West Coast

New Zealand, Oceania

The West Coast of New Zealand is a wild and rugged paradise, famed for its dramatic landscapes, incredible fjords, and lush rainforests. Home to the iconic Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, this region offers unique hiking experiences and thrilling outdoor activities. Explore the stunning Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, rich Maori culture, and vibrant coastal towns. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, the West Coast is a place where you can truly escape into the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's wild side.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Region

Vibe

Active

Airport

Hokitika

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in West Coast

1

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Hike the Franz Josef Glacier

Experience stunning ice formations on a guided hike.

Booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks

Marvel at unique rock formations and blowholes.

No booking required
3

Est. 6 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Abel Tasman National Park

Kayak and hike through breathtaking coastal scenery.

Booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Scenic Drive on the West Coast

Enjoy stunning views along the rugged coastline.

No booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go Glowworm Caving in Waitomo

Witness magical glowworms in their natural caves.

Booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Hokitika Gorge

Explore turquoise waters and stunning natural landscapes.

No booking required
7

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail

Cycle through lush landscapes and stunning vistas.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Art of the West Coast

Visit local galleries showcasing unique regional art.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Punakaiki Beach

Enjoy a peaceful day at this beautiful beach.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the West Coast Treetop Walk

Walk among the treetops and enjoy scenic views.

Booking required
11

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the history at Shantytown

Experience the gold rush era in a living museum.

No booking required
12

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cape Foulwind Seal Colony

Observe New Zealand fur seals in their natural habitat.

No booking required
13

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the local cuisine in Greymouth

Taste fresh seafood and local delicacies.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

12 (#1 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Kiwi Pie

Savory pie with meat and vegetables. (National dish)

Hāngi

Traditional Māori dish cooked in earth oven.

Pavlova

V

Meringue dessert topped with fruit and cream.

Fish and Chips

Battered fish served with fries.

Lamingtons

V

Sponge cake coated in chocolate and coconut.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)