Ovg PDF Version

Official
Visitor
Guide
2013/14
www.westcoastnz.com
OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014
WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS1
Picton
Nelson
Blenheim
Karamea
WESTPORT
REEFTON GOLD
Reefton
GREAT COAST ROAD

Punakaiki
Front cover image

by Petr Hlavacek
Back cover image
by Stephen Roberts
Lake
Brunner LAKES
DISTRICT
GREYMOUTH
JADE COUNTRY
Hokitika
Christchurch
GLACIER COUNTRY
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
Greymouth
Westport
Wanaka
Reefton
Queenstown
Picton
Punakaiki
Nelson
Karamea
Milford Sound
Kaikoura
Hokitika
Haast
Queenstown
281km
4:00
Franz Josef
Wanaka
Fox Glacier
GATES OF HAAST
Haast
Jacksons
Bay
Christchurch
FOX16
395km
5:40
23km 418km
20 min 6:00
Fox Glacier Guiding New Zealand
200km 177km 258km

2:40
2:20
3:40
317km 122km 148km 535km

4:30
1:45
2:05
7:40
40km
35min
156km 133km 268km

2:15
1:55
3:50
369km 710km 338km

550km 183km
573 8:10
5:15
10:10
4:50
7:50
2:30
430km 235km 512km 196km 392km 373km 427km

5:45
3:10
6:30
2:40
5:00
4:55
5:30
995km 956km 820 km 539km 860km 650km 678km 773km

12:10 13:40 11:45
7:40
12:15
9:20
9:40
11:00
1146km 317km 245km 330km 609km 290km 490km 469km 424km

16:20
4:00
3:30
4:45
8:40
4:10
7:00
6:40
6:00
110km 1108km 380km 157km 392km 671km 352km 554km 531km 336km
1:30
15:50
4:50
2:15
5:30
9:30
5:00
7:55
7:35
4:50
327km 264km 844km 151km 376km

3:50
3:10
10:10
2:10
4:30
84km
1:10
361km
4:30
45km
50min
242km 222km 285km

3:10
2:50
3:45
120km 272km 209km 878km 174km 255km 116km 394km

1:30
3:20
2:40
10:30
2:30
3:15
1:30
4:50
78km
60min
273km 255km 254km

3:30
3:10
3:10
603km 570km 822km 910km 291km 721km 669km 543km 262km 583km 381km 404km 486km
7:20
7:00
11:45 13:00
4:10
9:00
9:30
7:45
3:45
8:20
5:25
5:45
6:55
117km 535km 502km 773km 848km 394km 653km 607km 426km 145km 469km 264km 287km 424km
1:40
6:20
6:00
11:00 12:00
5:40
8:00
8:40
6:00
2:05
6:40
3:45
4:05
6:05
558km 664km
8:00
9:30
79km
1:00
56km
45min
288km 226km 951km

4:00
3:15
13:30
95km
1:30
340km 141km 437km 101km 300km 277km 333km

4:50
2:00
6:15
1:25
4:15
3:55
4:45
2 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014
Must-dos
Visit the Oparara Valley in Karamea - home to
Australasias largest limestone arches.
Explore Denniston Plateau enjoy the spectacular
views and mining history high up on the Plateau
before venturing underground for a true coal mining
experience.
Drive the Great Coast Road Westport to Greymouth voted one of the top 10 coastal drives in the world by
Lonely Planet.
Travel on the TranzAlpine Train between Greymouth and
Christchurch - one of the top 6 train journeys in the
world.
Carve your own piece of Pounamu in Hokitika, home to
New Zealands finest pounamu or jade.
Experience the West Coast Treetop Walkway walk
amongst the forest giants at the Coasts newest tourist
attraction
Enjoy a glacier experience at either Franz Josef or Fox
Glacier two of the most accessible Glaciers in the
world.
View kiwis at one of our West Coast Centres Franz
Josef, Hokitika or Okarito, where you will find the
Okarito Brown Kiwi (Rowi).
West Coast Events

JAN Kumara Horse Races

Driftwood & Sand Beach Sculpture Festival,
Hokitika
FEB Speights Coast to Coast

Buller Marathon Westport
MAR Wildfoods Festival, Hokitika

Art in the Park, Greymouth
APR Around Brunner Cycle Ride

Westport Performing Arts Festival May

B
uller Country Music Awards August

First Light Festival, Reefton
OCT Greymouth Motorcycle Street Race
NOV Coast Road Cycle Race
Welcome
The West Coast of the Southern Alps is a
truly unique destination. With spectacular
scenery and real Kiwi characters you will
experience the kind of holiday that will leave
you wanting more.
Stretching 600km from rainforest in the north to
glaciers and majestic landscapes in the south so awe
inspiring UNESCO named it a world heritage area; the
West Coast offers something for everyone.
Only 70km at its widest point there are beach and
forest walks to suit all ages and abilities, eco tourism
experiences, caving, rafting, canoeing and kayaking,
surfing, jet boating, jet skiing, glacier walks, scenic
flights, mountain biking, horse treks, river and sea
fishing, gold panning and exploring the old gold and
coal mines and ghost towns. Need we say more - you
need to spend a while to truly discover the West Coast.
Discover Nikau palms and semi tropical fruit trees in
the north to ice, snow and temperate rainforests in
the south. In between are wild coastlines, deserted
beaches, dense forests of giant trees, ferns and
mosses, big rivers and little creeks, lakes to boat on
and walk around, glaciers to explore and the lofty snow
covered mountains that form the Southern Alps.
The West Coast is the birthplace of pounamu the
precious New Zealand greenstone or jade can be found
throughout the region at galleries and shops where
you can watch the carvers at work. The region is also
famous for its world-class artists and craftspeople.
Best of all enjoy the people you meet along the way
for true Kiwi hospitality you cant go past a Coaster.
It takes a while to do the West Coast justice but the
journey is definitely the best bit.
www.westcoastnz.com
Visitor Information
Centres
KARAMEA INFORMATION CENTRE
Market Cross, Karamea
tel: +64 3 782 6652 fax: +64 3 782 6654 e:info@karameainfo.co.nz

www.karameainfo.co.nz
WESTPORT i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE

1 Brougham Street, Westport
tel: +64 3 789 6658 fax: +64 3 789 6668 e:westport.info@xtra.co.nz

www.westport.org.nz
REEFTON i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE

67 - 69 Broadway, Reefton
tel: +64 3 732 8391 fax: +64 3 732 8616 e:reefton@i-site.org

www.reefton.co.nz
PAPAROA NATIONAL PARK DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION

i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE
Contents
MUST-DOS
4
WEST COAST EVENTS
4
WELCOME5
VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES
6
Getting there
11
West Coast Heritage Sites
13
Biking & Walking
17
16
18
BIKING ON THE WEST COAST

WEST COAST WALKS
The Northern West Coast & Buller
21
WESTPORT
23
WESTPORT TO KARAMEA
26
KARAMEA29
The Great Coast Road
Main Road, SH6, Punakaiki
tel: +64 3 731 1895 fax: +64 3 731 1896 e:paparoavc@doc.govt.nz
33
WESTPORT TO PUNAKAIKI
34
PUNAKAIKI37
PUNAKAIKI TO GREYMOUTH
39
GREYMOUTH i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE
Reefton Gold
tel: +64 3 768 5101 fax: +64 3 768 0317 e:vingm@minidata.co.nz

www.greydistrict.co.nz
REEFTON
WESTPORT TO GREY VALLEY VIA REEFTON
The Historic Railway Station, 164 Mackay street, Greymouth
WEST COAST TRAVEL CENTRE AND i-SITE

The Historic Railway Station, 164 Mackay Street, Greymouth
tel: +64 3 768 7080 fax: +64 3 768 7090 e:info@westcoasttravel.co.nz

www.westcoasttravel.co.nz
ARTHURS PASS NATIONAL PARK DEPARTMENT OF

CONSERVATION VISITOR CENTRE
Main Road, SH73, Arthurs Pass Village
tel: +64 3 318 9211 fax: +64 3 318 9093 e:arthurspassvc@doc.govt.nz
HOKITIKA i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE

36 Weld Street, Hokitika
tel: +64 3 755 6166 fax: +64 3 755 5011 e:enquiries@hokitikainfo.co.nz

www.hokitika.org
FRANZ JOSEF DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION i-SITE

VISITOR CENTRE
Main Road, SH6, Franz Josef
tel: +64 3 752 0796 fax: +64 3 752 0797 e:westlandnpvc@doc.govt.nz

www.glaciercountry.co.nz
HAAST ARAWUA DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION VISITOR

CENTRE
Junction SH6 & Jackson Bay Road, Haast
tel: +64 3 750 0809 fax: +64 3 750 0832 e:haastvc@doc.govt.nz
41
43
45
Greymouth and the Grey District
47
THE GREY VALLEY
48
GREYMOUTH51
GREYMOUTH TO KUMARA
57
The Lakes District
59
LAKE BRUNNER & MOANA
61
GETTING TO CHRISTCHURCH VIA LAKE BRUNNER, OTIRA AND
ARTHURS PASS
64
Jade Country
67
CHRISTCHURCH TO HOKITIKA VIA KUMARA
68
HOKITIKA71
POUNAMU/NEW ZEALAND JADE
74
HOKITIKA TO GLACIER COUNTRY VIA WHATAROA
76
Glacier Country
79
80
83
93
98
WHATAROA AND OKARITO

FRANZ JOSEF
FOX GLACIER
FOX GLACIER TO HAAST
The Gates of Haast

HAAST & JACKSON BAY
HAAST TO WANAKA
101
103
107
It takes a while but the

journey is the best bit
FROM THE HIGHEST OF MOUNTAINS AND STUNNING

COASTAL SCENERY TO ABUNDANT RAINFORESTS AND
ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN YOURE JUST
SPOILT FOR CHOICE ALL OF THE WAY.
The majestic mountains of the Southern Alps have made the West Coast
the unique destinations it is providing its abundant resources and
spectacular scenery.
As the mountains began forming millions of years ago they produced
precious gold and pounamu (New Zealand Jade) deposits that brought
Maori and pioneers to the region and gave birth to the Coasts rich
history. Nature also carved dramatic glacial valleys to form two of the
worlds most accessible glaciers.
Only 70km at its widest point the West Coast is sandwiched between
the sea and mountains including New Zealands two highest, Aoraki/
Mt Cook and Mt Tasman. In between there are beach and forest walks
to suit all ages and abilities, eco tourism experiences, caving, rafting,
canoeing and kayaking, surfing, jet boating, jet skiing, glacier walks,
scenic flights, mountain biking, horse treks, river and sea fishing, gold
panning and historic ghost towns.
Need we say more. It takes a while to do the West Coast justice but the
journey is definitely the best bit.
KIWIRAIL
www.kiwirailscenic.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 872 467

tel: 0800 trains e: bookings@kiwirailscenic.co.nz
The TranzAlpine is rated as one of the worlds best
train journeys, travelling from one coast of New
Zealand to the other, over the spectacular Southern
Alps. Experience spectacular views of dramatic
alpine landscapes; snow-capped mountain peaks,
thrilling viaducts, braided rivers, and sub-tropical
rain forests. Enjoy all of this from the comfort of
world class carriages featuring panoramic sky
view windows, an on board licensed caf, GPS
triggered commentary, and open air viewing.
Getting
there
By Air
ATOMIC TRAVEL
www.atomictravel.co.nz
Service available in, Greymouth
FREEPH: 0508 108 359 fax: +64 3 349 3868

e: info@atomictravel.co.nz
Economic travel daily between Greymouth & Christchurch via the scenic
alpine route of Arthurs Pass. Departs Christchurch 07:30am, Greymouth
1:30pm. Connections North & South of Greymouth available.
Regular daily services between Christchurch - Hokitika and

Westport - Wellington are available with Air New Zealand.
Or take a scenic flight to Mount Cook (New Zealands highest
mountain), Mount Tasman, Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers,
Milford Sound, Mount Aspiring, Lake Brunner, the Punakaiki
Pancake rocks, the Heaphy Track, Karamea, Nelson and more.
By Car or Campervan
KEA HERITAGE TOURS
152 Golf Links Rd, Greymouth
FREEPH: 0800 532 868

e: info@keatours.co.nz
www.keatours.co.nz
tel: +64 3 768 9292
Small group eco-tours that explore and interpret our regions natural
& cultural history. Punakaiki blowholes, Shantytown, Glaciers, multiday trips Greymouth to Queenstown. Private tours. Charters.
NEW ZEALAND RENT A CAR

170 Tainui St, Greymouth
tel: +64 3 768 0379 fax: +64 3 768 0740

e: greeneld@minidata.co.nz
Rental cars and mini vans. Twenty locations New Zealand wide.
Free delivery and pick up from TranzAlpine train, hotels and motels.
Aordable rates.
RITCHIES WEST COAST
www.ritchies.co.nz
65 Kaiata Park Drive, Greymouth
tel: +64 3 768 2222 fax: +64 3 768 6722

e: westcoast.depot@ritchies.co.nz
By Train
Need a bus? Call us!

Whether youre a small group or large, travelling within the West Coast
or beyond, we have transport for your next group outing covered.
WEST COAST SHUTTLE
www.westcoastshuttle.co.nz
52 Marsden Road, Greymouth
tel: +64 3 768 0028 fax: +64 3 768 0328

e: travel@westcoastshuttle.co.nz
Travel in comfort Greymouth - Christchurch - Greymouth (via airport and Arthurs
Pass) Departs: 8am Greymouth, 2.30pm Christchurch. Finalist in LEADING
LIGHT BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2011. Report 15 mins. Prior
EUROPCAR
Train Station, Mackay Street, Greymouth
FREEPH: 0800 800 115

e: info@europcar.co.nz
The West Coast links to our neighbouring regions to form

some fantastic touring routes. The roads are sealed and
easy to drive. Rental cars are available on arrival, however
pre-booking is recommended.
State Highway 7 links North Canterbury to the West Coast
via Maruia Springs and Reefton. The highway weaves
through beech forests to the summit of Lewis Pass (863m).
State Highway 73 links Canterbury to the West Coast
via the dramatic Otira Gorge in Arthurs Pass National
Park with many places to stop near running water and
accessible bush walks.
Scenic State Highway 6 links Blenheim and Nelson to
Westport through the Buller Gorge following the Buller
River for much of the way. The highway continues on
down the West Coast (450km) and through to Wanaka
via the Haast Pass - the lowest pass over the main
divide of the South Island at 563m.
The TranzAlpine train trip from Christchurch to Greymouth
is one of the top 6 train journeys in the world. The train
passes through 16 tunnels and over five viaducts with
panoramic views of snow- capped peaks, icy rivers, beech
forests, spectacular gorges and river valleys. It arrives
into Greymouth daily, from Christchurch, at 12.45pm and
returns at 1.45pm. Bookings can be made on 0800 872 467
or through any Information Centre or i-SITE.
By Bus
www.Europcar.co.nz
tel: +64 3 768 9980
A global leader in car rental, Europcar has more than 3,300 car
hire locations throughout 150 countries. No matter where you are
or need to go, Europcar has the right car rental for you.
Bus services connect the West Coast with Wanaka and

