The West Coast (Te Tai Poutini) is where New Zealand goes wild. Stretching from Karamea in the north to Haast in the south, this rugged region is defined by towering mountains, untamed rainforest, crashing seas, and vast glaciers. It’s remote, raw, and unforgettable — a place of adventure and natural wonder at every turn.

🏔️ Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers

The stars of the West Coast are the Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier, two of the most accessible glaciers in the world.

• Heli-Hiking – Take a helicopter ride onto the ice for a guided glacier walk.

• Scenic Flights – Fly over the Southern Alps for jaw-dropping views.

• Valley Walks – Short walks give views of the glacier’s face from the valley floor.

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes

One of the Coast’s most famous natural wonders, the Pancake Rocks are layered limestone formations that look like stacks of pancakes. At high tide, the blowholes erupt dramatically as waves crash through hidden caves.

Hokitika Gorge

With its surreal turquoise waters and lush bush surrounds, the Hokitika Gorge is one of the most photogenic spots on the Coast. A short walk over swing bridges leads to stunning viewpoints and swimming holes.

🎨 Hokitika – Greenstone & Arts Town

Known as the pounamu (greenstone) capital, Hokitika is a must-visit for local carving studios and galleries. You’ll also find glassblowers, woodcarvers, and craft shops. Hokitika Beach is famous for its driftwood sign, and the town has a friendly, creative vibe.

🌄 Haast Pass & Wilderness Adventures

Heading south, Haast Pass offers some of New Zealand’s most remote wilderness. From thundering waterfalls like Thunder Creek Falls to jet boat rides on the Haast River, this area is wild and untamed.

🦌 West Coast Wildlife – Okarito & Beyond

The tiny settlement of Ōkārito is home to New Zealand’s rare white heron (kōtuku). Guided tours take you into the wetlands to spot them, alongside native birds and stunning coastal lagoons. Seal colonies and penguin-spotting opportunities also abound along the coastline.

🛶 Lake Matheson – The Mirror Lake

Near Fox Glacier, Lake Matheson is famous for its perfectly mirrored reflections of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit for postcard-worthy photos.

⛏️ Shantytown Heritage Park – Greymouth

Step back into the 19th century at Shantytown, a recreated gold rush village where you can pan for gold, ride a steam train, and learn about West Coast history. It’s a family favourite.

🚲 West Coast Wilderness Trail

This 132 km cycle trail runs between Greymouth and Ross, taking you past lakes, rivers, old tram lines, and lush rainforest. It can be ridden in sections or as a multi-day adventure. Bike hire and tour packages are widely available.

Karamea & The Oparara Arches

In the far north, Karamea is a hidden gem. The Oparara Basin features huge limestone arches, caves, and rainforest walks that feel otherworldly. It’s remote but worth the trip.

Wild West Coast Beaches

The coastline is dotted with windswept black-sand beaches and dramatic seascapes. Popular spots include Punakaiki Beach, Hokitika Beach, and Ship Creek near Haast. They’re perfect for storm-watching, sunsets, and beachcombing.

🎣 Fishing & Hunting

The West Coast is also known for its outdoor lifestyle — rivers and lakes offer excellent trout fishing, while the forests and backcountry attract hunters seeking red deer and wild pigs. Guided experiences are available for visitors keen to try.

🌟 Final Thoughts

The West Coast is raw, wild, and unforgettable. From hiking on glaciers and exploring limestone wonders to cycling through rainforest and relaxing by mirror lakes, it’s a region that delivers big adventure with a small-town heart.