New Zealand

In New Zealand, the 'West Coast' generally refers to the narrow strip of land between the South Island's Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea.

The West Coast is memorable for its mountain peaks, massive glaciers, bizarre limestone landscapes, mysterious lakes and raging rivers, lush rainforest and a magnificent, wild coastline. It's also memorable for its people - interesting, humorous, outdoorsy types who can tell you an interesting story or two if you have time to listen.

It is highly likely that glorious image of New Zealand you see in a book, calendar, magazine or poster is from the South Island's West Coast. It contains the largest area of protected land of any region in New Zealand and provides access to five of New Zealand's 13 national parks. The southern West Coast area has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its uniqueness and recognition as a 'special place' in the world.

To this amazing natural landscape you can add good accommodation, fine foods, festivals and first class local guides. You can raft an underground cave, hike over a glacier, kayak a stunning lake, pan for gold and taste the traditional West Coast delicacy, whitebait. The local brew's fine too. In the townships of Westport, Greymouth and Hokitika, you can learn about the West Coast's colourful past and shop for pounamu (greenstone or jade) - the local treasure that's only significant source within New Zealand is from the West Coast's raging mountain rivers. The Coast is one area of New Zealand you must never miss.

Westport - main town in Northern West Coast with nearby fur seal colony at Cape Foulwind

Greymouth - the major town on the West Coast and the terminus for the TranzAlpine rail journey from Christchurch

Hokitika - the other main centre in this area, the hub of the early gold rush
Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier - base camp for trips onto the glaciers

Haast - offers a range of local sights to break the journey when travelling from Queenstown or Wanaka

RETURN TO SOUTH ISLAND REGION