Things to do West Coast of the South Island

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Thing to See and Do on the South Island West Coast of NZ!

 

Unforgettable West Coast South Island: Glaciers, Rainforests & Adventure:

The West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island is a nature lover’s paradise. This 600km coastline, pounded by the Tasman Sea and backed by the Southern Alps, boasts five National Parks. Explore glaciers, lush rainforests, towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and wetlands. Look out for rare and endangered wildlife while experiencing the region’s rich Maori and European heritage.

Adventure Awaits: Glaciers, Hiking & Water Activities:

The West Coast is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike on Franz Josef Glacier or Fox Glacier, two easily accessible wonders. Kayak on tranquil lakes, jet boat down thrilling rivers, or explore hidden cave systems.

Charming Towns & Maori Culture:

Greymouth, the West Coast’s commercial hub, offers a glimpse into gold mining history and a refreshing Monteith’s brew. Further south, Hokitika, a vibrant town renowned for its greenstone (Pounamu) carving, boasts a range of craft galleries. Immerse yourself in Maori culture and connect with the region’s unique history.

Scenic Drives & Breathtaking Views:

Travel along the Great Coast Road, one of the world’s most scenic drives. Stop at Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, natural rock formations sculpted by time and tide. Discover hidden waterfalls and capture breathtaking vistas from scenic lookouts along the way.

Unwind & Experience South Island’s Local West Coast Delights:

Relax in natural hot springs, indulge in delicious local cuisine, or visit a traditional pub. The West Coast offers a range of experiences to complement your adventure.

Plan Your South Island West Coast Escape:

From heart-pounding activities to cultural exploration and relaxation, the West Coast caters to all. Browse a variety of West Coast South Island accommodation options and West Coast South Island activity providers to craft your perfect West Coast escape.

 

The Wst Coast offers some great accommodation to suit all budgets “Click Here”

Now scroll down for the best selection of things to do in this region.

 

Things to do on the West Coast, South Island


Wild Rivers Rafting on the Buller River - Murchison NZ


Experience Wild Rivers Rafting on Buller River’s famous Earthquake Section in Murchison NZ. Half-day whitewater adventure with expert guides awaits!

White Heron Sanctuary Guided Birdwatching, Whataroa


Visit New Zealand's only Kotuku, White Heron breeding ground! Learn about the majestic Kotuku and experience the magic of the protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve.

Franz Josef Glacier Guided Heli Hike - The Ultimate Adventure


Experience a helicopter ride and guided hike on Franz Josef Glacier. Explore stunning ice formations on New Zealand's most thrilling glacier adventure.

Franz Josef Quad Bike Tours – Off-Road Adventure on the West Coast!


Embark on an epic quad biking adventure at Franz Josef. Explore glacial rivers, rainforests & mountain views with Wilderness Adventure’s top-rated guided tours

Helicopter Scenic Flights Fox Glacier, Franz Josef


'Glacier Helicopters' provide scenic flights which include snow landings on the Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier & guided heli-hike adventures

Skydive Franz Josef Glacier NZ's Highest Jump


Skydive over Franz Josef Glacier! Experience the thrill of freefall with breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains & rainforest. Book your tandem skydive today!

Air Safaris Franz Josef & Mt. Cook Glacier Scenic Flights


Catch 'The Grand Traverse' flight from Lake Tekapo or Franz Josef & enjoy the flight of a lifetime where every seat has a window.

Fox & Franz Josef Glacier Walks – Scenic Eco Tours & Nature Hikes


Experience Franz Josef Glacier Eco Walks and Fox Valley tours. Family-friendly guided walks through rainforests, waterfalls, and stunning glacier country.

