West Coast
West Coast

West Coast

The West Coast region boasts five of New Zealand's fourteen national parks making it a nature lovers paradise. It is a land of extreme topography, from the dense rainforests to the serene lakes, from the glaciers to the rugged coastline this place is nothing short of spectacular.

Fox Glacier

Many of the towns were born in the last century, during the gold rush. Greymouth, which is largest town on the West Coast, is one such place. Walks on the outskirts of town lead to many historic relics from 150 years of gold, timber,and coal extraction.

A 20 minute drive south of Greymouth is Shantytown, a reconstructed 1880s gold town where you can try your hand at gold panning.

The famous Monteiths Brewery is found in Greymouth (since 1868) and offers tours along with a formal tasting of each style of beer.

North of Greymouth is the stunning Lake Brunner, famous as a great brown trout fishing spot. The lake makes a great place for family holidays with pinics by the lake and stunning bush walks.

Haast Pass Blue Pool

Punakaiki is most famous for the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes (internationally recognised as one of New Zealand's visitor icons).

Nikau

Karamea is a secluded haven found in the warm northern corner of the West Coast. Karamea and the surrounding area is a nature wonderland, and is the beginning (or end) of the world famous Heaphy Track and Kahurangi National Park.

 

Must see places in the West Coast:

  • Fox Glacier
  • Franz Josef
  • Greymouth
  • Haast
  • Hokitika
  • Punakaiki
  • Westport