Queenstown, Christchurch, Hanmer Springs, Nelson and Picton
and can be booked through Information Centres or i-SITEs.
Information correct at time of printing however details may change
and Tourism West Coast takes no responsibility for any alteration to
information as supplied.
KARAMEA
[1]
MUSEUM - Exhibits include gold, timber,
farming and early settlement.
FENIAN TRACK TO ADAMS FLAT - A historic
track to gold workings and a replica hut.
SEDDONVILLE
[2]
CHASM CREEK WALKWAY - A track on the
old Seddonville branch railway line passes
through a tunnel and across a bridge.
NGAKAWAU
[3]
CHARMING CREEK WALKWAY - Follows a
railway line down a spectacular gorge, past
coal mine and sawmill remains. Top end is
12km from Seddonville.
STOCKTON COAL AERIAL - The bucket line
brings coal down from the Stockton plateau
to the mine bins.
GRANITY [4]
MUSEUM - A former mines building next to
historic coke ovens.
MILLERTON - A hilltop mining town ruin.
INCLINE WALKWAY - A track leads to part of
the incline rail system, complete with coal
tubs and tunnels.
MINE SITES - Mine entrances, rope road
formations, bathhouse remains and a dam wall.
WAIMANGAROA
[5]
BRITANNIA GOLD MINE - A good walking
track climbs through forest to a five-head
battery.
CONNS CREEK YARDS - Relics at the foot of
the Denniston Incline.
DENNISTON
[6]
DENNISTON BRIDLE TRACK - Climbs The
Hill, also giving access to the incline.
BRAKEHEAD - Relics and superb views from
the top of the famous incline.
BANBURY ARCH AND THE CAMP - A short
walk to an impressive stone arch.
MUSEUM - A former school building contains
displays depicting the town and mines.
TOWN WALK - A loop around settlement and
mine sites.
BURNETTS FACE SETTLEMENT AND
ROPEROAD - Past Denniston via a good
shingle road.
COALBROOKDALE WALKWAY - Roperoad
formations lead to mines and fan house.
WESTPORT
[7]
COALTOWN MUSEUM - An essential stop
before exploring the old coalfields.
BULLER COALFIELDS HERITAGE TRAIL Links localities north to Seddonville.
HISTORIC BUILDINGS - The Coasts oldest town
has buildings from colonial to art deco periods.
CAPE FOULWIND
RAILWAY AND QUARRY - Traces of the line
and seaside quarry for Westports harbour
works.
LIGHTHOUSES - The functioning lighthouse
and foundations of the original are at the
north end of the walkway to Tauranga Bay
seal colony.
ADDISONS FLAT
[10]
CEMETERY - the last trace of a once famous
gold mining town.
CHARLESTON AREA
[11]
MITCHELLS GULLY GOLD MINE - An authentic
operation with tunnels and battery.
CONSTANT BAY - A former goldfield harbour
with a walk to the signal station site.
PIONEER CEMETERIES - Catholics and
Protestants at the opposite end of town.
FOX RIVER
[12]
TE ANA O MATUKU - A sea cave occupied by
travellers from the earliest days.
FOX RIVER BRIDGE - A timber truss bridge
gives walking access to a former road tunnel.
RUNANGA
[19]
MINERS HALL - Restored, complete with the
original union slogans.
GREYMOUTH AREA
[22]
LITTLE EARTH - The gold town of Waiuta and
Reefton village re-created to scale. Located
at On Yer Bike!
COBDEN GUN EMPLACEMENT - Short climb
from Wickes St to World War Two relic with
town and river views.
MAWHERA VILLAGE SITE - Marked by a
plaque beside the highway bridge.
TOWN HERITAGE WALK - Links significant
buildings and other historic sites.
GREYMOUTH EVENING STAR MURAL Headlines from local history. Mackay Street.
HISTORY HOUSE - An extraordinary array of
photos and relics on town, port etc.
COAL RIVER PARK - Relics and sculptures on
floodwall and wharf celebrate the harbour
and its main export.
SHANTYTOWN - The Coasts most famous
historical attraction with steam train, sawmill
and gold panning.
WOODS CREEK - A bush walk with tunnels,
water races and fascinating gold workings.
KAWATIRI JUNCTION
[8]
RAILWAY WALKWAY - A track on the old
Nelson-Kawatiri rail formation crosses a
bridge and passes through a tunnel.
MURCHISON
[10]
MUSEUM - Displays in the former Post Office
recall the devastating 1929 earthquake and
other local history. (Please make a donation.)
West
Coast
Heritage
Sites
The region early Maori called Te Tai O
Poutini was valued by them for its precious
pounamu jade. Pakeha later came in search
of other rich resources such as gold, coal and
timber. Many of the historic features they left
are accessible today by road or on walks of
varying length.
Those listed here are easily found, well marked and
in many cases interpreted via information panels,
brochures and books.
In addition there are numerous roadside plaques and
stopping places where information panels have historic
content. Even the old cemeteries have their stories to
tell, while the Taramakau road/rail bridge is something
to be experienced.
Visitor information centres & i-SITES have further
details, plus in some cases directions to more distant
and difficult to find historic places not on the following
map.
LYELL
[9]
LYELL WALKWAY - Ghost town revived by
photographs. Walk links cemetery, alluvial
gold workings and stamp battery.
REEFTON [14]
VISITOR CENTRE - Features a mine engine
and realistic underground section.
HISTORIC TOWN WALK - Passes buildings
dating from the towns earliest days, including
the School of Mines.
POWER HOUSE WALK - Recalls NZs first
public electricity supply of 1888.
RAILWAY PRECINCT - Station, locomotive
shed and (in town) a Fairlie locomotive.
CEMETERIES - In town and 3km south, graves
of prospectors and miners.
ALBORNS COAL MINE - A track around
remains of a small coal mining operation.
BIG RIVER
[13]
GOLD MINE, BATTERY, SAWMILL AND
COAL MINES - A remarkable historic complex,
accessible via walking tracks.
BLACKS POINT
[15]
MUSEUM - Much mining and domestic
memorabilia. (Please make a donation.)
MURRAY CREEK - LANKEY CREEK TRACKS Link the reef mines that gave rise to Reefton.
GOLDEN LEAD WALKS - Along a water race
with a longer option to a battery.
BLACKWATER
[16]
A TINY SCHOOL - marks a settlement with
gold rush roots. (Donation please.)
WAIUTA
[16]
TOWN AND MINE - Relics of the Coasts last
great gold strike.
BATTERY AND POWERHOUSE - Foundations
linked via a racemans track.
PROHIBITION HILL - The top of NZs deepest
mine shaft (879 metres).
MOONLIGHT
[17]
SLUICE GUNS - Hydraulic sluicing monitors
mark the Moonlight Road turn-off.
MOONLIGHT TRACK - Passes tailing walls,
hut sites, water race and battery.
BLACKBALL
[18]
TOWN WALK - Covers the towns significant
remaining buildings and other sites.
MINE SITE - Chimneys, ventilator and bath
house shell adjacent to the road.
BLACKBALL-ROA RAILWAY LINE - Includes
unusual timber bridges.
CROESUS TRACK - Crosses the Paparoa
range, passing gold workings, miners huts
and a battery.
NELSON CREEK
[20]
An unusual footbridge crosses to bush tracks
through intriguing gold workings.
RED JACKS
[20]
LOCALLY BUILT LOGGING LOCOMOTIVE Beside State Highway 7.
BRUNNER
[21]
BRUNNER INDUSTRIAL SITE - Coal mines,
brickworks and coke ovens linked by a
suspension bridge.
BRUNNER DISASTER GRAVE - Last resting
place for victims of New Zealands most
deadly mine explosion.
KOTUKU
[23]
SCHOOL AND MINI BUNGALOW - Reminders
of a former sawmilling settlement.
KUMARA
[26]
HISTORIC DISPLAYS - Recall a late great gold
rush and miner/politician R.J.Seddon.
SWIMMING POOL - A unique facility, formed
among tailing boulders.
LONDONDERRY ROCK - A house-sized
boulder amidst stacks of sluice tailings.
GOLDSBOROUGH - Mining tunnels and a gold
panning area where a gold town stood.
STAFFORD CEMETERY - People of many
nationalities lie in a genuine Boot Hill.
HOKITIKA AREA
[27]
ARAHURA PLAQUE - Recognises the special
status of the river to Maori as the source of
pounamu (nephrite jade or greenstone).
CEMETERY - Graves dating from the gold
days, plus a panoramic view.
LIGHTHOUSE - Restored timber tower on
Seaview Hill, near the cemetery.
HERITAGE AREA - A replica shipwreck recalls
the busy port and treacherous entrance.
CARNEGIE BUILDING - The columned library
now serves as the visitor centre, art gallery
and museum entrance.
MUSEUM - Features displays, research
archives and audio visual. (Entry fee.)
TOWN WALK - Shop window panels trace site
histories since the gold rush.
LAKE KANIERE WATER RACE WALK - Follows
a system built for gold mining and now used
to generate electricity.
RIMU LOOKOUT - A view over one of the
countrys great goldfields.
LAKE MAHINAPUA - Paddle steamer and
timber truss rail bridge.
FRANZ JOSEF
JACKSON BAY
[31]
HENDES GALLERY - A wrought iron cliff-side
structure on Roberts Point track.
ST JAMES ANGLICAN CHURCH - Famous for
glacier views that come and go.
TATARE TRACK - Through old gold workings to
intriguing tunnels.
[34]
WHARF - The Coasts most southern
settlement boasts its sole sea wharf.
LONELY GRAVE - The earliest known
European burial spot on the West Coast.
INFORMATION SHELTER - Interprets history
from early Maori to a disastrous Government
settlement of the 1870s.
GILLESPIES BEACH
[32]
CEMETERY - The only tangible trace of
another former gold town.
GOLD DREDGES - Parts of two machines that
worked the sand for gold.
TRACK TUNNEL - Driven through a coastal
cliff along the diggers beach highway.
KNIGHTS POINT LOOKOUT - Scene of the
highway opening in 1965.
HAAST
[33]
HAAST VISITOR CENTRE - Covers aspects
of history from Maori travellers to modern
roadmakers.
HAPUKA ESTUARY WALK - Panels interpret
historic aspects of Open Bay Islands, viewed
from the track.
3 2
4
5
10 7
6
8
10
11
ROSS
[28]
INFORMATION CENTRE - Audiovisual, scale
mine models and all-weather panning area.
WALKWAY - Follows an old water race to the
historic cemetery overlooking town.
CURIO ROOM - A fantastic collection of
onetime everyday objects. Free of charge.
12
14
13
15
16
17
18
19 20
21
22
HARI HARI
[29]
TRANS TASMAN FLIGHT - The first solo flight
from Australia, by Guy Menzies in 1931, is
commemorated where he landed.
26
OKARITO
[30]
WHARF SHED - A reconstructed remnant of
gold rush shipping days.
DONOVAN S STORE - Restored upon The
Strand, the gold rush main street.
SCHOOL - A century-old building, now
restored as a youth hostel.
25
88
23
24
27
28
29
LAKE BRUNNER
30
[24]
MOANA RAIL PRECINCT - A station, overhead
footbridge and station masters residence
(now a caf).
BAIN BAY - Bush walk to a former lakeside
logging camp and wharf.
31
32
GREENSTONE
[25]
CEMETERY - Scattered graves overlook the
site of a vanished gold town.
ALBERT HUNT PLAQUE - Commemorates
the Coasts first payable gold rush.
33
34
Biking on the West Coast

WEST COAST WILDERNESS
TRAIL [24]
GREYMOUTH TO ROSS VIA KUMARA AND
HOKITIKA - 136km, 2-4 days | Grade 2 (easy).
The trail traverses tracks carved by pioneering
gold miners, past rainforest, glacial rivers and
lakes, wetlands and the Tasman Sea. It is due
to officially open in late 2013.
OLD GHOST ROAD
[7]
SEDDONVILLE TO LYELL - 88km, 2-3 days |
Grade 4 (advanced). Follows a long forgotten
gold miners road and traverses native forest,
alpine tops and seven ghost towns. At time of
print approx 25km of track from either end is
open but the track is not completed.
HEAPHY TRACK
[2]
WEST COAST TO GOLDEN BAY - 80km, 2-3
days | Grade 4 (advanced). Open May to
September for mountain biking. Travels
from Kohaihai, 16km north of Karamea to
Collingwood in the Tasman district.
CHARMING CREEK
[5]
30KM NORTHEAST OF WESTPORT - 36km,
3-5 hours | Grade 3. Ride through native bush
on an old railway line.
DENNISTON PLATEAU
[6]
25KM NORTH OF WESTPORT - Over 50km of
tracks, 1-12 hours | Grades 2-4. A number of
different rides on the Denniston plateau. Bike
tracks pamphlet available from DOC office
and bike shop in Westport.
TIROPAHI TRAM TRACK
[10]
26KM SOUTH OF WESTPORT - 25 km loop,
3-5 hours | Grade 3+. Part sealed road,
partforestry road, part single track.
KIRWANS TRACK
[13]
19KM NORTHEAST OF REEFTON. 20KM
RETURN, 4-6 hours | Grade 5. A bit of a slog
uphill but great downhill and some technical
sections.
BLACKS POINT
[16]
WAITAHU VALLEY, REEFTON - 27km, 3-6
hours | Grade 3+. Ride through beech forest
and mining remains.
NAPOLEON HILL
[20]
47KM NORTHEAST OF GREYMOUTH - 12km,
2-4 hours | Grade 3. Adventure ride on 4WD
tracks past an old gold mining settlement.
Landowner permission required: Robin and
Malcolm Smith Ph +64 3 732 3849 or 021
131 4632.
KUMARA MUD PLUG |

NO NAME ROAD [22]
NEMONA STATE FOREST, 15KM SOUTH
OF GREYMOUTH - 33km from Marsden,
2-4 hours | Grade 3+. Classic ride along old
logging tracks and gravel roads.
TAIPO VALLEY
[29]
40KM EAST OF KUMARA JUNCTION - 18km
return, 2-4 hours | Grade 3. Scenic half-day
ride on a rough old farm track.
BLUE SPUR & NATIONALS

TRACKS [26]
HOKITIKA - A bike park with a network of
excellent tracks within easy biking distance
of Hokitika township. For more information,
maps and info can be found at Hokitika Cycle
& Sport.
KANIERE WATER RACE
[28]
19KM SOUTH EAST OF HOKITIKA - 10km, 1-2
hours | Grade 4+. Mostly flat and easyride
with a few tricky bits and stairs where you
have to carry your bike. Follows an old water
race through the bush.
TOTARA VALLEY
[31]
27KM SOUTH OF HOKITIKA - 40km return,
3-4 hours | Grade 1+. Ride up a quiet West
Coast valley.
Wherever you are on the West Coast there is a walk or

biking trail in your vicinity.
From full on multi-day tramps to a ten-minute amble to
a picturesque spot you will find something to suit your
ability and time frame. It is worth talking to a local or
visiting the nearest i-SITE or DOC visitor information
centre to get up to date information on tracks in the
area. They can also let you know what conditions are
like. Here are some of our favourite walks, hikes, trails
and bike rides available.
FRANZ JOSEF - 8.7km, 1 hr return | Grade

1. Ride through the bush from Franz Josef
Village to glacier carpark.
TE WEHEKA CYCLEWAY
[35]
FOX GLACIER - 8.4km, 1 hr return | Grade 1.
Ride through the bush from Fox Glacier Village
to glacier carpark.
PARINGA-HAAST CATTLE
TRACK [36]
MOONLIGHT TRACK
43KM NORTHEAST OF HAAST - 1-2 days |

Grade 5.
Follows an old cattle track.
[19]
10KM NORTHEAST OF BLACKBALL - 32km,
4-6 hours | Grade 5-. Ride along a historic
miners path.
The best way to experience the wild West

Coast is to simply get out there amongst
it. There are so many guided or unguided
walks, hiking, cycling and mountain biking
trails to choose from. Time is your only
limitation.
TE ARA A WAIAU
CYCLEWAY [34]
BIG RIVER
[14]
REEFTON - 50km return, 4-8 hours | Grade 3.
Historic mining road through native bush.
Biking &
Walking
CROESUS TRACK
[18]
BLACKBALL, 25KM NORTHEAST OF
GREYMOUTH - 33km return (20km return
from Smoke-ho carpark), 1 day | Grade 4. A
premier West Coast mountain bike ride with
superb views through forest to the alpine
zone. Heli-biking options available.
West Coast Walks

KOHAIHAI
[1]
HEAPHY TRACK - 5 days between Karamea
and Golden Bay. Great walk | easy tramping.
Traverses coastline, rainforest and alpine
grasslands.
NIKAU WALK - 50 minutes | easy. Across the
Kohaihai River suspension bridge this walk
leaves the Heaphy Track to loop through an
stand of nikau and northern rata forest.
LAKE KANIERE
WAIUTA
[17]
GHOST TOWN - Accessible by car. The most
famous West Coast ghost town located 17
km off SH 7, midway between Reefton and
Greymouth.
REEFTON
[4]
SCOTTS BEACH WALK - 45 minutes | easy.
Beautiful forest walk along coastline
[15]
BOTTLED LIGHTENING POWERHOUSE 40-minutes | easy. NZs first power generation
site. Walk from the Reefton Visitor Centre.
PROHIBITION MINE AND BALL MINE - 1 hr |
easy. From the old Waiuta town site winds up
to the top of the countrys deepest mineshaft.
OPARARA VALLEY
LAKE BRUNNER
KARAMEA
[3]
OPARARA ARCH - 35 minutes | easy. A
well-formed track takes you to the southern
hemispheres biggest limestone arch. Look
out for Blue Duck (Whio) on the Oparara River.
MOIRA GATE ARCH WALK - 45 minutes | easy.
Follows the Oparara River to arch.
NGAKAWAU
[5]
CHARMING CREEK WALKWAY - 30-minutes |
easy. Bush walk, historic rail remnants, 35 km
north-east of Westport.
LYELL
[9]
CEMETERY - 10-minutes | easy. This walk
starts at the Lyell picnic/camping area and
passes through beech forest to a picturesque
goldfield cemetery.
WAIMANGAROA
[6]
DENNISTON WALK - 3 hrs up, 2 hrs down.
Follows the historic bridal track used by
coalminers.
DENNISTON PLATEAU
[6]
DENNISTON TOWN WALK - 45 mins | easy.
From Friends of the Hill Info Centre via old
historic sites.
WESTPORT
[8]
SEAL COLONY AND CAPE FOULWIND
WALKWAY - 10 min or 1 hr 30 minutes | easy.
An easy walk from the Tauranga Bay car
park leads to viewing platforms overlooking
the seal colony. The track continues above
the coastline to the historic Cape Foulwind
lighthouse.
CHARLESTON
[10]
CONSTANT AND JOYCE BAYS - 15 mins | easy.
Coastal rock formations and sea views.
TIROPAHI WALK - 1 hr 30 mins | easy. Old
bush tramway via milling site, river and
limestone bluffs. One river crossing.
FOX RIVER
[11]
FOX RIVER CAVES - 1 hr 30 mins | easy.
Limestone gorge to caves. Take torches.
PUNAKAIKI [12]
TRUMAN TRACK - 15 mins | easy. Through
bush to coast. Sea caves and rock pools.
PORORARI WALK - 15-minutes | easy. Relax
on a seat overlooking a spectacular view of
the river gorge and limestone cliffs - 1km
north of the Visitor Centre on SH6.
PANCAKE ROCKS - 20-minutes | easy.
Blowholes and spectacular rock formations,
ocean views, SH 6, midway between Westport
and Greymouth.
[28]
LAKE KANIERE WALKWAY - 4 hr one way
| easy. Starts or ends at Sunny Bight picnic
area. Passes along the western shores of
the lake.
KANIERE WATER RACE WALKWAY - 3 hrs
30 mins to 4 hrs one way | average fitness.
Follows the twists and turns of an historic
power station water race as it passes along
the edge of the scenic reserve.
MOUNT TUHUA TRACK - 7 hr return | fit
trampers. Steep tramp to the open tussock
peak of Mt. Tuhua (1125 metres) with
spectacular views.
ROSS
[30]
ROSS HISTORIC GOLDFIELDS WALKS - 1060 minutes walks | easy. A range of interesting
historic goldfields walks starting from the
Ross Information Centre.
[23]
VELENSKI WALK - 20-minutes | easy. A
600-metre loop walk starts from Ahau Street
just past the motor camp at the western end
of Moana township.
RAKAITANE WALK - 30-minutes | easy. Starts
from the lakeside carpark beyond the motor
camp at the western end of Moana township.
OKARITO
[33]
WETLAND WALK - 20-minutes | easy. From
the car park by the Okarito School House this
track winds though bush before crossing the
estuary on a curving boardwalk.
THREE MILE PACK TRACK OKARITO
COASTAL WALK - 3 hr 30 mins | easy. Only
suitable within 2 hours of low tide. Follows
coastal forest to climb over Kohuamarua
Bluff.
OKARITO TRIG WALK - 1 hr 30 mins | easy.
Winds gently uphill on well-graded track to
trig for amazing views.
KUMARA
[24]
LONDONDERRY ROCK WALK - 10-minutes
| easy. Turn off SH 73, 1km east of Kumara,
short walking track through old gold workings
to view a huge boulder too large for the
miners to move or break.
ARTHURS PASS
[32]
DEVILS PUNCHBOWL WALK - 30 minutes
| easy. Track starts west of the village and
climbs up to the base of a spectacular 131m
waterfall.
BRIDAL VEIL WALK - 20 minutes | easy.
Through subalpine mountain beech forest to
a small clearing with a picnic table, good view
of the falls.
[37]
MONRO BEACH WALK - 40 mins | easy.
Through luxuriant coastal forest to Munro
Beach.
SHIP CREEK TWO WALKS - 30-minutes |
easy. Experience an ancient kahikatea forest
walk or head through wind-shorn coastal
forest to a dune lake.
JACKSON BAY
[39]
SMOOTHWATER BAY TRACK - 1 hr 30 mins
2 hrs | average. Follows old pioneers track
and then riverbed.
WHAREKAI TE KOU WALK - 20 mins | easy.
Walk from sheltered Jackson Bay to the rocky
shore at Ocean Beach.
HAAST HIGHWAY
[38]
THUNDER CREEK FALLS - 5 minutes | easy.
This easy walk is located adjacent to the
Haast Highway and follows a sealed track
to the spectacular 28m high Thunder Creek
Falls.
HAAST PASS [40]

BLUE POOLS WALK - 30 minutes | easy.
Surrounded by forest, enjoy this gentle walk
to a swing bridge and pristine river pools.
FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER [34]

