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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!

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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. 

 

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Scenic Cruise

Frans Josef Scenic Cruise

Take a cruise on Lake Mapourika, the largest lake in Westland Tai Poutini National Park.

From $120.00

Fox Glacier: Up to 3 Hours Hike with Helicopter Transfer

Fox Glacier: Up to 3 Hours Hike with Helicopter Transfer

Enjoy this helicopter and hiking tour that combines the excitement of walking on Fox Glacier with the thrill of a helicopter flight. Land on a glacier and admire natural ice caves and arches.

From $655.00

Zipline & Walkway Combo

Zipline & Walkway Combo

The zipline challenge then begins from the take-off platform with a step of 47m or 15 storeys above the ground into the sky, which will sure to take your breath.

From $105.00

Kayak & Walk (4hr)

Kayak & Walk (4hr)

Paddle effortlessly across Lake Mapourika's mirror-like water, taking in the spectacular views of the Southern Alps and glaciers.

From $165.00

Greymouth: Monteith's Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting

Greymouth: Monteith's Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting

Enjoy a guided tour around the Monteith’s Brewery on the West Coast. Learn our heritage and about the craft of beer making, and get a hands-on tour through the brewery.

From $25.00

Franz Josef: 13,000ft, 16,500ft or 18,000ft Skydive

Franz Josef: 13,000ft, 16,500ft or 18,000ft Skydive

Experience the thrill of a skydive over Franz Josef as you jump with an experienced instructor. Enjoy views over dramatic mountains, stunning temperate rainforest, and glowing glaciers.

From $399.00

Franz Josef: Twin Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers Helicopter Trip

Franz Josef: Twin Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers Helicopter Trip

Helicopter over both the Twin Glacier Fox and Franz Josef glaciers for astounding views of the Southern Alps, Mount Cook, and Mount Tasman and experience a scenic snow landing.

From $420.00

Westcoast Treetop Walk & Cafe

Westcoast Treetop Walk & Cafe

An exhilarating treetop adventure among temperate rainforest giants. Experience life with the birds high in the ancient Rimu and Kamahi tree canopy.

From $36.00

Earnslaw Burn Explorer Helicopter Tour

Earnslaw Burn Explorer Helicopter Tour

This incredible helicopter experience takes you to our exclusive landing site – the mighty Earnslaw Burn and one other incredible landing location.

From $990.00

Greymouth: Glacier, Heritage & Wildlife Centre Guided Tour

Greymouth: Glacier, Heritage & Wildlife Centre Guided Tour

Climb the tower at Tree Tops, visit peaceful settlement Okarito, trek the popular Franz Josef Glacier valley walk. Marvel at the native New Zealand bird, the Kiwi and explore Franz Josef township.

From $299.00

Franz Josef: West Coast Wildlife Centre Entry Ticket

Franz Josef: West Coast Wildlife Centre Entry Ticket

Visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre in Franz Josef on the South Island. See live kiwi and tuatara and learn about the fantastic glaciers of the region.

From $40.00

Fox Glacier: Half Day Walking & Nature Tour with Local Guide

Fox Glacier: Half Day Walking & Nature Tour with Local Guide

Enjoy a gentle climb up the Fox Glacier valley and travel thorugh the rainforest in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Enjoy views of Mt Tasman while learning about local geology, flora, and fauna.

From $105.00

Kayak Classic (3hr)

Kayak Classic (3hr)

Enjoy 3 hours of gentle exercise and an unbeatable panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

From $145.00

Off-Road Adventure Tour

Off-Road Adventure Tour

Let us take you on an amazing, guided off-roading adventure!

From $205.00

Cruise & Nature Walk

Cruise & Nature Walk

Embark on a journey across the Lake and into the sheltered bays of the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary.

From $149.00

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IntercityBus

TRANSPORT & TOUR OPTIONS

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Christchurch to Franz Josef via Hokitika (One Way) inc TranzAlpine Train

Christchurch to Franz Josef via Hokitika (One Way) inc TranzAlpine Train

The West Coast of New Zealand offers a unique holiday experience, featuring scenic roads, breathtaking landscapes, and picturesque spots.

From $489.00

Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wānaka Small Group Tour (One Way)

Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wānaka Small Group Tour (One Way)

Experience the ultimate adventure from Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wānaka.

From $290.00

Franz Josef to Queenstown via Wānaka Small Group Tour (One Way)

Franz Josef to Queenstown via Wanaka Small Group Tour (One Way)

Franz Joseph to Queenstown via Wānaka

From $290.00

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TIPS & GUIDES

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YOUR BAGS!

We have our very own online store at Plango with hand-selected products to ensure you are prepared for your travels. From clothing and equipment to planners and car organisers.

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