Things to Do in West Coast New Zealand

Northern West Coast :: Things to Do in Glacier Country

Things to Do in West Coast New Zealand: You haven’t experienced New Zealand until you’ve met “a Coaster” and traveled the 600km coastline from Karamea in the north to Jackson Bay in the south. Nestled between the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea “The Coast” is indeed spectacular with its rugged beauty and ever-present past. Gold mining, forests, and coal mining are part and parcel of the history of the West Coast. Explore the enchanting forests, walk along the wild west beaches, and experience firsthand nature’s awesome glaciers.

Experience West Coast Region

Five of New Zealand’s 13 National Parks
UNESCO World Heritage Area
Wild Tasman Sea
Native red ratas and yellow kowhai
Whitebait Fritters

You´ll these great things to see & do…

Visit Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes
Have a beer with a Coaster in a local pub
Go gold panning
Explore the National Parks
Get up close to the glaciers on a guided trip – Fox and Franz Josef glaciers
Rejuvenate in the hot pools at Franz Josef
Pan for gold at Shantytown
Watch pounamu (jade) carvers create fine jewellery
Ty to spot kotuku, the graceful white heron
Listen to birdsong in a remote rainforest

Useful West Coast Region Resources

West Coast Official Site

Things to Do in West Coast New Zealand: The West Coast of New Zealand is sparsely populated and known for its scenic beauty. It boasts stunning coastlines, mountains, and lush bushes, while the rainforest adds to its natural allure. Heavy rainfall is typical in this region, contributing to the flourishing of the land.

The West Coast is home to various industries, such as coal mining, forestry, wood processing, fishing, farming, and tourism. Dairy farming is a popular industry in New Zealand, while the manufacturing of greenstone jewelry thrives as well. All these industries have contributed to the growth of the regional economy, thereby contributing to the wealth of New Zealand.

Tourists can see rare birds, such as the coasters. The local people are known for their hospitality and friendly approach towards visitors.

The West Coast boasts must-see attractions such as Pancake Rocks and Blowholes for tourists. Pancake rocks are unique for their thin, horizontal layers with varying thickness. In short, the West Coast and its beautiful glaciers creeping into the rainforests play a unique role in the life of New Zealand and its inhabitants.