VALLEY WALK - 1 hr 30 mins return | easy.
From the glacier car park its a 45-minute
easy walk to the public glacier viewing point.
TE ARA A WAIAU WALKWAY - 2 hr return
| easy. Track goes from village to glacier
carpark via bush track.
PETERS POOL - 25 mins | easy. Kettle
Lake and glacier views. Wheelchair
accessible.
GREYMOUTH [21]
POINT ELIZABETH WALKWAY - 1 hour 45
minutes | easy
Access via North Beach Road, Cobden or
Seven Mile Road, Rapahoe. A well formed
walk through coastal bush with stunning cliff
top views.
WOODS CREEK TRACK - 45 min loop | easy.
Walk through bush to explore fascinating
tunnels used by goldminers. Great for
children allow time for exploring. Access
past Shantytown.
FOX GLACIER
1
3
4
5
6
8
[35]
FOX GLACIER VALLEY WALKS 30-minutes | easy. From the car park
10
its a 30-minute easy walk to the
11
1314
public glacier viewing point.
15
12
TE WEHEKA WALKWAY - 2 hrs 20
16
mins return | easy. Track goes from
17
village to glacier carpark via bush
18 19 20
track.
LAKE MATHESON WALK
21
- 20-minutes | easy.
22
From the car park its a
23
24
20-minute walk to the
25
jetty where on still days
26
27
28
29
the lake forms a mirror. A
walk around the lake can
31
32
30
be completed in 1 hour
30 minutes.
GOLDSBOROUGH
[25]
TUNNEL TERRACE WALK - 20 min loop | easy.
Starts on the road between Stafford and
Goldsborough. Track meanders through old
gold works and tail race tunnels.
GERMAN GULLY PACK TRACK - 30 minutes,
one way / easy. Track climbs out of the valley
and emerges on the Scandinavian Hill Road.
HOKITIKA
[27]
HOKITIKA GORGE - 15-minutes | easy.
An awesome viewing platform is just four
minutes from the car park and this part of the
track is accessible for wheelchairs.
MAHINAPUA WALKWAY - Mountain biking
and walking | easy. A 15-minute walk to
Mahinapua Creek on the edge of Lake
Mahinapua or walk further along the old
tram line.
7
9
33
34
35
36
37
HAAST
39
38
40
Picton
Nelson
Blenheim
Karamea
WESTPORT
GREAT COAST ROAD
REEFTON GOLD
Reefton
Punakaiki
GREYMOUTH
JADE COUNTRY
Hokitika
Lake
Brunner LAKES
DISTRICT
Christchurch
GLACIER COUNTRY
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
GATES OF HAAST
Haast
Jacksons
Bay
Wanaka
Queenstown
The
Northern
West Coast
& Buller
WEST COAST INGENUITY: WHILE MINING THE MOST
RUGGED TERRAIN IMAGINABLE COASTERS DEVELOPED
AN ENGINEERING PROJECT ON THE DENNISTON INCLINE
THAT WAS DUBBED THE 8TH WONDER OF THE WORLD.
WE THINK IT POSSIBLY LED TO THE CREATION OF THE
ROLLER COASTER?
You can still visit the remnants of this piece of great Kiwi inventiveness.
As you walk around the lonely landscape on the Denniston Plateau you
can almost hear the clang of the old coal bins. This is the place to see if
you have what it takes to be a miner. The Denniston Mining Experience
takes you underground where you are allocated a job and put to work
the state-of-the-art audio and visual effects really do simulate the
harsh life of a Denniston miner.
Talking of being underground the limestone arches and caves of
Oparara near Karamea are like another world. The most northern
part of the West Coast is one of those hidden gems. Picture a place of
long empty beaches, river estuaries, native birds, beautiful sunsets,
walks through warm rainforests and incredible granite and limestone
formations.
Westport is the largest town. It is only a short drive from here to
fantastic mountain biking, walks and one of the most accessible seal
colonies in the country at Tauranga Bay/Cape Foulwind.
THE NORTHERN WEST COAST
Westport
Westport is a coastal township located on

the Buller River and the ideal base to explore
the stunning Buller region. While keeping
its small town feel the thriving mining
industry means Westport offers restaurants,
cafes and amenities (including an airport)
you would expect to find in a much larger
town.
As the Coasts oldest town Westport has a fair few
stories to tell. Check out the Coaltown Museum in
Palmerston Street where you can learn about its
mining history and the pioneers who battled the rugged
environment.
There is plenty to see and do, the climate is mild and
spots like Carters Beach are great for taking in the sun,
walking and watching the sunset. The Westport i-SITE
at 113 Palmerston Street has maps and information on
the walks, activities and heritage experiences in the
area.
Our favourite free activity is the Cape Foulwind Walk
(16km southwest of Westport). The 1- hour walk (one
way) takes you over a prominent headland overlooking
the Tasman Sea and has superb coastal views. At the
VISITOR TIP
North of Westport the remnants
of the desolate Denniston coal
town have been transformed
into a living, breathing memorial
to its mining past. With
magnificent views the dramatic
plateau is a must see and you can
even venture underground with
the new Denniston Experience.
Karamea to
Hrs
Kms
Karamea
Westport
Reefton
Punakaiki
Greymouth
Lake Brunner
Hokitika
Hari Hari
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
Haast
1:30
98
1:30
0:50
1:25
1:50
2:05
3:05
3:55
4:20
5:50
77
54
97
126
137
215
276
301
419
Arthurs Pass
Christchurch
Nelson
Picton
Queenstown
2:30
4:30
3:30
4:30
9:35
196
336
230
294
658
THE NORTHERN WEST COAST & BULLER
ACTIVITIES | WESTPORT
Westport is a town built on coal
extraction from wild and remote
places like Denniston, Stockton
and Millerton where daily life
was a struggle and comfort a
luxury.
The various displays focus on
formation of coal, maritime
history, unionism, the
communities, transport and
men underground. We are a
colourful and modern museum
that brings the past to life, and
links the past to the present.
123 Palmerston Street | Westport | Ph: 03 789 6658 | www.coaltown.co.nz
SOLID ENERGY CENTRE
www.solidenergycentre.co.nz
Corner of Pakington & Domett Streets, Westport
ACCOMMODATION | WESTPORT
tel: +64 3 789 8316

e: info@solidenergycentre.co.nz
Westports only aquatic and sports facility. Come in and make use
of our 3 pools, stadium, gym, squash courts, hockey turf, casual
showers, gear hireage and internet facilities Open 7 days
WESTPORT SPA MOTEL
207 Palmerston St, Westport
FREEPH: 0800 375 273

tel: +64 3 789 5273 fax: +64 3 789 5293
e: stay@westportspamotel.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 500 989
Looking for somewhere nice to dine!

Enjoy yourselves dine with us for Breakfast and Dinner. Conference catering by arrangement
THE BAY HOUSE
www.bayhouse.co.nz
Old Beach Road, Tauranga Bay, Westport
tel: +64 3 789 4151

e: info@bayhouse.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 500 989

e: bookings@westportmotorhotel.co.nz
ARCHER HOUSE
www.archerhouse.co.nz
75 Queen Street, Westport
FREEPH: 0800 789 877

e: accom@archerhouse.co.nz
Archer House oers superior accommodation at an aordable price.
We strive to exceed the clients expectation in accommodation. Set in a
spacious garden setting. Join us and experience its history and charm.
www.bellavistamotelwestport.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 235 528

tel: +64 3 789 7800 fax: +64 3 789 8110
e: bvwestport@xtra.co.nz
BULLER BRIDGE MOTEL
Westports largest accommodation complex.

27 units of international standard, some with spas.
Leading restaurant, bars and conference facilities.
Great West Coast hospitality.
A friendly welcome awaits you.
BULLER COURT MOTEL
www.bullercourtmotel.co.nz
235 Palmerston Street, Westport
FREEPH: 0800 832 432 fax: +64 3 789 7501

e: stay@bullercourtmotel.co.nz
Buller Court enjoys a convenient location and oers supurb comfort and style
You will love our beautifully renovated rooms with Sky, free
wi and undercover parking. Relax with us
Stay with us in Westport. Close to town centre & restaurants.

Quality units from compact studios to 1 bedroom.
The Esplanade, Westport
www.westportmotorhotel.co.nz
207 Palmerston St, PO BOX 267, Westport
ACCOMMODATION | WESTPORT
10 modern, spacious studio & 1

bedroom apartments.
Large double corner spa baths. King size beds
Free wireless broadband.
Stay with us while you enjoy the Buller regions
spectacular scenery, intriguing history
and our warm hospitality.
WESTPORT MOTOR HOTEL
With stunning waterfront views and seasonal New Zealand style

cuisine, the iconic Bay House is a true destination for those in search
of a memorable dining experience in a world class location!
BELLA VISTA MOTEL WESTPORT
www.westportspamotel.co.nz
FOOD AND DRINK | WESTPORT

SERENGETI BAR & RESTAURANT
southern end you can get up close

and personal with the local wild
life at one of New Zealands most
accessible seal colonies. You can
watch the seals swimming and
dozing year round but the best
viewing is between October and
March when the big bull seals
return to mate and the pups are at
their most playful.
The seal colony viewing platform
can also be easily accessed via a
short stroll from the car park at
Tauranga Bay. The sheltered bay
is famous for surfing and the Bay
House Caf.
www.bullerbridgemotel.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 500 209 tel: +64 3 789 7519

fax: +64 3 789 7165 e: bullerbridgemotel@xtra.co.nz
15 Self contained clean, quiet, spacious Apartments, with full
cooking facilities, undercover bbq, childrens playground, 50+ Sky
TV, Wi. Come stay and relax in our quiet garden setting.
WESTPORT HOLIDAY PARK & MOTELS

31-37 Domett St, Westport
tel: +64 3 789 7043

fax: +64 3 789 7199
www.westportholidaypark.co.nz
e: westportholidaypark@xtra.co.nz
Set in native bush close to town.

Powered & non-powered sites, standard & ensuite chalets, studio
& 2 bedroom motels. 18 hole mini golf course on site.
Westport to Karamea
The 1- hour drive between Westport and Karamea is
one of the finest in New Zealand so take some time along
the way. There are plenty of places to stay on the way
and the beaches, short walks, mountain biking, galleries,
museums and even an underground mining experience
mean you can while away a whole day or more.
17 km from Westport you come
to the township of Waimangaroa,
from here drive up to the
Denniston Plateau (9km) where
you will get a real insight into the
challenging conditions miners
experienced at the turn of the
century.
Now a Category 1 Historic Place
there are still remnants of
the steep incline railway that
transported the coal 2000ft down
to the coast - locals knew it as the

8th wonder of the world. As you
walk around the lonely landscape,
viewing the remains and reading
the information boards you can
almost hear the clang of the old
coal bins.
You can download a free app to
the literary trail based on Jenny
Pattricks best selling book The
Denniston Rose. It takes you to
17 of the books key locations and
ACTIVITIES | WESTPORT KARAMEA

THE DENNISTON EXPERIENCE
www.denniston.co.nz
Denniston Plateau, 25km North of Westport
FREEPH: 0800 881 880

e: info@denniston.co.nz
Enjoy a guided tour into an original

1880s underground coal mine
where advanced audio and visuals
bring the experience alive.
Have a go at your allocated
mining job; hewer, trucker....
Watch a ghostly miner hologram
to understand the harsh life of an
old time Denniston coal miner.
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL.
COME MINE COAL WITH US!
THE OLD GHOST ROAD

Mokihinui Lyell
www.oldghostroad.org.nz
e: info@oldghostroad.org.nz
An epic 80km cycling and tramping trail through some of the most awe-inspiring natural and
cultural heritage in New Zealand.
Information and hut bookings at www.oldghostroad.org.nz
ACCOMMODATION | WESTPORT KARAMEA

CHARMING CREEK B & B/ THE BEACH NEST
24 Main Rd, Ngakawau Beach -20 mins Nth of Westport, Westport
www.bullerbeachstay.co.nz
tel: +64 3 782 8007

e: info@bullerbeachstay.co.nz
Stylish,beach B & B; & self catering cottage. Winner of major Trip advisor & Travel Bug
awards. Recommended by Lonely Planet.New Self catering cottage in spectacular
private beachfront location shared with wild wekas and little blue penguins.
brings its colourful characters to

life.
For a real taste of coalmining
try The New Denniston Mining
Experience. This interactive
experience takes you by train
high above the Waimangaroa
Gorge and into an historic 1880s
coalmine. You will be allocated
a job and put to work the stateof-the-art audio and visual effects
really do simulate the harsh life of
a Denniston miner.
The Denniston Plateau also
has walks and mountain biking
tracks. Even shrouded in mist
the dramatic landscape is breath
taking and the views magnificent.
Continuing up the coast you will
find Ngakawau (31km). From here
you can do short walks to the coal
bins, Watson and Mumms Mill.
This is the downhill end of the
Charming Creek Walkway - locals
would recommend you start the
walk inland at Seddonville.
At Hector (32km), look out for
the Hector Pottery studio, gallery
and Country Music Museum.
The museum is
bursting with owner
Barrys collection of
country music LPs,
CDs, tapes, sheet
music, song-books
and autographed
photographs.
Next stop is Mokihinui
(42km). Either turn left
towards the sea and
river mouth or head
inland to Seddonville.
Chasm Creek walkway
is 40 minutes from
the car park. This is
also the inland start
to the Charming Creek
walkway Grade 2,
6 hours return. The
walkway can also be
mountain biked and
follows a heritage
railroad through bush
as it winds down the
Ngakawau Valley.
Seddonville also
marks one end of
the Old Ghost Road
tramping and mountain biking

track. The 80km multi-day walk
or ride follows a long forgotten
gold miners road and traverses
native forest, alpine tops and
seven ghost towns to Lyell in
the Buller Gorge. Check www.
oldghostroad.org for latest track
condition updates..
Back on the main highway turn
left after you cross the Mokihinui
Road to reach Gentle Annie Point
walk. The coastal walk takes you
to a headland with a native bush
maze! Grade 1-2, 30 minutes
return.
The road now winds up and over
the Radiant Range, offering
magnificent views over native
forests out to sea. Lake Hanlon
(72km) is a Grade 1-2, 40 minute
return walk to a small picturesque
lake nestled in the bush. Call in at
the local pub for a bit of authentic
West Coast hospitality at Little
Wanganui (79km) or drive down to
the beach.
Futher on is the village of
Karamea a destination in its own
right (95km).
Karamea
Karamea is one of those hidden gems.

Picture a place of long empty beaches, river
estuaries, native birds, beautiful sunsets,
walks through warm rainforests and
incredible granite and limestone formations.
With its own micro climate, tamarillos, feijoas,
tomatoes and fruit trees grow happily alongside dairy
grasslands and Nikau palms. It is just you and nature
as you wander the dramatic landscapes formed over
millions of years.
Karamea has a museum, gallery, information centre,
general store and 9 hole golf course. If you fish, you are
spoilt for choice with river, estuary and beach fishing
available. The Tasman Sea can be relied on to produce
good surfing waves, and the walks well lets just say
you wont be disappointed.
Birdwatchers will enjoy the estuary and the Karamea
Riverbank stroll. The big Rimu tree (7km up the Umere
Rd) is a 45-minute return walk. The South Terrace Zig
Zag track (2.5km along the Arapito Road) presents
great views over Karamea and is also the site of an old
cemetery.
The Heaphy Track is the longest of the DOC great
walks and the perfect pick for families or those new to
VISITOR TIP
Due to the delicate ecological
nature of the Honeycomb Hill
Specially Protected Area public
access is restricted to Department of
Conservation approved tours only.
To fully discover this amazing area it is
worth taking a guided walk or kayak.
Karamea to
Hrs
Kms
Westport
Reefton
Punakaiki
Greymouth
Lake Brunner
Hokitika
Hari Hari
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
Haast
1:30
2:35
2:20
2:50
3:20
3:35
4:35
5:25
5:50
7:20
98
175
152
195
224
234
312
373
398
516
Arthurs Pass
Christchurch
Nelson
Picton
Queenstown
4:20
6:00
5:00
6:00
11:10
303
434
328
392
756
like you have entered another

world when you visit it is beauty
born of a million years of isolation.
Bookings are essential (03 782
6652).
You can also walk unguided to
a number of the magnificent
limestone and granite features in
the valley. The road to the carpark
(50 minutes from Karamea) is a
narrow, winding, gravel road so
take care.
The Oparara Arch Grade 1-2,
45 minutes return, follows the
river to limestone arches. The
Moria Gate Arch walk Grade 1, 1
hour 30 minute return, takes you
through rainforest with mosses
and ferns to a picturesque part
of the Oparara River. Mirror Tarn
tramping. It starts or finishes at

Kohaihai, 16km north of Karamea
78.4kms and 4 to 6 days later
you end up at Browns Hut inland
from Collingwood in the Tasman
district. Along the way you follow
the Heaphy River, meander
through tussocks and nikau palm
groves, over mountain saddles
and through native forests.
From May to September the
Heaphy is also open to mountain
bikers. Both bikers and trampers
can arrange pick-ups at either
end of the track. Contact the
Information Centre at 106 Bridge
Street (phone 03 782 6652) for
info.
The southern entrance of the

Heaphy Track also offers heaps
of short walks. The Nikau Palm
walk, Grade 1, is 40 minutes and
crosses the Kohaihai River to
the nikau groves. Continue on to
Scotts Beach - a Grade 1-2, 90
minute return walk taking you
through ferns and rata trees with
magnificent views to the beach.
Longer walks are Katipo Shelter
Grade 1-2, 6 hours return and the
Heaphy Hut Grade 1-2, 5 hours
one-way.
The Oparara Trust offers guided
walks and kayaking into the
Oparara Arch and Cave and the
Honeycomb Hill Caves. You feel
ACTIVITIES | KARAMEA
OPARARA EXPERIENCE
Karamea Information Centre, Market Cross, Karamea
www.oparara.co.nz
tel: +64 3 782 6652

e: info@oparara.co.nz
Join us on one of our guided eco tours amongst
the pristine rainforest and limestone caves
of the unique Oparara Basin. Several tour
options available ranging from the 2.5 hr
Honeycomb Hill Cave Tour through to the
full day Grand Eco Tour. Guided bush walks
and customised tours available on request.
is Grade 1, 20 minutes return. The

Crazy Paving and Box Canyon
Caves are Grade 1, 30 minutes
return look out for cave spiders
and cave wetas.
For the more hardy, the
Wangapeka Track is a 59km, 6-day
traverse of the national park
from west to east along several
river valleys. Fenian Cove Track,
3 hours return, is a Grade 1-2
tramp through forest and old gold
workings.
The K-Road mountain biking and
walking track is 27km of Grade
1-2 over old logging roads, through
regenerating bush and exotic
plantations with water features
and stunning views. Watch out for
the wild orchids along the way.
ACCOMMODATION | KARAMEA
LAST RESORT
71 Waverly Street, Karamea
www.lastresort.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 505 042

tel: +64 3 782 6617
fax: +64 3 782 6820
e: info@lastresort.co.nz
A range of accommodation available:
self-contained cottages, studios, budget, & budget dorms.
Restaurant & Caf 7:30am til late.
Bar open 7 days.
KARAMEA RIVER MOTELS

31 Bridge Street, Karamea
www.karameamotels.co.nz
tel: +64 3 782 6955 fax: +64 3 782 6944

e: stay@karameamotels.co.nz
Spacious quality apartments. Serviced. Rural view to National Park.
500m to Karamea Township.It is the little extras that make
Karamea River Motels a great place to stay.
KARAMEA VILLAGE HOTEL
Cnr Waverley St & Wharf Rd RD3, Karamea
FREEPH: 0800 826 800

e: karameahotel@xtra.co.nz
Share our secluded village and restored landmark Hotel with the
locals. First service o Heaphy Track. Modern accom separate to the
hotel, 3 with kitchens, all serviced daily. Aordable family dining.
Picton
Nelson
Blenheim
Karamea
WESTPORT
GREAT COAST ROAD
REEFTON GOLD
The
Great
Coast Road
Reefton
Punakaiki
GREYMOUTH
JADE COUNTRY
Hokitika
Lake
Brunner LAKES
DISTRICT
Christchurch
GLACIER COUNTRY
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
ONE OF THE TOP 10 COASTAL DRIVES IN THE WORLD

ACCORDING TO LONELY PLANET, WE JUST USE IT TO GET
AROUND!
GATES OF HAAST
Haast
Jacksons
Bay
Wanaka
Queenstown
It is kind of the Coast way really, we are so used to spectacular views we

just take them in our stride. That is why we like visitors they remind
us what an awesome place we live in.
The Coast Road takes you alongside the Paparoa National Park. At
times the rainforest comes right down to the sea and you will want to
stop and wander the beach or just take in the view. That bush is home
to the worlds smallest penguin so if travelling around dusk or dawn
keep an eye out for the little critters.
Along the way you can experience underground rafting at Charleston or
caving at Fox River. And you wont want to go past the famous Pancake
Rocks at Punakaiki the 30 million year old limestone formations with
their impressive blowhole are best viewed at high tide.
This drive only takes about 90 minutes but wed recommend you took a
bit more time along the way you wont regret it.
THE GREAT COAST ROAD
Westport to Punakaiki
ACTIVITIES | WESTPORT PUNAKAIKI
The road to Greymouth via Punakaiki is considered one

of the Top 10 coastal drives in the world by Lonely Planet
and who are we to argue. It takes about 45 minutes to
drive to Punakaiki but there are plenty of reasons to stop
on the way.
UNDERWORLD ADVENTURES
You will find the Westport

Punakaiki Road (SH6) 6km
south of Westport. Along the
way there are several fantastic
scenic stops that look out west
over the Tasman Sea they are
particularly stunning at sunset.
Charleston (25kms) once boasted
a gold mining population of 5,000
and more pubs than permanent
houses. The village is now
better known for its extensive
limestone caves and the Nile
River, Underworld Rafting. The
beach is also very sheltered and
worth a look.
Fox River (45km) is a small
settlement, signalling the start of
the track for the Fox River caves
and the Ballroom Overhang. It
takes 2-3 hours return along
the Grade 2-3 walk to get to the
Fox River Cave and a further
90 minutes to get to the very
impressive Ballroom Overhang.
Take a torch for the caves.
Irimahuwhero View Point (52km)
will give you great views north
up the wild coast and south to
the beginning of the limestone

formations that make up the
Pancake Rocks.
Before you hit Punakaiki (57km)
it is worth stopping to do the easy
(30 minutes return) Truman Track
that meanders through native bush
to the beach giving you a close up
view of limestone rock formations.
www.caveraing.com
The Charelston Adventure Centre, SH6, Charleston
FREEPH: 0800 116 686 tel: +64 3 788 8168

fax: +64 3 789 5508 e: contact@caveraing.com
We invite you on a magical journey of discovery in the magical Nile River
GlowWorm Caves. Join us on our award winning Underworld Raing. The
GlowWorm Cave Tour, Adventure Caving or The Nile River Rainforest Train.
ACCOMMODATION | WESTPORT PUNAKAIKI
My Kaywa QR-Code
www.birdsferrylodge.co.nz/?utm_source=twc+refer...
BIRDS FERRY LODGE
Birds Ferry Road, 8km North of Charleston
www.birdsferrylodge.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 212 207 tel: +64 3 429 1604

e: info@birdsferrylodge.co.nz
Absolute Nature at your door Break your West Coast
journey in a tranquil & spectacular setting.
http://kaywa.me/0jHo3
Download the Kaywa QR Code Reader (App Store &Android Market) and scan your code!
Punakaiki
Beach walks, gemstones, sunsets, towering

limestone cliffs, a relaxed lifestyle amongst
lush bush on the shores of the Tasman Sea.
Its easy to see why so many artists have
made their home on the wild and inspiring
Punakaiki Coastline.
The Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki
are world famous and yes they really do look like
giant pancakes. The 20 min loop track to Dolomite
Point gives the best views of the 30 million year old
limestone formations. The impressive blowhole is at
its best at high tide ask at your accommodation, the
local pub or information centre about tide times.
There is a range of accommodation and food and drink
on offer at Punakaiki and the town is also the gateway
to the Papaora National Park with its great walks. The
Pororari River Track is a 2-hour return walk along a
spectacular limestone gorge, or you can continue along
a portion of the Inland Pack Track to do a 3-hour loop
back to Punakaiki. The DOC Visitor Centre opposite the
entrance to the Pancake Rocks has information about
walks.
The area also boasts a vibrant arts and crafts
community with a cooperative gallery, family canoeing,
wildlife, horse trekking, surfing, gemstone hunting,
caving and climbing, heritage sites, or simple rest and
relaxation.
VISITOR TIP
The best time to see Punakaikis
blow holes in action is at high
tide in stormy conditions when
nature really puts on a show to
remember.
Punakaiki to
Hrs
Kms
Karamea
Westport
Reefton
Punakaiki
Greymouth
Lake Brunner
Hokitika
Hari Hari
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
Haast
2:20
0:50
1:50
152
54
128
0:40
1:05
1:20
2:20
3:10
3:35
5:05
43
72
83
161
220
247
365
Arthurs Pass
Christchurch
Nelson
Picton
Queenstown
1:50
4:10
4:15
5:20
8:50
140
296
279
344
604
Punakaiki to Greymouth
FOOD AND DRINK | PUNAKAIKI

PUNAKAIKI TAVERN ACCOMMODATION & BISTRO
Cnr SH6 & Owen St, Punakaiki
www.punakaikitavern.co.nz
tel: +64 3 731 1188

fax: +64 3 731 1189
e: punakaikitavern@xtra.co.nz
1 km north of the Pancake Rocks.
9 ensuite studio units, free wi.
2 minutes to beach and walking tracks.
Excellent range of meals from 8 a.m. till late, 7 days.
Full on / o licence, SKY TV. Epos / credit cards accepted.
ACCOMMODATION | PUNAKAIKI
PAPAROA PARK MOTEL
www.paparoa.co.nz
4136 Great Coast Road, State Highway 6, Punakaiki
FREEPH: 0800 727 276

tel: +64 3 731 1883 fax: +64 3 731 1885
e: info@paparoa.co.nz
Adjacent to the Paparoa National Park.

Studio units constructed in natural timber.
Separate family cottages.
Nestled in a unique native bush setting.
We welcome your call
ON YER BIKE!
www.havenz.co.nz
tel: +64 3 731 1442

e: stay@havenz.co.nz
Come stay with us at HAVENz Punakaiki for a selection of traditional kiwi hideaways,
luxury home, holiday apartments & baches - in both coastal & tranquil native forest locations.
www.holidayparks.co.nz/punakaiki
Gateway to tranquil Paparoa National Park. Nestled between sea, river and native bush.
1 km to Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.Ideal for day trips, shing,
tramping. Power / tent sites, cabins, full camping facilities
4 Webb Street, RD1, Punakaiki
www.punakaikibeachhostel.co.nz
tel: +64 3 731 1852 fax: +64 3 731 1152

e: info@punakaikibeachhostel.co.nz
State Highway 6, Punakaiki
Mud-tastic adventures on quads, kids quads,

2- seater buggies and 15 - seater Hagglund.
Custom made tracks through rainforest, loads
of puddles and our famous mud. Adventures
for children to the most adventurous.
Tours on demand. Protective clothing
available. Open 7 days.
BEACHVIEW MOTELS
www.beachviewmotels.co.nz
Cnr Morpeth Street & State Highway 6, Rapahoe
FREEPH: 0800 627 805

e: bill-judy@xtra.co.nz
fax: +64 3 762 7806
11 kilometres north of Greymouth. 150 metres from swimming beach.

Great views of gorgeous sunsets and ocean. Fully serviced.
BREAKERS BOUTIQUE ACCOMMODATION
Budget accommodation or our unique Sunset Cottage,

you wont get any closer to the beach!
Enjoy our friendly atmosphere and relax to the sound of the ocean.
PUNAKAIKI RESORT
FREEPH: 0800 669 372

tel: +64 3 762 7438 fax: +64 3 762 7338
e: mike@onyerbike.co.nz
ACCOMMODATION | PUNAKAIKI GREYMOUTH
tel: +64 3 731 1894 fax: +64 3 731 1894

e: beachcamp@xtra.co.nz
PUNAKAIKI BEACH HOSTEL
www.onyerbike.co.nz
511 State Highway 6, 5km north of Greymouth
State Highway 6, Punakaiki, West Coast
PUNAKAIKI BEACH CAMP
Barrytown (74km) was once a centre for flax

harvesting but its claim to fame these days is
knife-making. Over a day you can make your
own hand forged knife from red-hot steel and
native timber no experience needed! This
unique activity gets rave reviews. You can
also take a horse trek or wagon tour here.
Further south Rapahoe (90km) is a small
coastal coalmining town. You can access
one end of the Grade 2 Point Elizabeth walk
from here. The 2-hour walk has great views
of the coastline and a large section follows
an old goldmining water-race.
Next stop is Runanga. From here you can
drive directly onto Greymouth (9kms), or
if you have a taste for mud think about
stopping at On Yer Bike Adventures for off
road biking or go karting.
ACTIVITIES | PUNAKAIKI GREYMOUTH
HAVENZ
Owen Street, PO BOX 12, Punakaiki
The road from Greymouth to Punakaiki is a visual

symphony reiterated by Lonely Planets rating of one of
the Top 10 coastal drives in the world!
1367 State Highway 6,, 14km North of Greymouth
www.breakers.co.nz
tel: +64 3 762 7743 fax: +64 3 762 7743

e: stay@breakers.co.nz
www.punakaiki-resort.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 706 707

tel: +64 3 731 1168 fax: +64 3 731 1163
e: reservations@punakaiki-resort.co.nz
300m south of the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Punakaiki

Resort oers either standard resort rooms or eco suites.
Come share our little slice of paradise.

Boutique beachfront B & B on Punakaiki
Coastline overlooking the Tasman Sea
RAPAHOE BEACH HOLIDAY PARK
10 Hawken Street, Rapahoe
Beachfront 11kms North Greymouth

on Coast Road. All facilities, beach and pool swimming
www.rapahoebeach.co.nz
FREEPH: 0508 465 432 fax: +64 3 762 7025
e: rapahoebeach@actrix.co.nz
Picton
Nelson
Blenheim
Karamea
WESTPORT
GREAT COAST ROAD
REEFTON GOLD
Reefton
Punakaiki
GREYMOUTH
JADE COUNTRY
Hokitika
Lake
Brunner LAKES
DISTRICT
Christchurch
GLACIER COUNTRY
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
Reefton
Gold
THE MINERS HAVE HAD THESE BEARDS FOR OVER 150
YEARS. THATS A LONG TIME BETWEEN SHAVES AND
THEY HAVE SOME GREAT STORIES TO TELL.
GATES OF HAAST
Haast
Jacksons
Bay
Wanaka
Queenstown
Watch out though, once you sit down for a chat and a cup of billy tea
with the Bearded Miners it might be a while before you leave.
Reefton was founded around 1870 when gold was first discovered and
ten years later became the first town in the Southern Hemisphere to
have electric streetlights. Both gold and coal are still mined in the
region today and you can do a fascinating tour that takes in historic
mining sites and the present day Globe Gold Mine.
If you fancy trying your luck there are dedicated gold panning areas
close to town and the area also has some of the best trout fishing,
mountain biking and four wheel driving on the Coast.
Maruia Springs is located 50 minutes to the east, on the Lewis Pass
Road. It offers quality accommodation, natural thermal pools and a
variety of walks. Pristine rivers and excellent fishing are also a feature
of the Lewis Pass area.
REEFTON
Reefton
Reeftons claim to fame is an illuminating

one in 1880 it was the first town in the
Southern Hemisphere to have electric street
lights.
First stop should be the local i-SITE on Broadway. It is
an attraction in itself with a walk through replica gold
mine and a fully restored Holman Winding Engine.
Reefton was established around 1870 when gold was
discovered. Both gold and coal are still mined today
and you can do a fascinating tour that takes in historic
mining sites and the present day Globe Gold Mine. If
you fancy trying your luck there are dedicated gold
panning areas close to town and Reefton also has
some of the best trout fishing in the region.
Take time to visit the Bearded Miners on the main
street in their 1860s replica miners hut. The boys are
always keen for a chat and a cup of billy tea and can
show you how to pan for gold or shape steel on the old
blacksmiths forge.
A short drive east [2 km] on SH7 takes you to Black
Point. The Blacks Point Museum offers a fascinating
insight into the life of the early settlers with historic
photos, school and cemetery records and mining
memorabilia.
VISITOR TIP
It is a little known fact the Reefton
has one of New Zealands
best skate parks well worth
checking out if you are travelling
with children.
Reefton to
Hrs
Kms
Karamea
Westport
Reefton
Punakaiki
Greymouth
Lake Brunner
Hokitika
Hari Hari
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
Haast
2:35
1:30
175
77
1:50
1:05
1:05
1:45
2:45
3:35
4:00
5:30
128
79
78
119
197
258
283
401
Arthurs Pass
Christchurch
Nelson
Picton
Queenstown
1:50
3:40
3:15
4:15
9:15
153
249
212
276
640
REEFTON
From Blacks Point you will find

numerous walks through native
and beech forest teeming with
birdlife. There is also great
mountain biking, with a variety of
tracks that weave through lush
native bushlands and old mining
ruins.
REEFTON
Track information is available at

the i-SITE (03 732 8391), along
with information about rafting
on the Grey River with Inland
Adventures NZ.
ACTIVITIES | REEFTON
QUARTZOPOLIS
67-69 Broadway, Reeon
www.quartzopolis.co.nz
tel: +64 3 7328391

e: rvcinfo@xtra.co.nz
Mountain bike the Victoria Forest Park
thru the old goldeld trails.
Reeon is the hub of the Quartzopolis
Expeditions which circle the town, high up in
the hills and valleys that once gave shelter to
the old coal and gold mine settlements.
Watch for the historic pack tracks, the
old dray roads and tram lines.
The trail loops and you can start
and nish in Reeon itself.
Grades 2 - 5.
Contact Reon Visitor Centre.
Westport to Grey Valley via

Reefton
The road from Westport to the Grey Valley via Reefton
takes just over one hour (78kms). It traverses part of the
Buller Gorge Scenic Drive which is rated as one of the
101 must do things by the New Zealand Automobile
Association.
Even on a misty rainy day the
scenery is dramatic. From
Westport travel 39km towards
Murchison on SH6, at the
Inangahua Junction follow SH69
southeast to Reefton. The small
town of Inangahua was nearly
wiped out by earthquakes in 1928
and 67. Check out the video and
historic display at the local hall to
get an idea of the amazing power
of nature.
Reefton is well worth a stop
(information on previous page).
From here keep heading south on
SH7 to the Waiuta Road turnoff.

The Waiuta ghost town is worth
the 15km deviation off SH7. It was
once the site of New Zealands
deepest mineshaft the
Prohibition Mine, and the richest
gold deposit in the South Island
(730,000 ounces or $1.4 billion
NZD today).
At Waiuta, an easy 30-minute walk
explores gold mining debris and a
longer walk (grade 2-3, 2-3 hours
return) takes you to the Snowy
Battery gold extraction plant
following historic pack tracks.
ACCOMMODATION | REEFTON
BELLBIRD MOTELS
93 Broadway, Reeon
www.nzmotels.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 BELLBIRD (235 524)

fax: 03 732 8444
e: bellbird.motel@xtra.co.nz
7 self-contained 1 and 2 bedroom units.

Phone, fax, email. Continental breakfast available. Pool,
BBQ, play area, o-street undercover parking.
Riverside cottage and historic villa units also available.
Resident artist: alisonhaleartist.vc.net.nz
LANTERN COURT MOTEL

63 Broadway, Reeon
www.lanterncourtmotel.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 526 837

e: info@lanterncourtmotel.co.nz
Centrally located beside the Inangahua river and close to all services.
Recently renovated to recreate the historic golden days of Reeon.
Our 1, 2 and 3 bedroom units provide accommodation to suit all budgets
THE OLD NURSES HOME GUESTHOUSE

104 Shiel St, Reeon
www.reeonaccommodation.co.nz
tel: +64 3 732 8881 fax: +64 3 732 8981

e: info@reeonaccommodation.co.nz
Great value accommodation in Reeon, The Old Nurses Home Guesthouse
located amid peaceful garden/grounds. Internet, Freeview & Sky TV.
Centrally heated rooms. Fully made-up beds & towels provided.
Greymouth
and the
Grey District
Picton
THE TURNAROUND OF THE TRANZ ALPINE TRAIN

JOURNEY, ONE FORM OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT YOULL
WISH TOOK A LITTLE BIT LONGER. SOMETIMES REFERRED
TO AS GOLD COAST NZ DUE TO NUMEROUS GOLD
DEPOSITS FOUND ON THE BEACHES OVER THE YEARS.
Nelson
Blenheim
Karamea
WESTPORT
GREAT COAST ROAD
REEFTON GOLD
Reefton
Punakaiki
GREYMOUTH
JADE COUNTRY
Hokitika
Lake
Brunner LAKES
DISTRICT
Christchurch
GLACIER COUNTRY
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
GATES OF HAAST
Haast
Jacksons
Bay
Wanaka
Queenstown
Recognised as one of the top train trips in the world, the Trans Alpine is
a spectacular journey that crosses the Canterbury Plains and Southern
Alps via viaducts and tunnels to Greymouth.
Its one of many ways to arrive at the West Coasts largest town.
Whatever mode of transport you go for you are bound to be blown away
by the fantastic scenery on the way. As the largest town on the West
Coast, Greymouth is surrounded by dairy farms, tourist and heritage
attractions.
Greymouth is the start of the two to four day West Coast Wilderness
Trail that takes cyclists 120km to Ross through old miners tracks past
rainforest, glacial rivers, lakes, wetlands and the Tasman Sea. Stopping
at Kumara, Lake Kaniere and Hokitika along the way.
Just a short drive from Greymouth south you will find Shantytown, a
replica of an 1880s gold town complete with working steam train and
unique holographic theatre. North you will find Blackball, the birthplace
of the New Zealand Labour Party and home to Blackball Salami and
the Formally the Blackball Hilton Hotel named after a stoush with a
certain international hotel chain.
GREYMOUTH AND THE GREY DISTRICT
The Grey Valley
SHOPPING | GREY VALLEY
The road to Greymouth from Reefton via Grey Valley is

a delightful, easy drive through lush farmlands, areas of
historic significance and small West Coast Townships and
settlements.
The Ikamatua Junction (101km)
is where you cross the Grey River
to make your way to Blackball
(population 400). The town is
home to the famous pub, Formerly
the Blackball Hilton. Named
after an infamous dispute with a
certain international hotel chain
it is a good stop for food, drink,
beds and information. Apparently
the ladies loos never fail to raise a
smile as well!
World famous in New Zealand
the Blackball Salami Companys
salami is a true cut above any
other version you will find.
From Blackball you will find the
Croesus track. Following an
historic miners pack track you can
either do the 45minute walk to
Garden Gully past an old miners
hut or an 8 hours return walk to
Croesus Knob 1203m (grade 3-4).
You can make this a two-day
walk and continue from Croesus
Knob and come out on SH6 at
Barrytown. There are incredible
views of the Tasman Sea and
Southern Alps.
The Croesus track is also one of

the Grey Districts best mountain
bike tracks. Either slog up
yourself for the awesome downhill
or think about doing a back
country heli-bike where you get
dropped to the top by chopper for
a no-pain ride down.
Nelson Creek (88km), 6km off SH7
has a Grade 2, 2-hour circuit walk
through a landscape of tunnels
and tailraces created by the gold
miners. Children love exploring
the tunnels dont forget to take
a torch.
Stillwater Township (138km) is a
small town with a sad reminder
of the areas tragic history. The
local cemetery has a mass grave
of 33 men, who were killed in the
Brunner Coalmine collapse in
1896. A total of 67 men
were entombed in the mine
after a gas explosion caused
New Zealands worst industrial
accident. You can still see the
Brunner Mine Remains.
Greymouth
Greymouth (population 10,000) the Heart

of the West Coast is the largest town on the
West Coast. Situated at the mouth of the
Grey River it was named after a New Zealand
Governor, Sir George Grey [1861].
VISITOR TIP
The Greymouth area has some
lovely river swimming holes and
rock slides and locals are happy
to share these hidden gems. Ask
at I-SITE for directions.
Greymouth is the final stop for the famous Tranz Alpine

train trip from Christchurch. Named one of the top six
train journeys in the world it is a spectacular journey
which crosses the Canterbury Plains and Southern
Alps via spectacular viaducts and tunnels to the sub
tropical rain forest and lakes of the West Coast.
Your first stop should be the i-SITE located at the
historic railway station at 164 Mackay Street. They
have free wi-fi and you will get maps and brochures
on walks, biking tracks and activities like caving,
rivertubing, whitewater rafting and cycle tours.
Across the road from the i-SITE on the floodwall you
will find a monument to the over 400 men who have
died in mining disasters on the West Coast. They say
mining runs through the veins of Coasters and that is
the case in Greymouth although tourism is one of the
main industries these days.
Greymouth to
Hrs
Kms
Karamea
Westport
Reefton
Punakaiki
Greymouth
Lake Brunner
Hokitika
Hari Hari
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
Haast
2:50
1:25
1:05
0:40
195
97
79
43
0:25
0:40
1:40
2:30
2:55
4:25
29
40
118
179
204
322
Arthurs Pass
Christchurch
Nelson
Picton
Queenstown
1:15
3:30
4:20
5:20
8:10
96
253
291
355
561
ACTIVITIES | GREYMOUTH
WILD WEST ADVENTURE COMPANY LTD

8 Whall St, Greymouth
FREEPH: 0800 122 283

fax: +64 3 768 9149
e: info@fun-nz.com
Youll get the best Tour Ever Or its FREE!
Blackwater Cave Raing on tubes. Float galaxies of glowworms, fun rainforest river rapids, ride the eye bulge zipline.
Whitewater Raing: families, beginners
thru to adventure seekers.
Love Adventures: Raing with Romance &
champagne in riverside hot pools.
Rainforest Cruise: relax on mirror like waters with bird
life, trout shing, NZ wines. A photographers paradise.
4x4 Tours: U-drive or we drive. Gold, glowworms, river crossings & rainforest.
Rainforest Kayaking: Flat or white water trips.
West Coast Rail Trail. Food joined by a
bike. Flat trails & comfort bikes
www.fun-nz.com
Their are plenty of options for

cycling with the Gold Coast NZ
Cycle Trails. The floodwall also
marks the start of the West Coast
Wilderness Trail. The four-day
cycle trail starts in Greymouth
and traverses tracks carved by
pioneering gold miners, past
rainforest, glacial rivers and lakes,
wetlands and the Tasman Sea.
If biking is not your thing take a
walk along the floodwall towards
the river mouth. Greymouth is
a commercial fishing port and
popular sport fishing area for blue
fin tuna and the pleasant walk
passes the historic electric cranes
and fishing boats. At the mouth,
the sand bar is often treacherous
with many lives and boats being
lost over the years. There is good
bird watching here.
The famous West Coast Pub has
always had a place in the history
of Greymouth, with the town
having the national record for
consuming more beer per head
than any other New Zealand town.
Today the pubs of Greymouth
make a warm refuge when the

Barber (the cold wind that
funnels down the Grey Gorge)
blows.
To sample true West Coast beer
visit the newly refurbished
Monteiths Brewery. They run a
great tour on the Coasts brewing
history and you get to sample a
few true West Coast brews.
The Greymouth Aquatic Centre
has pools, hydro slides and a spa
the kids will love it and it is the
perfect way to spend a rainy day.
Greymouth has a number of shops
and galleries. The Stewart Nimmo
Gallery has photographs that
capture the moods, people and
places of the West Coast.
Travel south of Greymouth
and step back in time at the
iconic Shantytown. The tourist
attraction is a replica of an
1880s gold-town complete with
working steam train and a unique
holographic theatre that tells the
story of the goldfields. You can
try your hand at gold panning
GREY DISTRICT AQUATIC CENTRE

tel: +64 3 768 9076
Relax in the spa or sauna, swim laps in the 25m x 8m lane lap pool.
The kids will love the hydroslides!
BBQ and play area. Open 7 days.
SHANTYTOWN HERITAGE PARK
www.shantytown.co.nz
Rutherglen Road, Paroa
FREEPH: 0800 742 689 fax: +64 3 762 6649

e: oce@shantytown.co.nz
A fascinating mix of experience and displays tell stories of pioneering spirit.
Ride the steam train, pan for gold, watch the holographic theatre. 30 shops &
buildings to explore. OPEN 7 days 8.30am - 5pm. Closed Christmas Day.
THE STATION SOUVENIR & GIFTS - GREYMOUTH i-SITE

164 MacKay Street, Greymouth
www.westcoasttravel.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 473 966 tel: +64 3 768 7080

fax: +64 3 768 7090 e: gishop@westcoasttravel.co.nz
For unique and special West Coast & Kiwiana souvenirs and gis call into Station
Souvenir & Gi Shop based in the Railway Station next to the i-SITE. Range includes
warm possum down clothing, jade and paua jewellery, souvenirs & much more!
HISTORY HOUSE
Gresson Street, Greymouth
tel: +64 3 768 4028
www.history-house.co.nz
e: history-house@xtra.co.nz
Be amazed by pioneer tales of the taming of the wild West Coast told through historic treasures and inspiring
photography. Open: 10am-4pm. week days and summer weekends. Entry Adults $6 and Children $2.
REGENT GREYMOUTH
Corner Herbert & Mackay Streets, Greymouth

Enjoy the latest movies in our twin screen cinema.
Fully licensed, open 7 days. Check website for live shows.
www.regentgreymouth.co.nz
tel: +64 3 768 0920
e: manager@regentgreymouth.co.nz
SHOPPING | GREYMOUTH
STEWART NIMMO GALLERY
www.stewartnimmo.co.nz
Cnr Tainui & Mackay Street, Greymouth
tel: +64 3 768 6499

e: photos@stewartnimmo.co.nz
A contemporary landscape photography
gallery in the heart of Greymouth, Stewart
Nimmo Gallery is a must-stop.
Stewart's stunning landscape prints,
available framed, on stretched canvas, or
rolled for travel and postage, make perfect
gis or mementoes to take home.
You'll also ne designer giware and NZ made
clothing from the Chalkydigits, Lothlorian,
and Koru ranges, as well as beautiful Evolve
charms and other handcraed jewelery
PINS & NEEDLES
70 Mackay Street, Greymouth
tel: + 64 3 768 4138
Extensive range of knitting yarns, specialising in quality NZ Wool, including Possum

& Merino. Hand knits, Cras, Haberdashery, Beads, Gis & Souvenirs.
too they guarantee you will find

some gold!
For a half day trip head to
Blackball. This small town was
the birth place of the New Zealand
Labour party. Back in 1908 miners
went on strike for three months
to win a 30-minute lunch break.

They won and their actions led
to the formation of the Miners
Federation which became the NZ
Federation of Labour. Nowadays
it is more famous for the Formerly
the Blackball Hilton hotel and
Blackball Salami.
ACCOMMODATION | GREYMOUTH
KINGSGATE HOTEL GREYMOUTH
32 Mawhera Quay, Greymouth
www.millenniumhotels.co.nz/kingsgategreymouth
FREEPH: 0800 805 085

tel: +64 3 768 5085
fax: +64 3 768 5844
e: graham.collings@millenniumhotels.co.nz
tel: a/h +64 3 768 0571

e: needles@xtra.co.nz
FOOD AND DRINK | GREYMOUTH

123 Mackay Street, Greymouth
tel: +64 3 768 5959 e: greymouth@rhcafe.co.nz
Kingsgate Hotel Greymouth is situated in the

central business district of Greymouth.
The reception, bar & restaurant areas of the
hotel form part of the original hotel built in
1906 and have a wonderful heritage feeling.
The dcor has been maintained to capture this
historic ambience. The hotel is only minutes
walk from shops, cafes, bars & art galleries.
98 guest rooms, with modern facilities
- Economy, Standard, Premium
Rooms & Suites available.
Full conference facilities, up to 150 people.
Gym & o street parking available.
Complimentary transfer to & from
the TranzAlpine train station.
Robert Harris Coffee Roasters is situated in the heart of Greymouth.

We pride ourselves on excellent coffee, food and service, extensive
breakfast and lunch menu as well as an exciting array of cabinet food.
GREYMOUTH SEASIDE TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK
ALIS EATING & DRINKING CAFE + GALLERY
FREEPH: 0800 867 104

fax: +64 3 768 5873
e: info@top10greymouth.co.nz
9 Tainui Street, Greymouth
tel: +64 3 768 5858
2 Chestereld St, Greymouth
www.top10greymouth.co.nz
We are located right on the beachfront in peaceful

Greymouth. Theres a huge range of accommodations
from our brand new luxury apartments to our
quality motels, cabins and sites. Our holiday
parks stunning beachfront location is only 2.5kms
from the town centre making us the ideal
choice for your Greymouth accommodation.
A bright cheeky little cafe with a cracker of a toybox.

Alis prides itself on freshly made-to-order meals.
Check out our daily specials board.
MACDONALDS GREYMOUTH
Cnr Tainui & Chapel St, Greymouth
tel: +64 3 768 0790
OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 6AM FOR BREAKFAST

McCafe espresso coee and daily baking
GEORGIE PIE at McDonalds Greymouth
Kids Birthday parties available
Owned & Operated locally

by the Chandra Family
REVINGTONS HOTEL
47 Tainui Street, Greymouth
www.revingtons.co.nz
e: revys@xtra.co.nz
Historic hotel featuring Irish Bar. Superb restaurant, aordable & comfortable
hotel accommodation. Tours and individuals welcome. Separate budget
wing. Motorcycle lock-up available. Hours 7:30 a.m. until late.
SPEIGHTS ALE HOUSE GREYMOUTH

130 Mawhera Quay, Greymouth
tel: +64 3 768 0667

e: greymouthspeights@xtra.co.nz
Outside seating Courtesy Van 4x big screen TV Function Room
The Greymouth Speights Ale House is opposite the railway station in Greymouth.
The Ale House oers Lunch and Dinner from 11am each day till late.
ASURE HIGHPARK MOTOR INN
www.highpark.co.nz
90 High St, Greymouth
FREEPH: 0800 844 846 tel: +64 3 768 4846

fax: +64 3 768 9746 e: reservations@highpark.co.nz
Kumara is 20kms or 15mins drive south from Greymouth.

The road hugs the coastline for much of the way with
lovely views to the ocean and the mountains. Along some
of the way you will see the West Coast Wilderness Trail
weaving its way through the bush to the sea.
Spacious luxury smokefree ground oor fully

self-contained suites serviced daily. Free
wireless broadband, SKY TV, guest laundry.
THE ASHLEY HOTEL
74 Tasman Street, Greymouth
FREEPH: 0800 807 787 fax: +64 3 768 0319

e: info@hotelashley.co.nz
We oer quality accommodation in both Hotel and
Motel units, Restaurant, Bar, Pool, Spa and Gym.
COLERAINE MOTEL
www.colerainemotel.co.nz
61 High St, Greymouth
Greymouth to Kumara
FREEPH: 0800 27 00 77 tel: +64 3 768 0077

fax: +64 3 768 0017 e: enquiries@colerainemotel.co.nz
Modern spacious studios, 1 and 2 bedroomed apartments, several
with spa baths, all presented with pride. Complimentary wi, Sky
TV, and Trans Alpine transfers. Conference room available.
GREYMOUTH TOP MOTELS & SEAVIEW APARTMENTS
The first township is Paroa (8km).

This is the turn off to one of the
best known visitor attractions
on the West Coast. Shantytown
Heritage Park is a replica 1880s
gold town in full working order
with 30 replica or refurbished
shops and buildings to explore.
There is a working steam train and
a holographic theatre which tells
the old gold mining stories. This
is an all weather activity suitable
for the whole family and they
guarantee you will find gold if you

try your hand at gold panning!
Further south along SH6 you will
discover the Taramakau Road
Rail Bridge. Vehicles share the
bridge with trains we would
recommend you let the train have
right of way it is bigger than you.
Because it is a one way bridge
you need to show respect to other
vehicles and wait for your turn.
Remember you are on holiday
whats a few minutes?
2 Chestereld St, Greymouth
FREEPH: 0800 867 104

www.greymouthaccommodation.co.nz
e: info@greymouthaccommodation.co.nz
ACCOMMODATION | GREYMOUTH KUMARA

NEW RIVER BLUEGUMS B & B / SELF-CONTAINED
Located right on the beachfront in peaceful Greymouth. We have

brand new luxury apartments and a range of excellent motel units.
DUKE HOSTEL
27 Guinness, Town Centre, Greymouth

Centre of Greymouth, private and shared/dorm room.
FREE: Unlimited WIFI, bicycle, soup, breakfast, pick-up.
NOAHS ARK BACKPACKERS

16 Chapel Street, Greymouth
985 Main South Road, Greymouth
www.facebook.com/DukeHostel
tel: +64 3 768 9470 e: dukenz@clear.net.nz
FREEPH: 0800 662 472
Central, private & shared rooms, fully made beds, warm & clean.
100mb free wi. Free train pickup.
tel: +64 3 762 6678
www.bluegumsnz.com
e: mail@bluegumsnz.com
SELF-CONTAINED cottages & log home. Farm animals, Wi-, laundry, tennis court, outdoor bathtub. Beach 15 min walk.
www.noahs.co.nz
tel: +64 3 768 4868
e: stay@noahs.co.nz
The
Lakes
District
Picton
Nelson
Blenheim
Karamea
WESTPORT
GREAT COAST ROAD
REEFTON GOLD
Reefton
Punakaiki
GREYMOUTH
JADE COUNTRY
Hokitika
Lake
Brunner LAKES
DISTRICT
Christchurch
GLACIER COUNTRY
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
LAKES AND RIVERS TEEMING WITH TROUT AND YOU

WONT EVEN HAVE TO LIE TO YOUR MATES ABOUT THE
ONE THAT GOT AWAY!
GATES OF HAAST
Haast
Jacksons
Bay
Wanaka
Queenstown
This part of the West Coast really is a fishing mecca there are pristine
lakes, rivers and spring creeks.
Lake Brunner and the village of Moana is a popular holiday spot for
Coasters in the know. You will find some of the best brown trout fishing
in New Zealand and in many parts you can fish all year although in some
rivers the season is from October to April.
The world famous Tranz Alpine train journey makes a brief stop at
Moana so you can stop off for a few hours before catching the return
train back to Christchurch or enjoy a longer stay.
You can play golf, visit arts and crafts, go sailing, swimming in summer
and there is a myriad of wonderful walks around the district to
enjoy. Lake Brunner is actually the scenic route to Greymouth from
Christchurch. Turn off at Jacksons on the Great Alpine Highway.
THE LAKES DISTRICT
Lake
Brunner &
Moana
Lake Brunner (37km from Greymouth on

SH7) is the largest lake on the West Coast
and a favourite playground for locals.
The town of Moana sits at the northern end of Lake
Brunner and has plenty of accommodation, a cafe/
restaurant, fuel and service centre. There are two
camping grounds, a pottery studio, friendly country
pub, 9-hole golf course and a maze. A quirky little
tourist attraction is the historic Jacks Mill School with
its miniature bungalow built by school children in the
1930s. Moana has the last rail precinct in NZ with the
house,station, goods shed and overbridge still intact.
You will find some of the best brown trout fishing in
New Zealand at Lake Brunner. All the trout are wild
browns and the average weight is 3-4lbs. The
lake is open to fishing all year and the winter months
can be very productive. Experienced Fishing Guides
and licenses are available locally.
VISITOR TIP
On some of the lakes and in
the Arnold river, trout fishing is
available all year round.
Lake Brunner to Hrs
Kms
Karamea
Westport
Reefton
Punakaiki
Greymouth
Lake Brunner
Hokitika
Hari Hari
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
Haast
3:20
1:50
1:05
1:05
0:25
224
126
78
72
29
1:05
2:05
2:55
3:20
4:50
69
147
208
233
351
Arthurs Pass
Christchurch
Nelson
Picton
Queenstown
0:50
3:05
4:20
5:20
8:35
66
222
291
355
590
THE LAKES DISTRICT
THE LAKES DISTRICT
ACTIVITIES | LAKE BRUNNER & MOANA

LAKE BRUNNER ACCOMMODATION & GOLF COURSE
2046 Arnold Valley Road, Moana
www.lake-brunner.co.nz
tel: +64 3 738 0646

e: info@lake-brunner.co.nz
Modern Studio suites with king size beds and breakfast making facilities situated
on a 9 hole golf course. FREE golf for in-house guests. FREE wireless & Sky Sports.
Set amidst a scenic backdrop of the Southern Alps and stunning native forest.
MOANA TROUT FISHING SAFARI

18 Johns Rd, Moana
www.brentbeadle.com
STATIONHOUSE CAFE
www.lakebrunner.net
34 Koe Street, Moana/Lake Brunner
tel: +64 3 738 0158 fax: +64 3 738 0327

e: stationhouse@xtra.co.nz
Indoor, outdoor dining over looking Lake Brunner.
Great Cuisine, friendly hospitality.
TranzAlpine 3 hr stopover.
Fishing tours on rivers or lakes, gear supplied.

Scenic lake tours in all weather boat.
Bed & breakfast self-contained cottage available. Great lake views.
Lake Brunner
great views of the lake. The Tranz

Alpine Train stops at Moana and
passengers can disembark for a
three hour stopover while the train
continues to Greymouth.
FOOD & DRINK | LAKE BRUNNER & MOANA
tel: +64 3 738 0886

e: brent@brentbeadle.com
LUXURY HOUSE BOATS
There are many beautiful spots

along the lake frontage for
picnicing or birdwatching. The
Bain Bay Track (7km, 2.5 hours) at
the southern end of the lake gives
www.luxuryhouseboats.co.nz
tel: +64 21 169 3351 tel: +64 27 694 2777

e: luxuryhouseboats@xtra.co.nz
Lake Brunner is known for shing and the Luxury Houseboat.
Experienced houseboaters or rst-timers, we provide all thats
needed for the holiday of a lifetime in Natures Paradise.
ACCOMMODATION | LAKE BRUNNER & MOANA

LAKE BRUNNER LODGE
www.lakebrunner.co.nz
Kumara-Inchbonnie Road, Mitchells.
tel: +64 3 738 0163

e: lodge@lakebrunner.co.nz
Warm and inviting Lodge, all rooms with ensuites.
Stunning views of Lake Brunner, surrounded by mountains & forests.
Nearby walking tracks, great shing or just relax.
LAKE BRUNNER COUNTRY MOTEL
www.lakebrunnermotel.co.nz
2014 Arnold Valley Rd, Moana
FREEPH: 0508 738 014 fax: 03 738 0143

e: lakebrunnermotel@xtra.co.nz
Secluded in native bush, self contained motel cottages.
Superior cabins, power and tent sites, excellent facilities.
Wi, hot spa, BBQ, play areas.
LAKE BRUNNER RESORT & MOANA HOTEL
www.lakebrunnerresort.net.nz
34 Ahau St, Moana
FREEPH: 0800 525 327 tel: +64 3 738 0083

e: info@lakebrunnerhotelandapartments.co.nz
The historic Moana Hotel features modern two bedroom apartments, elite
studio units, motel units, bunkrooms and a motor home park. Spectacular
views of Lake Brunner, join us for a truly memorable experience.
LAKE BRUNNER MOTOR CAMP

86 Ahau Street, Lake Brunner, Moana
tel: +64 3 738 0600

e: lakebrunnermotorcamp@clear.net.nz
The only camp in Moana with views of Lake Brunner.Cabins Tent sites , Power
sites. Features Camp store , TV and guest lounge . Native bush behind camp,
with a variety of native birds glowworms, and walks, pets by arrangement.
THE LAKES DISTRICT
THE LAKES DISTRICT
Getting to Christchurch via

Lake Brunner, Otira and
Arthurs Pass
The road to Christchurch is a stunning drive.
40km from Lake Brunner is
Jacksons and the turn off onto
SH73 to Christchurch and Arthurs
Pass. Next stop is Otira (64km).
This small village was built to
house the workers who built the
Otira tunnel in 1923. The Otira
Hotel offers accommodation,
meals, a small mini store and
minor mechanical services.
The Otira Viaduct (73km) is an
impressive scenic stop and
engineering feat. The 440 metre
viaduct (costing $25 million) made
the highway an all-weather road
that is now only closed for brief
times to clear snow during the
winter months.
Arthurs Pass (80km) is a lovely
small alpine village set in the
Arthurs Pass National Park.
There is a DOC information centre
open daily from 8.30am 4.30pm
where you can find information
about walks for all abilities. There
is also various accommodation

and cafes.
The Bridal Veil Track is a grade
2-3, 90 minutes return walk
and the Devils Punchbowl Falls
is grade 1, 60 minutes return.
Temple Basin is the ski field in
the Arthurs Pass area and in the
summer months, an alpine walk
grade 2-3, 3 hours return with
great views. From this car park
you can start the Dobson Nature
Walk (grade 1, 30 minutes return).
A board walk wanders through
the alpine and sub alpine swamp
lands past Lake Misery.
Take the opportunity to stop in
at Arthurs Pass store, open from
7.30am to 6.30pm summer &
8.00am 5.30 during the winter
months, for food, petrol and Kea
watching.
150km further east you will find
Christchurch.
ACCOMMODATION | ARTHURS PASS & OTIRA

