Sitting between the ocean and the towering Southern Alps, New Zealand’s West Coast really is like nowhere else on earth. Wild, rugged, and very scenic, it’s one of the South Island’s finest landscapes. See New Zealand as nature created it. Stretching over 600 kilometres, it boasts a staggering range of activities, as well as plenty of sightseeing and attractions. You can explore the area’s history, heritage, and culture making the West Coast an excellent all-round destination. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it along the spectacular West Coast! We have some amazing West Coast accommodation available in a variety of different locations, so come and explore this gorgeous part of the world.
Things to see and do
Driving along the scenic Great Coast Road is a favourite pastime for visitors who want to take in the varied landscapes and stop by local towns and villages along the coast. Some major destinations include the rocks and blowholes at Punakaiki, the
Fox Glacier and the
Franz Josef Glacier, the area’s largest town of
Greymouth, which is surrounded by dazzling lakes, laid-back Karamea, Westport, Hari Hari, and Haaf. Take a step back in time at Shantytown and imagine how it must have been during its heyday. Beaches, forests, cliffs, and mountains all add to the varied and interesting terrain that’s ready and waiting to inspire you.
Activities include hiking, climbing, mountain biking, horse riding, wildlife spotting, caving, fishing, panning for gold, and relaxing on sandy beaches. Take to the waters, sea and river for swimming, surfing, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, jet skiing, and boating, or go hiking and walking to admire the spectacular glaciers. Venture into an old mine and wander around eerie old ghost towns. At Westcoast Treetop Walk, you can take a stroll through the treetops and see the world below like a bird. Alternatively, take to the skies with a scenic pleasure flight to admire the wondrous landscapes below. There is a wide choice of places to eat and drink along the West Coast and locals are known for being welcoming and friendly.
Getting here
If all this sounds too good to be true, close your eyes, imagine you’re there, and then get your
flight to Christchurch booked and your West Coast hotel sorted with us to experience this magical region for yourself!
