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


Siberia Experience - Fly - Walk & Jet Boat Adventure


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

Franz Josef Glacier Guided Heli Hike - The Ultimate Adventure


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

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.

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

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

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!

Wild Rivers Rafting on the Buller River - Murchison NZ


Wild Rivers Rafting offering half day whitewater rafting on this world renown Earthquake Section of the mighty Buller River,

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.

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

Quad Bike Off Road Adventure Tour Franz Josef


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

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.

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.

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

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.

Fox & Franz Josef Glacier Valley Eco Walks


Join Glacier Valley Eco Tours for a REAL nature tour in and around the Glacier Country on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand

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

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

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.