WILDERNESS LODGE ARTHURS PASS
West Coast Road, 16km east of Arthurs Pass Village, Arthurs Pass
www.wildernesslodge.co.nz
tel: +64 3 318 9246

e: arthurspass@wildernesslodge.co.nz
24 room Nature Lodge. Mountain view accommodation,

restaurant, guided nature & farm discovery. Accommodation/
meals/activities from NZ$299 per person per day.
OTIRA HOTEL
State Highway 73, Otira
tel: +64 3 738 2890
www.otira.co.nz
e: otiravillage@yahoo.com
Accommodation, cafe & bar, 16 kms from Arthurs Pass. Rata capital of the world.
VISITOR TIP
If you stop at Arthurs Pass you
are likely to see a Kea. The
fun-loving alpine parrot is often
seen in the village, especially
near the store. Enjoy watching
their antics but please do not
feed them.
Picton
Jade
Country
Nelson
Blenheim
Karamea
WESTPORT
GREAT COAST ROAD
REEFTON GOLD
Reefton
Punakaiki
GREYMOUTH
JADE COUNTRY
Hokitika
Lake
Brunner LAKES
DISTRICT
Christchurch
GLACIER COUNTRY
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
GATES OF HAAST
Haast
Jacksons
Bay
Wanaka
Queenstown
MADE IN THE HEART OF THE EARTH, SHAPED BY

COUNTLESS RIVERS, CARVED BY MASTER CRAFTSMEN
WITH ITS SPIRITUAL HOME ON THE COAST.
Precious Pounamu (Jade/Greenstone) is at the heart of Jade Country
with its towns of Hokitika, Kumara, Ross and Hari Hari. Teeming with
galleries, factories and shops where you can see Pounamu being carved,
or even carve a piece of your own, many visitors choose to take a bit of
pounamu home to remember their West Coast holiday.
Situated right on the beach Hokitika is the main town and has a full
range of services and a fantastic museum with a popular whitebait
exhibition. In January the beach is full of sculptures as part of the
Driftwood & Sand festival and in March you can test your tastebuds at
the legendary Wild Foods Festival not for the fainthearted.
A must do is the West Coast Tree Top Walkway, 15 minutes south of
Hokitika. You get amazing views of the rainforest, lake and mountains
from the 20 metre high steel platform. Stunning lakes Kaniere and
Mahinapua are worth a visit as is the amazing Hokitika Gorge with its
vivid blue water.
Kumara on the Great Alpine Highway has the Theatre Royal Hotel - an
award winning, newly refurbished, 1876 hotel which also happens to be
on the West Coast Wilderness Trail. Ross is famous for gold mines and
you can still try your luck in the public fossicking area. Hari Hari has an
aviation heritage with the first trans Tasman flight mistakenly ending
upside down in the local swamp.
JADE COUNTRY
Christchurch to
Hokitika via Kumara
Half way between Greymouth and Hokitika, on the
stunning Great Alpine Highway you will find the historic
town of Kumara.
An easy three hour drive from
Christchurch over the Southern
Alps, Kumara is also the first night
stop for cyclists on the four day
West Coast Wilderness Trail the
perfect place to rest that saddle
sore butt.
Back in 1876 Kumara was the site
of New Zealands last great gold
rush and boasted 50 public bars.
You can still wet your whistle at
the Theatre Royal Hotel which
has been lovingly refurbished to
reflect those wild old days.
Kumara was home to the Coasts
most famous resident Richard
Seddon - still New Zealands
longest serving Prime Minister
and a larger than life character.
You can wander the Heritage
Walkway and read the historical
panels around town to get a feel
for his legacy and Kumaras bawdy
history.
The nearby Taramakau River is
a mecca for sports fishermen
with salmon, trout and whitebait
caught in season. As well as the
cycle trail there are mountain bike
trails, bush walks and three ski
fields only an hour away at Arthurs
Pass National Park.
Visit on the 2nd Saturday in
January and join the annual
pilgrimage to the Kumara Horse
Races. Thousands flock to town
for a flutter and a bit of family fun
and in true gold town style the
winner of the feature race gets a
real gold nugget.
In February Kumara Beach is the

starting point for world premier
multi-sport race Speights Coast
to Coast. Competitors traverse
the South Island - cycling 140kms,
running 36kms and kayaking
67kms over one or two days not
for the faint hearted.
For those who prefer to drive,
head south from Kumara following
the coast and on a fine day you
will get your first look at Aoraki/
Mt Cook and Mt Tasman.
The Arahura River (32km from
Kumara) is the spiritual home
of Pounamu, (New Zealand
Greenstone). The precious stone
is prized for its strength and
beauty and denotes great status
to Maori.
walk the
ACCOMMODATION | KUMARA
THEATRE ROYAL HOTEL
81 Seddon Street, Kumara
JADE15
www.theatreroyalhotel.co.nz
tel: +64 3 736 9277

e: theatreroyalhotel@xtra.co.nz
Situated in the heart of Kumara is the historic Theatre Royal boutique hotel.
Step back in time when you visit this refurbished Victorian era hotel.
Licensed cafe, bar & restaurant.
treetops
1128 Woodstock-Rimu Rd
Ruatapu, Hokitika
freephone: 0508 8733 8677
phone:
03 755 5052
email:
info@treetopsnz.com
www.treetopsnz.com
snz
#treetop
JADE COUNTRY
Hokitika
Hokitika calls itself a cool little town and

with its multitude of great shops, galleries
and cafes right on the beach we reckon they
have it right.
As you wander the beach keep an eye out for a piece
of pounamu washed down from the rivers. On a good
day you will get stunning views of New Zealands
highest mountain, Aoraki/Mt Cook and the sunsets are
legendary.
In late January check out Driftwood & Sand a
festival where people make amazing sculptures out of
materials they find on the seashore. In early March
test your taste buds at the legendary Wildfoods
Festival.
In the late 1860s, the gold rush lured thousands to
Hokitika and over 800kg (5.6 Million NZD) of gold was
shipped to Melbourne monthly. At its height Hokitika
boasted 102 hotels, 84 of these crammed into Revell
Street on what was known as the Crooked Mile.
VISITOR TIP
For a beautiful scenic driving
loop head to Hokitika Gorge,
then drive through dairy country,
around Lake Kaniere, visiting
Dorothy Falls, and back to
Hokitika.
Hokitika to
Hrs
Kms
Karamea
Westport
Reefton
Punakaiki
Greymouth
Lake Brunner
Hokitika
Hari Hari
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
Haast
3:35
2:05
1:45
1:20
0:40
1:05
234
137
119
83
40
69
1:00
1:50
2:15
3:45
78
139
164
282
Arthurs Pass
Christchurch
Nelson
Picton
Queenstown
1:15
3:30
5:00
6:00
7:30
100
332
331
395
521
JADE COUNTRY
Now days you can still get a drink

but to get a feel for how life used
to be take in a self guided heritage
walk of 22 historic sites or join
one of the Coasts interesting
characters for a guided tour. In
the evening check out the Glow
Worm Dell at the north end of
town.
The Hokitika Museum has an
excellent display of pounamu
and mining memorabilia and its
renowned whitebait exhibition
tells fascinating stories of the tiny
delicacy. There is even a Sock
Machine Museum.
From September to mid November
you can watch the whitebaiters
in action at Hokitika River to
see what all the fuss is about.
Whether you enjoy fish and
chips at Sunset Point, or prefer
JADE COUNTRY
one of the many cafes, pubs or

restaurants there are plenty of
culinary options - try whitebait
fritters or even a whitebait pizza.
Hokitika is renowned for its
pounamu. Also known as
greenstone or jade, pounamu was
highly prized by Maori. Watch
world-renowned carvers at work
in their studios or even carve a
piece yourself. You will also find
photographers, painters, gold
and silver smiths, glass blowers,
sculptors, wood turners and
potters in the many galleries.
As the 3rd night stop on the West
Coast Wilderness Trail cycle
trail there is a wide variety of
accommodation and you could
even revitalise your tired bones
with a massage.
15 minutes drive south of Hokitika

you will find the West Coast Tree
Top Walkway and Caf. The
20 metre high steel platform
gives you a birds-eye view of the
rainforest you wont find anywhere
else in New Zealand.
Lake Kaniere is 19kms inland
from Hokitika and surrounded by
native forest and mountains is a

stunning spot for picnicking, water
skiing, kayaking, fishing, walking
and mountain biking.
The Hokitika Gorge is 33kms from
Hokitika. It is a short walk from
the carpark to a viewing platform
overlooking unbelievable
turquoise water.
ACTIVITIES | HOKITIKA
THE NATIONAL KIWI CENTRE
www.thenationalkiwicentre.co.nz
64 Tancred St, Hokitika
tel: +64 3 755 5251

e: natkiwi@xtra.co.nz
Guaranteed viewing of live Kiwi.
Feed the Giant Eels at 10am, 12noon & 3pm.
View Tuatara.
HOKITIKA MUSEUM
www.hokitikamuseum.co.nz
17 Hamilton Street, Hokitika
tel: +64 3 755 6898

e: enquiries@hokitikamuseum.co.nz
A regional history hub located in the heart of Westland and housed in
the historic Carnegie Building. Gold & Pounamu audio-visual, giant
Meccano dredge, whitebait exhibition,childrens quiz and more.
SHOPPING | HOKITIKA
MOUNTAIN JADE HOKITIKA
www.mountainjade.co.nz
41 Weld St, Hokitika
fax: +64 3 755 7804

e: hokitika@mountainjade.co.nz
Free interactive guided tours daily - Learn about the
History, Formation & Manufacture of Jade.
Mountain Jade has one of NZs largest selection
of quality & aordable Jade/Pounamu Carvings
& Sculptures for you to choose from.
Watch some of NZs most talented Jade Carvers.
A Must Do West Coast experience.
Open 7 days
WESTLAND GREENSTONE
34 Tancred St, Hokitika
tel: +64 3 755 8713

e: westlandgreenstone@xtra.co.nz
Established in 1962 one of Hokitikas leading attractions.
We design and manufacture NZ Jade/ Pounamu.
Visitors are welcome to view all stages of the carving process.
Our Showroom features a wide range of
NZ Jade carvings and Jewellery.
We also have Paua and bone as well as general NZ souvenirs.
Open 7 days
HOKITIKA GLASS STUDIO LTD
www.hokitikaglass.co.nz
9 Weld St, Hokitika
FREEPH: 0800 178 445 fax: 03 755 7776

e: hokitikaglass@ihug.co.nz
The studio hosts some of the nest glassware in the world. Owned and
operated by Barry and Judy Wilson, and their two sons Anthony and Gene.
JADE COUNTRY
JADE COUNTRY
Pounamu/New Zealand Jade
ACCOMMODATION | HOKITIKA
For many New Zealanders Pounamu (Greenstone/

Jade) is more than a souvenir - it has a treasured spiritual
significance.
KAPITEA RIDGE
Pounamu is found in many

places on the West Coast - its
spiritual home. Legend has it that
Poutini, the guardian of Pounamu,
snatched a beautiful Maori
woman, Waitaiki, from the North
Island. They fled south to the
Arahura River near Hokitika but
her husband gave chase so Poutini
turned Waitaiki into his image
Pounamu. The jade fragments
that break off and roll down the
river to the sea are known as
Waitaikis children.
This stunning stone is prized for
its strength, durability and beauty
and used for weapons, tools and
personal ornaments. There are

five main types - Kawakawa,
Kahurangi, Inanga, Kokopu and
Tangiwai.
Most stores on the Coast have
working carvers who are happy to
tell you about the stone, where it
came from and the design they are
carving.
A piece of Pounamu is a beautiful
and meaningful memory of your
time on the West Coast. Due to
demand, carvers do work with
imported jade so if you want New
Zealand sourced pounamu make
sure you check.
ACCOMMODATION | HOKITIKA
STATIONS INN BOUTIQUE ACCOMMMODATION & RESTAURANT
Blue Spur Road, Blue Spur, Hokitika
tel: +64 3 755 5499 fax: +64 3 755 5499

e: info@stationsinnhokitika.co.nz
www.stationsinnhokitika.co.nz
Stations Inn Garden Bar Waterwheel Restaurant
and Boutique Accommodation.
Central location to the Glaciers Pancake Rocks
Treetop Walkway Hokitika Gorge.
Bike Trail and local arts and cras
Lonely Planet World Class.
Coast with the Most.
www.kapitea.co.nz
Hokitika
FREEPH: 0800 186 805 tel: +64 3 755 6805 e: stay@kapitea.co.nz

Enjoy the comfort and luxury of this distinguished stylish lodge,
set among native gardens, overlooking Tasman Seascapes. Relax
in the spa aer a days driving. Open all year, 5 rooms.
252 BEACHSIDE MOTELS & HOLIDAY PARK
www.252beachside.co.nz
252 Revell Street, Hokitika
FREEPH: 0508 252 252 tel: +64 3 755 8773

e: info@252beachside.co.nz
Motels/cabins/power sites. Spa & Swimming Pools. Breakfasts.
Childrens playground. 1 minute to beach 3 minutes to glow worm
dell. From $30-$150 2 persons. Free WiFi
BEACHFRONT HOTEL HOKITIKA
www.beachfronthotel.co.nz
111 Revell Street, Hokitika
FREEPH: 0800 400 344 tel: +64 3 755 8344

fax: +64 3 755 8258
e: reservations@beachfronthotel.co.nz
Unique location on beachfront & in town centre. Walk to beach, shops,
galleries. Range of room quality, simple to luxury. Restaurant, bottlestore, bar.
FITZHERBERT COURT MOTEL
www.tzherbertcourt.co.nz
191 Fitzherbert St, Hokitika
FREEPH: 0800 775 534 fax: +64 3 755 5342

e: tzherbert.court@xtra.co.nz
4 star spacious, superior studio, 1 and 2 bedroom self
contained and serviced suites. Close to town and beach.
HOKITIKA KIWI HOLIDAY PARK
www.hokitikaholidaypark.co.nz
242 Staord St, Hokitika
FREEPH: 0800 465 436 fax: +64 3 755 8127

e: holidaypark@hokitika.com
Unique location on beachfront & in town centre.
This park has the largest range of budget accommodation in the Hokitika area.
The closest Holiday Park to NZs only Treetop Walk.Restaurant, caf, bar.
JADE COURT MOTOR LODGE

85 Fitzherbert Street, Hokitika
www.jadecourt.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 755 885 tel: +64 3 755 8855

e: stay@jadecourt.co.nz
Situated in the heart of Hokitika in a peaceful, relaxing garden
setting Jade Court oers spacious, comfortable accommodation
and a very warm welcome from hosts Graham and Elizabeth
RIMU LODGE
33 Seddons Terrace Rd, Rimu, Hokitika
www.rimulodge.co.nz
tel: +64 3 755 5255

e: stay@rimulodge.co.nz
Luxury boutique lodge. Extensive views over Hokitika River

and to the mountains beyond.
Casually elegant yet intimate. The perfect retreat.
SHINING STAR BEACHFRONT CABINS

16 Richards Drive, Hokitika
www.accommodationwestcoast.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 744 646 tel: +64 3 755 8921

fax: +64 3 755 8653 e: shining@xtra.co.nz
Supreme quality accommodation, right by the beach,
overlooking the Tasman Sea.
Panoramic views, opposite Glow-worm Dell.
JADE COUNTRY
JADE COUNTRY
Hokitika to Glacier Country

via Whataroa
ACTIVITIES | SOUTH HOKITIKA
Franz Josef is 135km or 1hr 45mins continuous drive

south from Hokitika.
As you cross the Hokitika River
you can see mountains in the
distance. These are New Zealands
tallest - Aoraki/Mt Cook and its
companion Mt Tasman.
This stretch of the road travels
through rich flat dairy lands
and into the Westland National
Park. 10kms south of Hokitika
is tranquil Lake Mahinapua a
good spot for a picnic or spell
from driving. There is a lovely DOC
campsite here with great fishing,
canoeing, bird spotting, mountain
biking and walks.
Five minutes drive south of Lake
Mahinapua (turn left onto the
Rimu/Woodstock Road) you
will find the West Coast Tree
Top Walkway and Caf. You get
amazing views of the rainforest,
lake and mountains from the 20
metre high steel platform and

those with a head for heights will
also love scaling the 40 metre high
tower.
A little further on is Ross (27km)
the last stop for petrol until Franz
Josef. In 1909 New Zealands
largest ever gold nugget was
unearthed here. Named the
Roddy Nugget it was as big as a
mans fist and weighed a massive
3.1kg. It was purchased by the
government of the day and gifted
to King George V, who turned it into
a golden tea set!
The Ross Goldfields Information
and Heritage Centre is well worth
the stop. Learn about the towns
heritage and hire a gold pan to try
your hand you might just find
your own Roddy. There is also
a public fossicking area and the
FREEPHONE 0508 873 3867
1128 WOODSTOCK-RIMU RD RUATAPU, HOKITIKA,

www.treetopsnz.com
SOUTH ISLAND, NZ
Goldfields water race walk takes
you to a mine tunnel entrance and
past several mining relics (Grade
1-2, 1 hour return).
Travelling south you will encounter
Pukekura Township (45km). This
small town is world famous for its
Bushman Centre, where a you can
see a film about How the West
Coast was Tamed.
Like many lakes in this part of the
Coast Lake Ianthe (54km) was
hollowed out during the dying
stages of the last great ice age
14,000 years ago. There are two
beautiful picnic spots and a DOC
camping ground here.
Hari Hari (72km) has the widest

main street in the South Island
and is a great money earner for
police with their speed detectors.
It is a little known fact that Hari
Hari is the landing site of the
first solo Trans-tasman flight.
Australian Guy Menzies went off
course during his 1931 flight and
11 hours 45 minutes after leaving
Sydney crash landed upside down
in the La Fontaine swamp. There
is a replica of his biplane on the
main road. The 2.5 hours Hari Hari
Coastal walk is well worth the
effort.
Picton
Glacier
Country
Nelson
Blenheim
Karamea
WESTPORT
GREAT COAST ROAD
REEFTON GOLD
Reefton
Punakaiki
GREYMOUTH
JADE COUNTRY
Hokitika
Lake
Brunner LAKES
DISTRICT
Christchurch
IT TAKES A WHILE TO MAKE A WEST COAST ICE CUBE;

ABOUT 10,000 YEARS OR SO. THE TUNNELS ON THE
GLACIERS TAKE THOUSANDS OF YEARS TO FORM YET
CHANGE EACH DAY SO TAKE IT IN.
GLACIER COUNTRY
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
GATES OF HAAST
Haast
Jacksons
Bay
Wanaka
Queenstown
A vibrant area of the West Coast, Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers are the
most accessible glaciers in the world and come right down to the
rainforests - a phenomenon only found in one other place in the world.
You can take a guided hike up the glaciers, a helicopter or alpine
sightseeing flight, land on the ice or even take a tandem sky dive above
it you choose how close you want to get!
It is worth staying a while in Glacier Country. There are wonderful
wildlife attractions including the Kiwi breeding programme in Franz
Josef, the White Heron sanctuary near Whataroa and you can view kiwi
in the wild at Okarito.
The stunning rain forest locality is also home to hot pools, a glacier
movie, mountain bike tracks and numerous walks. On a calm day visit
Lake Matheson near Fox Glacier with its stunning reflections and views
of Aoraki/Mt Cook.
Both villages have a wide range of accommodation, cafes, restaurant,
bars, shops and petrol stations.
GLACIER COUNTRY
GLACIER COUNTRY
Whataroa and Okarito
ACTIVITIES | WHATAROA
Franz Josef is 135km or 1hr 45mins continuous drive

south from Hokitika through verdant rainforest
encompassing stunning roadside waterfalls and pristine
lakes.
GLACIER COUNTRY SCENIC FLIGHTS
Whataroa (104km) is a fabulous

place to see the rare native White
Heron (Kotuku), which breeds
in the nearby Waitangiroto
Sanctuary. A great way to see
these stunning birds is with White
Heron Sanctuary Tours. There is
also an excellent 10-minute walk
here with informative panels that
tell you about native wetlands.
Lake Mapourika (119km) is
renowned for its trout and salmon
Best value scenic ights in Glacier Country.

