Off the Beaten Track to... the West Coast
The West Coast of New Zealand's South Island is one of the most remote and sparsely populated regions in the country with a reputation not only for its wildness, but the warm welcome offered by the local 'Coasters' or 'Westies'. The area has wild coastlines, huge mountains and a large area of native rainforest and is often seen as a haven for adventure sports enthusiasts for activities such as kayaking, caving, canyoning, glacier hiking, hunting, jet boating and rafting.
However, for those with less wild inclinations, there are also enjoyable, easy-to-do recreational activities, which lead one off the beaten track into the beautiful environment of the West Coast. We've picked out some of the activities that offer visitors of all ages and mobility levels a great taste of the area.
Things To Do
West Coast
Photographer: Rob Suisted
(www.naturespic.com)
- Cape Foulwind Walkway – Enjoy easy tracks to the seal colony and Cape Foulwind walkway situated on the coast about 16 kilometres south-west of Westport. (Tracks are one-way only).
- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes Walk – A 20-minute loop walk explores the stunning limestone landscape of so-called pancake rock formations, blowholes and surge pools. Children should be kept under close supervision.
- Lake Kaniere – Short walks suitable for all the family lead to picnic ares, waterfalls and ideal swimming beaches.
- Other Short Walks – All of these tracks and walks are easy and suitable for people of all abilities and fitness levels: Peters Pool Walk, Minnehaha Walk, Lake Matheson and Hokitika Gorge Walk.
- West Coast Culture and Heritage – Discover the West Coast's gold mining heyday and meet local jewellery-making, glass-blowing and textile artisans.
More Information
To help plan your holiday activities in the West Coast area of the South Island, simply choose from the main categories below:
