West Coast

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

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.

 

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Find Your Perfect Activity

Hiking the Pack Track

Pack Track, West Coast Active & Adventure Walking & Hiking

4-6 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover a Hidden Gem: The Legendary Pack Track New Zealand First, are you searching for an unforgettable hiking experience tucked away from the crowded tourist hotspots? If so, you must explore the lush rainforests and rugged coastline of the West Coast. Specifically, deep within Paparoa National Park lies a route steeped in rich history and

Franz Josef Glacier

West Coast of South Island Walking & Hiking

2-3 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover the Frozen Wonder: Your Guide to a Franz Josef Glacier Tour The Franz Josef Glacier is a magnificent natural wonder nestled within a lush temperate rainforest. As one of New Zealand’s most accessible glaciers, it offers visitors a truly unique opportunity to witness glacial activity up close. Whether you are an avid hiker or

Punakaiki Farewell Dinner

Punakaiki, West Coast, New Zealand Food & Wine

2-3 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

A memorable farewell dinner experience in Punakaiki, nestled along New Zealand’s dramatic West Coast. Enjoy exceptional local cuisine while surrounded by the area’s renowned natural wonders, including the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes, making for an unforgettable final gathering. Duration Standard Dinner Service: 2-3 hours Private Event Option: 3-4 hours (includes welcome drinks and extended

Punakaiki Beach Sunset Cocktail Experience

West Coast, South Island, New Zealand Food & Wine Nature Wildlife & Beaches

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Drinks at Sunset on Punakaiki Beach offer a magical experience on New Zealand’s wild West Coast. As the sun sets over the Tasman Sea, watch the sky transform into hues of orange, pink, and gold while enjoying a refreshing drink. With the dramatic limestone cliffs and famous Pancake Rocks as a backdrop, this is the

Ship Creek Coastal Discovery Tour

West Coast, South Island, New Zealand Walking & Hiking

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover the Raw Beauty of Ship Creek on New Zealand’s West Coast First, are you looking for a truly hidden gem on your New Zealand road trip? If so, you absolutely must visit Ship Creek. Located on the spectacular West Coast of the South Island, this destination offers a stunning mix of wild beaches, lush

Okarito Lagoon Kayaking

1 The Strand, Ōkārito 7886, New Zealand Active & Adventure Boat Cruises & Water Activities

1.5 - 2 hours

Price:Included in your tour package

Paddle Through Paradise: Okarito Lagoon Kayaking Glide through New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland. Here, mirror-like waters reflect snow-capped peaks. Ancient kahikatea forests also meet the sea at this stunning location. Okarito Lagoon sits nestled on the wild West Coast of the South Island. It offers an unforgettable kayaking experience across 3,240 hectares of pristine coastal

Hokitika Glass Studio: Where Art Meets Fire

9 Weld Street, Hokitika 7810 Heritage & Art

1 hour

Price:Included in your tour package

A Visitor’s Guide to New Zealand’s Premier Glassblowing Experience Nestled in the heart of Hokitika, New Zealand’s historic gold rush town and artistic hub, the Hokitika Glass Studio offers visitors a mesmerizing glimpse into the ancient art of glassblowing. This working studio showcases the transformation of molten glass into stunning pieces of art, making it

West Coast Wildlife Centre

Cnr Cron and, Cowan Street, Franz Josef / Waiau 7886 Wildlife & Beaches

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The West Coast Wildlife Centre is an award-winning conservation and tourism attraction in Franz Josef, offering a fascinating look at some of New Zealand’s rarest wildlife. This unique indoor facility is the official hatching and rearing site for the endangered Rowi and Haast tokoeka kiwi birds. Perfect for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and eco-conscious travelers, the

Zipline and Walk Combo

1128 Woodstock-Rimu Road, Hokitika, New Zealand Ziplining

2 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The Zipline and Walk Combo combines the adrenaline of soaring through the treetops on a zipline with the serenity of a guided nature walk. This unique experience takes you deep into New Zealand’s lush forests, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views, learn about native flora and fauna, and feel the thrill of zipping through the canopy.

Skydive Franz Josef Glacier: New Zealand’s Iconic Alpine Scenery

Franz Josef Glacier Active & Adventure

3 Hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The Skydive Franz Josef Glacier offers one of the most scenic and exhilarating skydiving experiences in the world. Freefall from heights of up to 20,000 feet above the stunning West Coast, with breathtaking views of Franz Josef Glacier, the Southern Alps, lush rainforests, and the Tasman Sea. Perfect for adventure seekers and bucket-list enthusiasts, this