From Whataroa, 25 mins north of Franz Josef, enjoy scenic
overights, glacier snow landings & heli-hike options with more
highlights including Mt Cook, Mt Tasman, Franz & Fox Glaciers.
More alps & glaciers
More scenic variety
More window seats
More heli-hike options
fishing and from the lakeshore you

get great views of Aoraki/Mt Cook.
Okarito (123km) is arguably one
of New Zealands most special
places. The tiny township is
situated on a sand spit dividing
New Zealands largest wetland
and the Tasman Sea. To visit,
turn off the main highway at the
signpost for Okarito.
The area was originally inhabited
by Maori visiting for seasonal
www.glacieradventures.co.nz
Whataroa
FREEPH: 0800 423 463

tel: +64 3 753 4096 e: ice.info@xtra.co.nz
WHITE HERON SANCTUARY TOURS
www.whiteherontours.co.nz
Main Road, Whataroa
FREEPH: 0800 523 456 tel: +64 3 753 4120

fax: +64 3 753 4087 e: enquiries@whiteherontours.co.nz
White heron breeding colony. Herons in residence Oct - Mar. Rainforest tours all
year round. No other operator can take you up to this area. All weather activity.
Wet weather gear provided. Accom available. Motels / studio units / cabins.
ECO RAFTING ADVENTURES
www.ecoraing.co.nz
FREEPH: 0508 669 675 tel: +64 3 755 4254
Whitewater raing. shing, bushcra. Easy-extreme,
e: info@ecoraing.co.nz
1/2 day to week long expeditions, heli raing. 22+ rivers, Haast to Karamea
Hokitika
seafood harvests. Much loved

and cared for by the locals it is
an ecological gem with over 70
species of birds recorded here
and a popular whitebaiting spot
in season.
Okarito Lagoon is home to white
herons and you can either hire a
kayak or take a kayak tour on the
lagoon with Okarito Nature Tours
or do a boat trip with Okarito Boat
Tours.
The forest at Okarito is also
home to New Zealands rarest
kiwi, the Rowi. For a very special
experience you can take an
evening tour with Okarito Kiwi
Tours to see the kiwi going about
its business in the wild.
From the township you can

also walk along the cliff tops to
Three Mile Lagoon, once the site
of extensive sand gold mining.
Check the tide charts as the
beach is only safe at low tide.
(Grade 2, 3 hour walk return).
There are historical records and
photos on Okaritos gold mining
history in the harbour masters
shed on the wharf.
The climb to the Okarito trig will
let you see the size of the lagoon
and the panorama of the Southern
Alps. (Grade 2, 1 hour return).
Okarito has a community run
camp ground, hostel and a small
motel but no grocery store though
you can get a good coffee at
Okarito Nature Tours.
GLACIER COUNTRY
Franz Josef
VISITOR TIP
Even on days of inclement
weather there are many
attractions and activities to
satisfy all visitors
Franz Josef, or Franz as its known by the

locals is one of the most popular tourist
stops on the West Coast. Along with nearby
Fox Glacier it is the gateway to the most
accessible glaciers anywhere in the world.
First stop in Franz Josef should be the combined
DOC office and i-SITE, at the south end of the main
road. There are first-class displays on every aspect
of glaciation and the regions geology, and for a few
dollars you can view a documentary film on the South
West New Zealand World Heritage Area. The centre
also provides maps on walks, activities and weather
reports.
There is a wide range of tourist activities available
including glacier walks, heli-hikes and scenic flights.
For those on a budget the most economical way to see
the glacier is to drive or bike to the car park 5km south
of the town and walk to the terminal face barrier, which
for safetys sake is still some distance from the glacier
- its a flat walk, allow about an hour. While its well
worth the trip to have a look, we do recommend you
spend the money on a guided tour.
As the glacier is currently receding the best way to
walk on the Franz Josef glacier is by doing a Helihike. Franz Josef Glacier Guides offer a variety of
Franz Josef to
Hrs
Kms
Karamea
Westport
Reefton
Punakaiki
Greymouth
Lake Brunner
Hokitika
Hari Hari
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
Haast
5:25
3:55
3:35
3:10
2:30
2:55
1:50
0:50
373
276
258
220
179
208
139
61
0:25
1:55
25
143
Arthurs Pass
Christchurch
Nelson
Picton
Queenstown
3:00
5:20
6:50
7:50
5:40
233
393
470
534
385
GLACIER COUNTRY
guided glacier walks and climbing

experiences combining a short
helicopter flight with time spent
on the ice exploring. They have
tours to suit all ages and abilities
and bookings are essential
especially in summer. You get all
the equipment needed and return
transfers from Franz Josef.
If you dont want to walk on
the ice, but you do want to get
close to the glacier take a scenic
helicopter or plane flight. This
is a great way to either land on
the glacier or to see some of the
more remote areas. The view from
the air is the best way to put into
perspective the grandeur of the
glacier and its huge presence and
its an awesome experience to
step onto the glacier without
having to put in the hard work.
Various operators offer flights to
suit all budgets.
For a different way to visit the
glaciers try the easy Te Ara a
Waiau walkway or cycleway
(8.7km). The trip through lush
rainforest with abundant birdlife
takes 2 hours on foot or 1 hour
by bike (return) and ends at the
carpark where you have another
hours walk to get closer to the
face.
From the carpark you can also

walk to Peters Pool (25 minutes,
wheelchair accessible) or Sentinel
Rock (20 minutes) for different
views of the glacier. There are a
wide variety of walks in the area
check at the i-SITE for details.
Franz Josef is not just glaciers.
Why not try a quad bike with
Across Country Quad Bikes or
experience some of the best
rapids in New Zealand by raft
or kayak. For the extreme
adventurers you can do the
highest tandem sky dive in the
country with Skydive Franz at
18,000 feet you get 75 seconds of
freefall not for the faint hearted.
Another must do is a visit to
the Award winning West Coast
Wildlife Centre. It is the official
home for the incubation and
captive rearing programme for
New Zealands rarest kiwi the
Rowi and Haast tokoeka. The
chicks are reared here and then
released back to the wild.
After a days walking or time on the
ice the place to go is the Glacier
Hot Pools where you can enjoy a
soak in either the private or public
pools. Its a magical setting as the
pools are surrounded by native
bush and the experience is made
extra-special in the rain.
FRANZ46
West Coast Wildlife Centre
GLACIER COUNTRY
GLACIER COUNTRY
ACTIVITIES | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

AIR SAFARIS FRANZ JOSEF
Main Road, Franz Josef
www.airsafaris.co.nz
Main South Road, SH 6, Franz Josef Glacier
FREEPH: 0800 723 274

tel: +64 3 7520 716 fax: +64 3 7520 701
e: franz@airsafaris.co.nz
Main Road (next to Mobil Petrol Station), Franz Josef
The West Coast is home to spectacular

mountain peaks and creeping glaciers.
Its the perfect environment
for ying in, walking on.
Let Glacier Helicopters put you in touch
with our special part of New Zealand.
All scenic helicopter ights
feature a glacier landing.
Call us today for information
on a ight to suit you.
www.franzjosefglacier.com
GLACIER HOT POOLS

FREEPH: 0800 044 044
tel: +64 3 752 0099
e: info@glacierhotpools.co.nz
Your opportunity to visit our

world renowned glacier.
We invite you to experience one of
the most unique activities that New
Zealand has to oer, a guided trip onto
the majestic Franz Josef Glacier.
Franz Josef Glacier Guides is an
internationally recognized guiding
operation that prides itself on providing
the most incredible glacier experience.
Nestled in lush rainforest, lulled by the sound of

gently cascading water, The Glacier Hot Pools
invites you to leave your day to day
worries behind as you submerge
yourself in deliciously warm water,
rejuvenating mind, body and soul. The
Glacier Hot Pools is a haven of natural
tranquility and the perfect way to relax
aer exploring the rugged West Coast
of New Zealands South Island. Three
invitingly warm main pools await, or you
can opt for one of three secluded private
pools; perfect for families or couples.
Main South Rd, SH 6, Franz Josef
www.helicopter.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 807 767

fax: +64 3 752 0769
e: franz@helicopter.co.nz
The most incredible guided glacier
experience includes:
Awesome scenic helicopter ight
2 hour glacier walk
Ice caves, seracs, pinnacles
Pristine alpine environment
Extraordinary ice ow colours
above and up close
Average tness required
Allow 3 hours trip time
www.glacierhotpools.co.nz
Cron Street, Franz Josef
FREEPH: 0800 484 337

tel: +64 3 752 0763
e: walks@franzjosefglacier.com
FRANZ JOSEF HELI-HIKE
www.glacierhelicopters.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 800 732

tel: +64 3 752 0755
fax: +64 3 752 0778
e: franz@glacierhelicopters.co.nz
Experience the 50 minute Grand Traverse of Aoraki /

Mt Cook and the Glaciers from Franz Josef. Featuring
10 major glaciers and two World Heritage National
Parks - over 200kms of New Zealands
most spectacular alpine scenery. New
Zealands highest mountains and largest
glaciers: Aoraki Mount Cook, Tasman
Glacier, Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.
All guaranteed window seats.
Hourly departures.
Grand Traverse: $340 adult, $220 Child
SCENIC FLIGHT EXPERTS
FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER GUIDES
GLACIER HELICOPTERS FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER
THE HELICOPTER LINE FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

Main South Road, SH 6, Franz Josef
FREEPH: 0800 807 767

tel: +64 3 752 0767
fax: +64 3 752 0769
e: franz@helicopter.co.nz
Our personalised scenic ights from

Franz Josef include glacier landings and
close-up views of the glacier expanse.
Flights vary from 20 40 minutes.
Being a chosen company with consent
to land on the glacier makes the
ight a privileged experience.
Call us today for a ight to suit you.
GLACIER COUNTRY
GLACIER COUNTRY
ACTIVITIES | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER (continued)

SKYDIVE FRANZ
www.skydivefranz.co.nz
Franz Josef
FREEPH: 0800 458 677

e: info@skydivefranz.co.nz
18,000 - NZs highest skydive. Skydive surrounded by
NZs highest mountains incl Aoraki/Mt Cook, Franz Josef
& Fox Glaciers, native rainforest, rivers & coastal views.
Choose from 12,000, 15,000 or 18,000
15 - 20 min ight to altitude.
6 - 8 min parachute ride.
Voted NZs Best Skydive 2011/12.
BOOK NOW!
HAHANA DAY SPA
Te Waonui Forest Retreat, 3 Wallace Street, Franz Josef Glacier
www.hahanadayspa.com
tel: +64 037520555

e: hahanaspa@gmail.com
ACROSS COUNTRY QUAD BIKES

Franz Josef Glacier
www.acrosscountryquadbikes.co.nz
A boutique style Spa located at Te Waonui Forest Retreat,oering massage in

various modalities, beauty and spa treatments. Journey to our relaxing environment,
while your taken care of by our experienced skin and body therapists.
GLACIER COUNTRY KAYAKS
tel: +64 3 752 0123

fax: +64 3 752 0121
e: info@acrosscountryquadbikes.co.nz
www.glacierkayaks.com
46 Cron St, Located in the Rainforest Retreat, Franz Josef
FREEPH: 0800 423 262

tel: +64 3 752 0230 e: paddle@glacierkayaks.com
Join us on a unique kayak tour and kiwi sanctuary, just minutes from Franz Josef Glacier.
Paddle across a mirror lake with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and
glaciers, then walk or paddle through a kiwi sanctuary. 3-4 hrs with FREE photos included!
The ONLY quad bike ride in New Zealand with glacial

views, experience the thrill of riding these unique 2 seater
quad bikes through rainforest, riverbed & grassland.
Operate everyday and in all weather.
Waterproof included and no experience needed.
Ride your own bike or share with a friend/child.
SHOPPING | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

TE KOHA GALLERY
Main Road, Franz Josef Glacier
FOX & FRANZ JOSEF HELISERVICES - FRANZ JOSEF

Main Road, Franz Josef
www.scenic-ights.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 800 793

tel: +64 3 752 0793 fax: +64 3 752 0764
e: franzheli@xtra.co.nz
Scenic helicopter ights, snow landings above
the Franz Josef or Fox Glaciers.
100% locally owned for over 25 years, operating a
modern turbine eet of 4 & 6 passenger helicopters.
Departures daily subject to weather
conditions and at pilots discretion.
Also transport for skiers, climbers, hunters, lming and photography
FREEPH: 0508 626747 tel: +64 3 7520 279

e: info@tekohagallery.co.nz
Traditional and contemporary maori carvings, art and jewelry made on
site. Watch our carvers at work or join a workshop to make your own
special gi in jade,wood or ax. 100% NZ. Open 7 days.
FOOD & DRINK | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

FULL O BEANS
22 State Highway 6, Franz Josef Glacier
tel: +64 3 752 0139
Our baristas look forward to making you great cup of coee that will leave
you ready to tackle the rest of your day. Open for breakfast, lunch & dinner
GLACIER COUNTRY
GLACIER COUNTRY
ACCOMMODATION | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER
FRANZ JOSEF OASIS
www.franzjosefoasis.co.nz
Franz Josef Highway 6, Franz Josef Glacier
ALPINE GLACIER MOTEL, FRANZ JOSEF
www.alpineglaciermotel.com
17 Cron St, Franz Josef
FREEPH: 0800 757 111

tel: +64 3 752 0226 fax: +64 3 752 0221
e: info@alpineglaciermotel.com
tel: +64 3 752 0611

e: franzjosefoasis@gmail.com
Franz Josef Oasis has luxurious, new accommodation, just a few

minutes north of Franz Josef Glacier. Peaceful garden setting overlooking
forest, mountains and farms. Delicious buet breakfasts.
FRANZ JOSEF TOP MOTELS
State Highway 6, Franz Josef, Franz Josef Glacier
24 modern self contained units to suit

all budgets, all with DVD players.
Choose from units with kitchenettes,
spa baths,private balconies with
mountain views or family units.
Free secure parking. Wi- broadband.
100 megabytes free.
FREEPH: 0800 467 897

e: info@franzjoseop10.co.nz
Franz Josef TOP Motel is situated in a quiet rural setting with

magnicent glacier and mountain views. We have a wide range
of modern comfortable accommodations to suit all needs.
GLENFERN VILLAS FRANZ JOSEF

State Highway 6, Franz Josef
FRANZ JOSEF TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK -
www.franzjoseop10.co.nz
State Highway 6, Franz Josef, Franz Josef Glacier
www.glenfern.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 453 633 tel: +64 3 752 0054

fax: +64 3 752 0174 e: host@glenfern.co.nz
Stylish restful 1 & 2 bedroom villas
Qualmark 4+. Self-contained
FREEPH: 0800 467 897

e: info@franzjoseop10.co.nz
HOLLY HOMESTEAD B&B
Nestled beneath a breathtaking glacial

panorama, Franz Josef TOP 10 Holiday Park
oers a beautifully landscaped environment,
and a wide range of accommodation
including camp sites, cabins and motels.
We are happy to help you plan your time to get
the best from your visit to this spectacular area.
2900 Franz Josef Highway, Franz Josef Glacier
www.hollyhomestead.co.nz
tel: +64 3 752 0299 fax: +64 3 752 0298

e: stay@hollyhomestead.co.nz
Boutique B&B: Gracious 1920s colonial homestead.
Perfect for ne accommodation & guest comfort.
4 ensuite guest rooms. Children 12+ welcome.
JAG ESCAPE FRANZ ALPINE RETREAT
PUNGA GROVE
www.pungagrove.co.nz
40 Cron St, Franz Josef
FREEPH: 0800 437 269

tel: +64 3 752 0001
fax: +64 3 752 002
e: host@pungagrove.co.nz
Franz Josef, West Coast
www.jagescape.co.nz
tel: +64 3 752 0204

e: franz@jagescape.co.nz
JAG ESCAPE Franz Alpine Retreat has been purpose built for couples,
families or groups to stay. Facilities that allow you to feel at home,
relax and enjoy the breathtaking environment around.
MONTROSE BACKPACKERS
9 Cron Street , Franz Josef
Welcome to Montrose Backpackers friendly warm& clean.

Experience west coast hospitality at our independent Backpackers.
FREE 24 HOUR INTERNET, Sauna & Hot drinks.
58 ON CRON
www.58oncron.co.nz
58 Cron Street, Franz Josef
www.yha.co.nz/hostels/south-island-hostels/yha-franz-josef/
FREEPH: 0800 278 299

tel: +64 3 752 0754 e: book@yha.co.nz
Opposite Glacier Hot Pools

300m to village and activities
34 Cron Street, Franz Josef
YHA FRANZ JOSEF

2-4 Cron St,, Franz Josef
tel: +64 3 752 0627 fax: +64 3 752 0624

e: info@58oncron.co.nz
BELLA VISTA MOTEL FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER
www.montroselodge.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 666 876 fax: 03 752 0192

e: montrosebackpackers@xtra.co.nz
Spacious and stylish studio and one & two

bedroom units and new executive studios.
SKY TV. Kitchen facilities.
Continental breakfast available.
16 Self contained units

Spa studio, studios, 1 and 2 bedroom units
Guest laundry and BBQ area
www.franzjoseop10.co.nz
www.bellavistamotelfranz.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 235 528 tel: +64 3 752 0008

fax: +64 3 752 0009 e: bvfranz@xtra.co.nz
Quality self contained and serviced units. Central accommodation is
just a minutes walk to the glacier hot pools, restaurants and activity
providers. Ethernet internet available, Complimentary Wi-Fi pass daily.
Modern, warm and nestled in rainforest. Private / Family /

Shared / Ensuite rooms, free sauna, friendly sta, travel desk.
WESTWOOD LODGE
State Highway 6, Franz Josef Glacier
www.westwoodlodge.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 200 209 tel: +64 3 752 0112

fax: +64 3 752 0111 e: info@westwoodlodge.co.nz
The premier Bed & Breakfast in the Glacier country oering
luxuriously appointed rooms & superior facilities.
Set in native gardens
GLACIER COUNTRY
Fox Glacier
Fox Glacier (Fox, to the locals) offers a

more intimate village experience than
its neighbour Franz. Fox has a lovely
outlook across surrounding farms and offers
stunning views of Mt Cook from the road
down to Lake Matheson.
VISITOR TIP
Walking access to the base of
the Glacier is available in most
weather conditions - check with
guides before venturing out.
The Fox Glacier is 13 km long making it the longest

glacier in the Westland National Park. It comes closer
to sea level than any other temperate region glacier
in the world. You can drive 8 km south of the village to
the glacier car park and then walk 20 minutes to the
recommended viewing points. Check with DOC as the
walk conditions can change depending on the weather.
You can do guided walks on Fox Glacier without having
to take a helicopter flight. Walking on the ice in
crampons through crevasses and seracs is an amazing
experience and Fox Glacier Guiding offers glacier
walks that cater for all ages starting from a gentle walk
to the terminal face of the glacier through to half day
and full day glacier walks. They will advise to suit your
level of ability. Ice climb, overnight mountaineering
experiences and heli-hike options are also available. It
pays to book ahead.
Fox Glacier to
Hrs
Kms
Karamea
Westport
Reefton
Punakaiki
Greymouth
Lake Brunner
Hokitika
Hari Hari
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
Haast
5:50
4:20
4:00
3:35
2:55
3:20
2:15
1:15
0:25
398
301
283
247
204
233
164
86
25
1:30
118
Arthurs Pass
Christchurch
Nelson
Picton
Queenstown
3:25
5:45
7:15
8:15
5:15
257
418
495
559
360
GLACIER COUNTRY
GLACIER COUNTRY
ACTIVITIES | FOX
FOX GLACIER GUIDING NEW ZEALAND
State Highway 6, Fox Glacier
www.foxguides.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 111 600

tel: +64 3 751 0825 fax: +64 3 751 0857
e: info@foxguides.co.nz
There are also several helicopter

companies that take you on scenic
flights over the glacier with the
added bonus of close up views of
Aoraki/Mt Cook. You can choose
whether to land on the ice
awesome photos guaranteed.
Skydive Fox Glacier has been

voted the 2nd most scenic skydive
in the world (Everest is number
1). With Aoraki/Mt Cook in the
background how can you go
wrong?
Take a breathtaking guided trip on the West

