West Coast Regional Information

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Deemed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Area, the West Coast must be seen to be truly believed. This region combines natural, awe-inspiring beauty and history integral to the development of NZ. Tourist attractions abound in this region that stretches along the backbone of the South Island from Kahurangi National Park in the north to the quaint settlement of Haast in the south. We encourage you to enjoy New Zealand at its unspoilt best. Marvel in the glaciers that carve through the steep mountain gorges and the breath-taking views of lakes, native bush, rushing rivers and cascading waterfalls. Conversely, experience the long, lonely beaches that stretch for miles along the coastal highway. Take time out to watch the merciless sea pound the pebble beaches along the Coast. The largest area of protected land in New Zealand lies on the Coast. It contains five of New Zealand's 13 National Parks, and is a must see for those tourists interested in wildlife, flora and fauna. Tramp along the well built tracks and enjoy the facilities provided by Kahurangi, Paparoa, Arthurs Pass, Westland and Mt. Aspiring National Parks. Tramping can be arranged to meet the individual desires of the tourists and can be embarked upon in an unguided or guided manner. Parts of the Coast were settled in concentrated amounts in the 1870's after significant gold finds. Settled primarily by Irish and English settlers keen to make a quick fortune, the West Coast still reflects this heritage. Just south of the Coast's principle town, Greymouth, is Shanty Town. This unique attraction combines original and replica elements of the glory days of the golden age. Take the train from the settlement to the sawmill nestled amongst the native bush. Enter the historical buildings grouped around the tall spire of the Church, and witness some of the commercial success stories of New Zealand that originated on the Coast. On the back of the Gold Rush, original inhabitants turned to more intensive mining, primarily for coal. This enabled the gold-diggers to stay and the region to flourish with the influx of new settlers. European influences remain, as can be seen with the architecture of the towns that line the Coast. Add quality accommodation, fine cafes and restaurants, art and craft galleries and you'll know you are in paradise.

Enjoy Greymouth, reached by winding, mountainous roads that are an attraction in themselves. Greymouth is the major town of the West Coast, and is accordingly served by an airport as well as the superb Tranz Alpine rail service. It boasts a plethora of activities. For those with adventure in mind, go underwater caving, swim with the rare Hector dolphins or view the fur seals from a Boat Cruise. Just inland is Moana at Lake Brunner. Slow down here to partake in a picturesque bush walk once the impressive swing bridge over the River Arnold has been boldly crossed. Lake Brunner offers many aquatic pleasures, including fishing, boating, yachting, canoeing and water skiing. To the north lies historic Westport. The scenery around this town offers a treasure trove of beaches, wild rivers and placid streams. Truly diverse, Westport offers a variety of attractions for the tourist. Visit the seals and wildlife at Cape Foulwind, tramp the Charming Creek Walkway or test your limits while boating, surfing, mountain biking, caving, kayaking or horse trekking.

South of Greymouth along the beautiful coastal road lies the quaint township of Hokitika, famed worldwide for its Whitebait. The original hub of the Gold Rush, Hokitika embodies the essence of the classic West Coast. Thousands of tourists flock annually to this area for the Wild Food Festival. Greenstone, which attracted the early Maori, is now a feature of Hokitika's commercial activity. The gold mining tradition spills over into the neighbouring township of Ross, where a tourist can visit a working gold mine or pan for gold themselves. The Southern West Coast is a collection of rustic towns, monuments to the days gone by. All allow easy access to spectacular vistas of forests, rivers, mountains and sea. Harihari, noted as the landing place of the first trans- Tasman solo flight embodies the true charm of the Coast. A small dairy farming community, be welcomed by the locals and partake in the old log tramway, a relic of the once flourishing forestry industry. Whataroa is world reknowned for its wildlife sanctuary. Its most precious visitor is the White Heron or Kotuku, of which only 150 remain in the wild. This attraction is absolutely unique in the world and should not be missed. Boat rides from November to March allow visitors a closer look and greater information on the habits of the precious bird. Tourists should not miss out on the majesty of the Glaciers at Franz Josef and Fox. Descending over 2500 metres in just 13 kilometres. Well maintained roads service these glaciers and actual walks are enabled by hiring a guide. For those with a bigger budget, go on a helihike and treat yourself to the experience of the glaciers from both air and ground level. The tiny settlement of Haast signals the end of the magic Coast. The drive is inspiring, past rugged coastline and through brilliantly green native forest. Do not be scared to inhale the wonderfully fresh air, as a trip on the Coast is the essence of unspoilt life.