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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

13 Best Things to Do in West Coast

1. Hike the Franz Josef Glacier

Experience stunning ice formations on a guided hike.

Seasonal

Adults only

Booking required

4 hrs

2. Visit the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks

Marvel at unique rock formations and blowholes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

3. Explore Abel Tasman National Park

Kayak and hike through breathtaking coastal scenery.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

6 hrs

4. Take a Scenic Drive on the West Coast

Enjoy stunning views along the rugged coastline.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Go Glowworm Caving in Waitomo

Witness magical glowworms in their natural caves.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

6. Visit the Hokitika Gorge

Explore turquoise waters and stunning natural landscapes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

7. Experience the West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail

Cycle through lush landscapes and stunning vistas.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

5 hrs

8. Discover the Art of the West Coast

Visit local galleries showcasing unique regional art.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

9. Relax at Punakaiki Beach

Enjoy a peaceful day at this beautiful beach.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

10. Visit the West Coast Treetop Walk

Walk among the treetops and enjoy scenic views.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

11. Explore the history at Shantytown

Experience the gold rush era in a living museum.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2.5 hrs

12. Visit the Cape Foulwind Seal Colony

Observe New Zealand fur seals in their natural habitat.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

13. Experience the local cuisine in Greymouth

Taste fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

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)