The West Coast - untamed natural wilderness

The West Coast of the South Island and the Great Coast Road is a treasure trove of outdoor delights; rainforests, lakes, glaciers and wild seas. It's perfect for hiking, biking and surfing.

You can't miss Franz Josef Glacier. Towering over the lush rainforest of the Westland Tai Poutini National Park, this giant features caves, tunnels and crevasses you can explore on a guided tour or from a scenic flight above. 

Follow the twists and turns of the Great Coast Road to see more of this vast region and the buckk list experiences on offer. Wild seas, Great Walks, pioneer history and local crafts abound up and down the coast.

at a glance

Best known for

'Coasters' warm hospitality

Did you know

you can learn to carve Pounamu in Hokitika

Don't leave without

Getting up close and personal with a Glacier

stories

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Nearby Hostels

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YHA Westport

YHA Westport TripInn Hostel is a unique backpacker hostel due to its history as a stately gentlemen's residence. The architecture and friendly staff create an atmosphere not seen in many hostels.

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YHA Wanaka

YHA Wanaka's central location boasts views of the lake and mountains. Cosy and sociable, this is the ideal backpacker hostel for discovering all of Wanaka's activities and adventures.

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