West Coast
WELCOME TO THE
Te Tai Poutini
TRAVEL TIPS & HIGHLIGHTS -------- Best Time To Travel -------- Spring (Sept-Nov): Ideal for blooming landscapes and hikes. Summer (Dec-Feb): Great for glacier walks and beach days. -------- How to Get Here -------- Fly into Christchurch & drive via Arthur’s Pass. North Island: Fly into Auckland/Wellington, rent a car, and take the ferry. -------- Key Highlights -------- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks: Iconic rock formations. Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers: Glacier hikes and helicopter tours. Hokitika Gorge: Stunning blue waters. -------- Things To Do -------- Day tours: Explore Fox Glacier, Franz Josef, Punakaiki, Greymouth, and Hokitika. Adventures: Hike glaciers, skydive, or cave tour. Learn more and book activities below - we can't wait to see you!
THE WILD BEAUTY OF NEW ZEALAND'S WEST COAST
The West Coast of New Zealand is renowned for its rugged beauty, with highlights like the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, lush rainforests, and the striking Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. This natural wonder, with its unique rock formations and blowholes, is a must-see stop for travelers exploring the coast. Known for its wild landscapes, the West Coast is perfect for adventure seekers, offering activities such as glacier hikes, jet boating, and wildlife encounters. The largest town, Greymouth, offers a glimpse into the region's rich gold-mining history and serves as a great base for exploring the area.
When planning where to stop on the West Coast, don't miss Hokitika, famed for its greenstone (pounamu) carvings and the stunning blue waters of Hokitika Gorge, as well as the tranquil Lake Matheson for breathtaking reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook. Punakaiki is another essential stop, with its fascinating Pancake Rocks and blowholes.