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In addition to some fabulous scenery, the West Coast is also steeped in history. It was the location of a gold rush in the 1860s and mining for gold and coal continues to the present day.
Here are ten highlights from the West Coast. They are listed approximately south to north; this is the better direction to head in if you are traveling here as it gives you closer views of the sea from the road.
1. Franz Josef or Fox Glacier
These are amongst the most accessible glaciers in the world and are unique in their close proximity to the coast. They lie on the western side of the Southern Alps and are two of the largest of the hundreds of glaciers in the mountains. Take a walk (guided or unguided) or flight (including landing on the glacier itself.
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2. Hokitika Gorge Walk
This lovely short walk inland from Hokitika explores a picturesque area of the Hokitika river.
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3. TranzAlpine Rail Journey
One of the great rail journeys of the world, this travels from Christchurch to Greymouth through Arthurs Pass. It crosses the main divide of the Southern Alps, with spectacular views of both coasts.
The trip takes four and a half hours each way so makes a good day trip.
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4. Trout Fishing in Lake Brunner
One of the many lakes in the West Coast region, Lake Brunner is renowned for some of the best trout fishing in New Zealand. The lake is situated 37 kilometers/23 miles inland from Greymouth.
5. Greymouth to Westport Coastal Drive
This has been rated one of the finest coastal drives in the world. With wide and sweeping views of the sea and coastline on one side and the mountains and forests on the other, this is certainly a memorable trip. The journey is 100 kilometers/62 miles. Allow an hour and twenty minutes, excluding stops.
6. Pancake Rocks, Punakaiki
Halfway between Greymouth and Westport, along the coastal route, is one of New Zealand's best-known natural attractions. The erosion of limestone over millions of years has created a unique formation of rocks and blowholes that resemble 'stacked' pancakes.7. Denniston Coal Mine
Established in the 1880s, this was for many years the largest coal mine in New Zealand. Today it can still be visited as part of a guided tour. The trip includes a ride on the original narrow gauge train, an engineering marvel in itself. There is also a walk into the old mines - a unique experience.
8. Westport to Karamea Drive
This is another beautiful scenic route, passing through some of the most pristine forest on the West Coast. Karamea is the northernmost settlement on the West Coast. There is no onward road so you will need to return to Westport. However, the journey is less than 100 kilometers/62 miles each way so it is easily covered in a day.9. Heaphy Track
The Heaphy Track is one of the Nine Great Walks of New Zealand. The start of the track is just north of Karamea. The walk takes between four and six days and ends at Golden Bay, 156 kilometers/97 miles from Nelson. The scenery is hugely varied, from beech forests, rivers and streams to the beaches of the western coastline.
10. Buller Gorge
The Buller Gorge follows the Buller River and is the northern access route between the West Coast and Nelson. The first section from Westport to Murchison follows a deep canyon alongside the river, with great views of the river and surrounding forest.Driving the West Coast
The best way to explore the West Coast is by car. Use my West Coast driving tour to plan your trip and see as many of these sights as you can.
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