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.
All South Island Regions
Christchurch – Canterbury Dunedin & Otago Fiordland Kaikoura & Hanmer Springs Marlborough Nelson Tasman Southland Stewart Island Mount Cook & Mackenzie Queenstown New Zealand Wanaka West CoastFind Your Perfect Activity
Lake Mapourika Kayaking
Lake Mapourika Active & Adventure Boat Cruises & Water Activities
3 hours
Price:Included in your tour package
The Ultimate Guide to a Lake Mapourika Kayak Adventure A Lake Mapourika kayak tour is undoubtedly the best way to see New Zealand’s rugged West Coast. Located just seven minutes north of Franz Josef, this lake offers a serene escape into a prehistoric landscape. In fact, it is the largest lake in the region, yet
Lake Mapourika Scenic Cruise
Lake Mapourika Boat Cruises & Water Activities
2 hours
Price:Included in your tour package
Discover the Mirror Beauty of Lake Mapourika New Zealand Lake Mapourika New Zealand is the largest and most stunning mirror lake in the South Island’s southwest region. Located just seven minutes from the Franz Josef township, this kettle lake offers a peaceful escape into nature. Because the surrounding mountain peaks shield the water from the
Quad Biking – Franz Josef Glacier Village
Franz Josef Glacier Village, New Zealand Off-road Driving Family & Kids Active & Adventure
2 hours
Price:Included in your tour package
Adventure Awaits: The Ultimate Franz Josef Quad Bike Tour If you want an adrenaline-packed way to explore the West Coast, a franz josef quad bike tour is the perfect choice. Located in the remote Franz Josef Glacier Village, this journey offers a beautiful backdrop of the majestic Southern Alps. Specifically, you will experience a
Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Hike
The Franz Josef Glacier Active & Adventure Scenic Flights Walking & Hiking
4 hours
Price:Included in your tour package
The Ultimate Adventure: The Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Hike Are you ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the heart of New Zealand’s West Coast? The Franz Josef glacier helicopter hike stands out as one of the most thrilling ways to explore a world-class natural wonder. This journey combines a scenic flight with a guided trek
Fox Trail Terminal Face Walk
Fox Glacier, New Zealand Active & Adventure Walking & Hiking
2 hours
Price:Included in your tour package
Witness the Power of Nature: The Fox Trail Terminal Face Walk If you want to see the raw beauty of a glacier without a strenuous hike, the Fox Trail Terminal Face Walk provides the perfect solution. This informative and leisurely trip takes you directly to the dynamic face of the Fox Glacier. Because the path
Shantytown Heritage Park
Rutherglen Road, Paroa Heritage & Art City Tours Family & Kids
90 minutes
Price:Included in your tour package
Relive the Gold Rush: A Guide to Shantytown Heritage Park If you want to step back into the wild days of the 1860s, Shantytown Heritage Park offers an immersive journey into New Zealand’s pioneer past. This faithfully recreated town sits nestled within 500 acres of lush, regenerative native rainforest. Because the park captures the true
Glacier Scenic Flight, West Coast
Franz Josef and Fox Glacier Scenic Flights
2 hours
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Experience the Majesty: Your Guide to a Glacier Scenic Flight A Glacier Scenic Flight from Franz Josef or Fox Glacier will undoubtedly take your breath away. While many explore the West Coast from the ground, you will soon discover that the stunning views of New Zealand’s National Parks, glaciers, and alpine lakes look best from
Glacier Hot Pools – Private Pools
Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools & Health Spas Family & Kids
Flexible
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Revitalize Your Senses at Glacier Hot Pools New Zealand Nestled deep within a lush rainforest, Glacier Hot Pools New Zealand serves as a haven of natural tranquility. It offers the perfect way for visitors to unwind and reach a blissful state of pure relaxation. Whether you have spent the day traveling along Te Tai o
‘Fox Trot’ Guided Walk
Fox Glacier Active & Adventure Walking & Hiking
Half day
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Fox Trot: Half-Day Glacier Walk – A Scenic Eco-Adventure Perfect for those with limited time, the Fox Trot Half-Day Walk offers an unforgettable eco-adventure on the stunning Fox Glacier. This guided experience is full of variety, natural beauty, and geological wonder. The Journey Begins Your adventure starts with being outfitted in sturdy leather boots
Fox Trail: Fox Glacier Guided Walk
Fox Glacier, West Coast Active & Adventure
2 hours
Price:Included in your tour package
Fox Glacier Guided Walk: The Terminal Face Experience Experience the raw power of nature on our premier Fox Glacier guided walk. This informative and leisurely tour takes you to the dynamic face of the glacier, where the mighty Fox River emerges from the ice. It is the perfect choice for travelers with limited time or

