Find things to do on the West Coast

Fox Glacier, West Coast.

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Things to do

Tohu Whenua: Historic Reefton

In 1888 Reefton became the first place in the southern hemisphere to have commercial electric lighting, beating posh suburbs in New York and London. Read the story . . . 

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Get outdoors

South Westland: a wonder of the world

The bottom left-hand corner of our little country, South Westland, is a world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage area. Read the story . . . 

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Road trips

Must Do's: South Island Road Trips Travel Guide

Start planning your next road trip with great attractions, accommodation and things to see and do in the South Island with our full 2022 Must-Do's travel guide. Read or download it here! Read the story . . . 

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Walking

Walk above the treetops in Hokitika

Climb the Hokitika Tower – one of the tallest human-made structures on the South Island’s West Coast.  Read the story . . . 

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The Blue Pools of Haast Pass

Māori knew about the glacial defile between the coastal flats of South Westland and the high tussock-land surrounding the southern lakes from their expeditions in search of pounamu.  Read the story . . . 

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Activities

Adventure time: Franz Josef heli hike

While there are short walks that take you to the base of Franz Josef Glacier, the only way to actually set foot on the ice is via helicopter.  Read the story . . . 

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Road trips

Great Coast Road: roadtripping at its best

Drive the length of the South Island, skirting the West Coast and traversing through the Southern Alps, and experience bountiful roadtripping at its very best. Read the story . . . 

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Things to do

Tohu Whenua: Waiuta

Waiuta is hands-down the West Coast’s best gold mining ghost town. The gravel road to get there may be long and winding, but once you emerge from the forest it’s like you’ve discovered a lost world.  Read the story . . . 

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Walking

Walk to Cape Foulwind

Cape Foulwind does not live up to its name. Read the story . . . 

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Get outdoors

Lake Matheson: the perfect mirror

If you find yourself on the West Coast in a reflective mood, you’ll also find you’re in good company. Read the story . . . 

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Get outdoors

Ōpārara Basin: limestone caves with cathedral-like passages and magnificent arches

Discover pristine rainforest, limestone caves with cathedral-like passages and magnificent, magical arches at the Ōpārara Basin in Kahurangi National Park. Read the story . . . 

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Get outdoors

Relax in the soothing natural pools at Maruia Hot Springs

Whether you’re visiting Maruia Hot Springs for the day or staying overnight, you can immerse yourself in the mineral-rich water amongst the mountains, or be pampered with a day spa experience.  Read the story . . . 

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