Wilkin River Jet Boat Rides & Backcountry Helicopter Flights


Let us take you on a personal wilderness journey deep into the ‘timeless land’ of  the Makarora and Wilkin River Valleys

Okarito Lagoon Guided Bird Watching Boat Tours


Experience the tremendous diversity of one of the West Coast's most pristine South Westland World Heritage area with Okarito Boat Tours

Underworld Cave Rafting Adventures & Glow Worms


Four cave & karst adventures to choose from including Underworld Cave Rafting, Adventure Caving, Glow-worm Cave Tour & Rainforest Train

Siberia Experience - Fly - Walk & Jet Boat Adventure


One of NZ’s best wilderness experiences with rugged mountains, glaciers, mountain lakes, hanging valleys & vast rainforests.

Tandem Skydive Fox Glacier Skydiving on the West Coast


A backdrop of the Southern Alps, glaciers, rain forest & the ocean. It's hard to imagine a better place to jump out of a plane than Franz Josef

Wilderness Tours Franz Josef Kayaking & Cruises


A scenic boat cruise or kayaking designed to let you enjoy the stunning landscapes & bird life of the West Coast

Hokitika Guided Scenic Tours West Coast


This tour gives the opportunity to experience the stunning scenery & attractions that lie between the Tasman Sea & the Southern Alps.

Franz Josef Glacier Boat Tours Lake Mapourika


A scenic boat cruise designed to let you enjoy the stunning landscapes & bird life of the West Coast with indoor and outdoor viewing platforms

West Coast Treetop Walk & Cafe. Hokitika


West Coast Treetop Walk offers an exhilarating treetop adventure set amongst the temperate rainforest giants on the stunning West Coast.

Franz Josef Glacier Scenic Flights & Guided Heli Hike


Come and explore the rugged West Coast of the South Island, where the mountains meet the sea and rainforests give way to Glaciers.

Queenstown, Franz Josef & Christchurch – Tours in Any Direction


Discover the best of New Zealand’s South Island with Cheeky Kiwi Tours from Queenstown to Franz Josef and Christchurch including TranzAlpine rail options.

Tree Top Zipline & Walkway Hokitika, West Coast


Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime at the West Coast Tower Zipline! This thrilling attraction is perfect for people of all ages, from 6 to 106 years old.

Shantytown Greymouth - A Recreated 1860's Gold Rush Town


Shantytown Heritage Park is a recreated 1860's gold-rush town that has a number of interesting interactive attractions & activities to suit all ages.

West Coast South Island FAQs – What to Know Before You Visit

What are the main natural attractions on New Zealand’s South Island West Coast?

The West Coast is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Highlights include the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, dense temperate rainforests, the Southern Alps, clear mountain lakes, rugged beaches, and extensive wetlands. It’s a nature lover’s paradise.

What activities can outdoor enthusiasts enjoy on the West Coast of South Island?

Adventure seekers can take on glacier hikes, heli-hiking, kayaking, jet boating, white-water rafting, skydiving, and caving. There are also excellent walking and cycling trails, perfect for exploring the varied terrain.

Which towns on the West Coast offer cultural experiences and history?

Greymouth provides insights into the region’s gold mining past and is home to the famous Monteith’s Brewery. Hokitika is known for its greenstone (pounamu) carving traditions, Māori culture, and local art galleries. Shantytown, near Greymouth, recreates a historic gold rush village.

What scenic drives and natural landmarks should visitors not miss on the West Coast?

One of the best drives in New Zealand is the Great Coast Road between Westport and Greymouth. Key stops include Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, Lake Matheson near Fox Glacier, and the viewpoints along Haast Pass.

How can visitors relax and enjoy local West Coast delights after outdoor adventures?

After a day of adventure, visitors can unwind in the hot pools at Franz Josef, enjoy local seafood and craft beers, or relax in cosy pubs and lodges that reflect the laid-back West Coast charm.

Are guided glacier hikes available on the West Coast?

Yes, guided glacier hikes are one of the most iconic experiences here. Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers both offer heli-hike adventures that combine a scenic helicopter ride with a guided walk across the glacier’s icy terrain.

Is the West Coast suitable for family-friendly activities?

Definitely! Families will enjoy attractions like the West Coast Treetop Walk in Hokitika, Shantytown Heritage Park, easy rainforest walks, scenic boat cruises, and glowworm cave tours. Many guided tours cater to children and offer safe, educational experiences.