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.