Coasts longest and easily accessed glacier amidst
fascinating ice formations with New Zealands
most experienced glacier guiding company.
Oering trips to suit most tness levels and budgets.
Fox Trot: Half Day Walk
Nimble Fox: All Day Walk
Flying Fox: Helihike
Fox Trail: Terminal Face Walk
Fox It Up: Ice Climbing Adventure
Browne Fox: Chancellor Dome Heli-Treks
GLACIER HELICOPTERS FOX GLACIER

Main South Road, SH6, Fox Glacier
www.glacierhelicopters.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 800 793

tel: +64 3 751 0866 fax: +64 3 752 0764
e: franzheli@xtra.co.nz
Scenic helicopter ights and snow landings above the
Fox and Franz Josef glaciers. We have been operating
for over 20 years with 4 and 6 passenger helicopters.
100% locally owned and operated. Franz Josef, Fox and
Tasman Glaciers. Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
Also available as transport for skiers, climbers,
hunters, lm crew and photography.
The West Coast glaciers are

imposing, powerful.
Our scenic ights oer stunning
views and glacier landings. Flights
vary from 20 40 minutes.
Call us today for information
on a ight to suit you.
THE HELICOPTER LINE FOX GLACIER

Main South Road, SH 6, Fox Glacier
FOX AND FRANZ JOSEF HELISERVICES - FOX GLACIERwww.scenic-ights.co.nz

Main Road, Fox Glacier
FREEPH: 0800 800 732

tel: +64 3 751 0803 fax: +64 3 751 0709
e: fox@glacierhelicopters.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 807 767

tel: +64 3 751 0767 fax: +64 3 751 0722
e: fox@helicopter.co.nz
Our scenic helicopter ights are ideal to

experience the pristine alpine environment
of the West Coast Glaciers.
All ights oer amazing views
and glacier landings.
Flights available vary from 20 40 minutes.
Call us today for a ight to suit you.
GLACIER COUNTRY
The Fox Glacier area offers a

number of beautiful walks. The
8.4km dual purpose Te Weheka
track from the village to the
glacier car park takes 2 hours
20 mins to walk and an hour to
cycle (return). For great views of
the glacier the Chalet Lookout
Track starts from Glacier View Rd
(1.5hrs, 3.6km).
The must do walk is Lake
Matheson just 6km west of the
township. This is the place where
some of the most stunning images
of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman
mirrored in the lake waters have
been taken. A lakeside boardwalk
GLACIER COUNTRY
through native forest encircles the

lake Grade 1, 60 minutes. The
best light is at dawn. There is also
a great cafe and gift shop here.
The road that travels past the
Lake Matheson entrance will take
you to the peak viewing point,
where you can admire a great view
of the Southern Alps. This road
also continues via a well-formed
gravel road to Gillespies Beach,
where a short walk will take you to
the few remains of a gold dredge
that worked this land. The beach
and the driftwood are worth the
stop.
COOKS SADDLE CAFE & SALOON
www.cooksaddle.co.nz
Main Road, Fox Glacier
tel: +64 3 751 0700 fax: +64 3 751 0809

e: cooksaddlefox@xtra.co.nz
Open 7 days, lunch/evening meals, Family friendly, Takeaways, Monteiths and cider on tap!
Happy hour 6pm-7pm.
Large Sunny Deck in Summer & Cozy warm re in Winter.
Lake Matheson, Fox Glacier
FOX GLACIER TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK
www.fghp.co.nz
Kerr Rd, Fox Glacier
FREEPH: 0800 154 366

fax: 03 751 0813
e: info@fghp.co.nz
Located close to all that attracts you
to stunning Glacier Country.
We oer a wide range of accommodation types to
suit all travellers in a fantastic modern holiday park.
Make us your perfect base for exploring the
Westland National Park and Glaciers of the region.
Check out our Foxy Stayplanners
THE WESTHAVEN FOX GLACIER
www.thewesthaven.co.nz
29 Main Road, State Highway 6, Fox Glacier
FREEPH: 0800 369 452

tel: +64 3 751 0084 fax: +64 3 751 0094
e: host@thewesthaven.co.nz
FOOD & DRINK | FOX
MATHESON CAFE & REFLECTIONZ GIFTS & GALLERY
ACCOMMODATION | FOX
www.lakematheson.com
tel: +64 3 7510 878

fax: +64 3 751 0876
e: info@lakematheson.com
Dont miss the chance to Walk, Shop & Dine in this unforgettable
location with the award winning Matheson Caf oering superb
cuisine with unsurpassed views of Mt Cook and Mt Tasman. You
will nd ReectioNZ Gis and Gallery here too, it is the ultimate in
contemporary souvenir shopping quality, unique N.Z. gis, artwork
and clothing. Lake Matheson is one of New Zealands greatest
scenic icons, just six kilometres from Fox Glacier and renowned
for its stunning reections of Mt Cook a photographers paradise.
Everything you need!

Warm, spacious & welcoming studios at a
FANTASTIC price. Super King, King, Queen,
Twin, & Accessible studios available.
Nicely furnished, self contained units that are
well equipped to handle almost any requirements
you may have. Complimentary WiFi Internet
BELLA VISTA MOTEL FOX GLACIER

55 Main Road, Fox Glacier
tel: +64 3 751 0129

e: bvfox@xtra.co.nz
www.stayfoxglacier.com
fax: +64 3 751 0723
Aordable, superior, quality accommodation to suit all budgets and

travellers. Quiet central location within walking distance to local
restaurants, cafes and activity providers. Onsite Spa Pool/Hot Tub & BBQ..
DISTINCTION FOX GLACIER HOTEL
www.distinctionfoxglacier.co.nz
Main Road, SH6, Fox Glacier
FREEPH: 0800 313 414 tel: +64 3 751 0730

fax: +64 3 751 0731 e: reservations@distinctionfoxglacier.co.nz
Centrally located in Fox Glacier 100 metres from shops, restaurants. 21
luxurious rooms with beautiful ensuites, balconies. Guest lounge, internet,
library, laundry, li, undercover parking. Sumptuous breakfasts included
FOX GLACIER TOP MOTELS
www.fghp.co.nz
Kerr Road, o Cook Flat Road, Fox Glacier
FREEPH: 0800 154 366 fax: +64 3 751 0813

e: info@fghp.co.nz
Fox Glacier TOP Motels provides you with spacious comfortable
motels for all requirements. There are stunning views of Mount
Cook from around the park, just 30 second drive from the village.
HIGH PEAKS HOTEL
www.highpeakshotel.co.nz
163 Cook Flat Road, Fox Glacier
FREEPH: 0800 333 156 fax: +64 3 751 0706

e: stay@highpeakshotel.co.nz
Fully licensed bar & restaurant. Stunning views of Mt Cook & Mt Tasman.
19 Super king bed studio rooms .
Perfectly located to explore the Wests Coasts glacier region
REFLECTION LODGE
Cook Flat Road, Fox Glacier
www.reectionlodge.co.nz
fax: 03 751 0707

e: Raelene@reectionlodge.co.nz
Reection Lodge is surrounded by beautiful gardens with
panoramic views of NZs two highest peaks; Mount Cook
& Mount Tasman are reected in our private lake.
GLACIER COUNTRY
GLACIER COUNTRY
Fox Glacier to Haast

From Fox Glacier SH6 heads into the most remote parts of
Westland with Haast 121km or 1hr 30mins drive away.
24km from Fox you will find the
start of the Copland Track. It is a
Grade 4, 17 km, 7 hour tramp that
gradually climbs past waterfalls,
mountains and fantastic views
to reach Welcome Flat. The track
has several river crossings and
narrow wire bridges that cross the
deeper crevices and river gorges.
At Welcome Flat is a 22-bed hut
and natural hot springs enjoy
a soak with a glass of wine
surrounded by the Southern Alps
it is magic. The climb over the
Copland Pass to Aoraki/Mt Cook

takes three days.
At Bruce Bay (46km) the road hits
the coast. Stop and enjoy the view
and the crashing surf of the Tasman
Sea. Keep the togs (swimsuit)
in the car though - we wouldnt
recommend swimming here as there
are dangerous rips and undertows
and the water is very cold.
Further south youll find the
Salmon Farm Cafe (58km) on the
banks of the Paringa River. Its a
great food and coffee stop option,
and you might get to see a giant

salmon swimming around.
Lake Paringa (66km) is a lovely bush
clad lake well known for salmon
fishing. There are motels and
campervan parks at the north end
by the road and a DOC campsite off
SH6 towards the south.
Lake Moeraki (81km) is a gem of
a lake. Nearby the Munro Track is
your best bet to see the worlds
rarest penguin, the Fiordland
Crested Penguin. It is a Grade
2, 2-hour return walk through
rainforest out to the beach. The
penguins are best seen between
July to November either late
afternoon or early morning. Sit
quietly and wait for them to pass by
as they come to or from the sea and
please dont take dogs with you
they are a major threat to penguins.
Knights Point Lookout (92km)

has views of the coast north and
south and is a favourite stop for
travellers. Ships Creek (101km)
has an excellent viewing tower for
seabird watching. From the DOC
picnic spot the Kahikatea Forest
Walk (grade 1, 30 minutes) takes
you via a boardwalk into kahikatea
swamp forest with great bird
watching. The Dune Walk (grade 1,
30 minutes return) goes along the
beach and then inland to a small
dune lake. Beautiful at sunset.
South Westland is real whitebait
country and between September
and November is teeming with
baiters trying their luck. Call in to
the Curly Tree Whitebait Company
on the banks of the Waita River for
a taste of the tiny delicacy.
FOOD & DRINK | PARINGA

THE SALMON FARM CAFE
Haast Highway, Paringa River, South Westland
www.salmonfarm.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 100 0837

e: salmonfarm@xtra.co.nz
Licensed caf / shop.

Fresh and smoked salmon our specialty.
Variety of cuisine, espresso, souvenirs. Seasonal daytime hours.
ACCOMMODATION | FOX GLACIER TO HAAST

MAHITAHI LODGE
SH6, Bruce Bay, South Westland
www.mahitahilodge.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 751 009 fax: +64 3 751 0195

e: stay@mahitahilodge.co.nz
The southern gateway to Glacier Country, adjoining the
conservation estate and a short distance to the beach.
WILDERNESS LODGE LAKE MOERAKI

State Highway 6, Lake Moeraki, Haast
www.wildernesslodge.co.nz
tel: +64 3 750 0881

e: lakemoeraki@wildernesslodge.co.nz
28 room Nature Lodge in World Heritage rainforest, lake and
seacoast. Lake view accommodation, restaurant, guided
nature & penguin & seal discovery.
The
Gates of
Haast
Picton
Nelson
Blenheim
Karamea
WESTPORT
GREAT COAST ROAD
REEFTON GOLD
Reefton
Punakaiki
GREYMOUTH
JADE COUNTRY
Hokitika
Lake
Brunner LAKES
DISTRICT
Christchurch
GLACIER COUNTRY
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
A LOST WORLD THATS SO SPECTACULAR AND REMOTE

UNESCO DESIGNATED IT A WORLD HERITAGE AREA. THE
KIND OF PLACE YETIS GO TO GET AWAY FROM IT ALL!
GATES OF HAAST
Haast
Jacksons
Bay
Wanaka
Queenstown
Haasts wild and dramatic scenery makes you feel like you are on the
edge of the frontier. From Lake Moeraki to Jacksons Bay there is plenty
to explore including the long empty shingle beaches, dunes, lakes and
wetlands, all with the soaring backdrop of the Southern Alps.
Situated alongside Mount Aspiring National Park, in the heart of a world
heritage area, UNESCO has compared Haast to the Grand Canyon and
Great Barrier Reef as a significant natural treasure.
There is an abundance of wild life and tours are available to view fur
seals, Hectors dolphins and Fiordland Crested Penguins. The fishing is
outstanding from Jacksons Bay and you can book charters. If remote
scenic outback rivers are more your thing try jet boating the Haast,
Waiatoto or Arawhata Rivers.
This is real whitebait country and between September and November
its teeming with baiters trying their luck.
HAAST
Haast &
Jackson Bay
VISITOR TIP
This is a place where we really
mean Take your time, Take it in
because when you explore you
will find fabulous places to go
like Jacksons Bay, and things to
do like eating Whitebait!
Haast is famous for its dramatic landscapes.

Situated alongside Mount Aspiring National
Park, in the heart of a world heritage
area, UNESCO has compared it to the
Grand Canyon and Great Barrier Reef as a
significant natural treasure.
Comprised of small settlements, from the south your
first stop is the Haast Junction where you can find
a petrol station, hotel and the DOC Visitor Centre.
A further 3 km from the Junction on SH6 is Haast
Township with shop, motel, backpackers, caf and
pub that in true Coast form has a great collection
of mounted animal heads. Haast Beach, and other
settlements are located along the Jackson Bay road
where you will find another petrol station and the
motorcamp (turn off at the Junction).
Haasts wild and dramatic scenery makes you feel
like you are on the edge of the frontier. There is plenty
to explore including the long empty shingle beaches,
dunes, lakes and wetlands, all with the soaring
backdrop of the Southern Alps.
Haast to
Hrs
Kms
Karamea
Westport
Reefton
Punakaiki
Greymouth
Lake Brunner
Hokitika
Hari Hari
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier
Haast
7:20
5:50
5:30
5:05
4:25
4:50
3:45
2:25
1:55
1:30
516
419
401
365
322
351
282
204
143
118
Arthurs Pass
Christchurch
Nelson
Picton
Queenstown
5:00
7:15
8:45
9:45
3:45
377
536
613
677
242
THE GATES OF HAAST
THE GATES OF HAAST
The road to Jackson Bay passes

the Hapuka Estuary walk. The
grade 1, 30- minute loop is a mustdo when the kowhai is in flower
as the trees are full of bellbirds,
tui and wood pigeons. You can jet
boat the Waiatoto and Arawhata
Rivers with Haast River Safari
or Waiatoto River Safari. Tours
are also available to see Hectors
dolphins, Fiordland Crested

Penguins and fur seals the DOC
visitor centre has details.
Jackson Bay is the only natural
deep-water wharf on the
West Coast and the fishing is
outstanding. Blue cod, groper and
terakihi can be caught not far from
shore and in season the tuna is
plentiful. Charters are available.
The short walk
to Jackson Head
(grade 1, 20
minutes) and
Smoothwater
Bay Track (Grade
3, 4 hours return)
are both worth
doing.
SHOPPING | HAAST
SANTANA HONEY SHOP MERINO POSSUM SHOP
Marks Road, Haast Township
www.santana.co.nz
tel: +64 3 750 0791

e: shop@santana.co.nz
Merino Possum garments and accessories, Possum

skin products, Sheepskins, general souvenirs.
Live bee hive display Manuka and
local honey, skincare products.
Clean rest rooms, picnic tables, and free over night
parking available for self contained vehicles.
CURLY TREE WHITEBAIT COMPANY
www.curlytreewhitebait.com
Waita River 10km north of Haast
tel: +64 3 750 0097

e: tonymoana@curlytreewhitebait.com
As seen on Country Calendar.
Learn about NZs favourite little sh. Taste the West Coast delicacy Whitebait Patties.
Freshly cooked on location while you wait.
ACCOMMODATION | HAAST
ACTIVITIES | HAAST
GREENSTONE HELICOPTERS
Cnr Marks Rd & S.H. 6, Haast
ASURE ASPIRING COURT MOTEL

www.greenstonehelicopters.co.nz
tel: +64 3 750 0728

e: info@greenstonehelicopters.co.nz
HERITAGE PARK LODGE

www.haastriver.co.nz
The Red Barn, SH6, Haast
FREEPH: 0800 865 382 fax: 03 750 0181

e: info@haastriver.co.nz
1921 Haast-Jackson Bay Rd, Haast
www.heritageparklodge.co.nz
15 Marks Road, Haast Township
FREEPH: 0800 52 62 52 tel: +64 3 7500 868

e: heritageparklodge@xtra.co.nz
Located in a quiet native bush setting with mountain views and all day sun. 100 metres to cafe, bar,
restaurant, supermarket, shops & playground. 5 mins drive to beach. Ground oor studio (sleep
1-3), one & two bedroom (sleep 1-6) motel units. Wi. Seasonal Tarri $95 to $150 (2 persons)
Journey through the heart of this World Heritage Area.

Innovative fully enclosed boats allow access for all
ages to the unique Haast River Valley.
WAIATOTO RIVER SAFARI
FREEPH: 0800 500 703 tel: +64 3 750 0703

e: info@haastlodge.com
Ideally located in the Haast Township, we provide quality self
contained motels, backpackers and van sites. We are within walking
distance to shop, playground and restaurant. Motel with WiFi
We operate scenic ights in this untouched World Heritage area to see Mt Aspiring
and its glaciers, and to the longer iconic Milford Sound. We also specialise in
personalised shing charters and provide hunter drop os and pick ups.
HAAST RIVER SAFARI
www.aspiringcourtmotel.com
1 Marks Road, Haast
HAAST BEACH HOLIDAY PARK

www.riversafaris.co.nz/
PO Box 52, Haast
www.haastpark.com
tel: +64 3 750 0860 fax: +64 7 750 0862
e: haastpark@xtra.co.nz
15km from Junction towards Jackson Bay. We oer clean inexpensive

accommodation. Motels, Kitchen & Standard cabins, Powered and tent sites.
FREEPH: 0800 538 723 tel: +64 3 750 0780

e: info@riversafaris.co.nz
Rain Forest, Tasman Sea and Alpine Guided River Safari.
A West Coast Rain Forest and Ocean to Alps experience, our tours are
small and personal with a maximum of 8 to 10 people per trip.
FIORDLAND COAST WALKS

Haast / Milford Sound
FREEPH: 0800 262 789
www.ordlandcoastwalks.co.nz
e: grant@ordlandcoastwalks.co.nz
Haast to Milford Sound, West Coast Fiordland Coast Walks. Guided multi-day walks along New Zealands
wilderness coastline. The walks are remote and timeless you will be le spellbound.
THE GATES OF HAAST
THE GATES OF HAAST
Haast to Wanaka
From Haast Junction Wanaka is 142km or 2 hours driving
but the stunning scenery means you will want to take a bit
more time to explore.
Even when it rains this is a
spectacular drive up magnificent
river valleys and through three
different types of countryside
temperate rain forest,
beech forest and high country
grasslands. Make sure you fuel
up as the nearest petrol station is
80kms away in Makarora.
The road follows the Haast River
and winds past bluffs and river
flats. The many waterfalls really
put on a show if its raining. It
is worth doing the walk to the
Roaring Billy Falls - take the
Grade 1, 30 minute return walk
through bush ferns for views of
the falls across the river.
Clarke Bluff scenic stop allows you
to witness the joining of the Haast
and the Landsborough Rivers with
views up the Landsborough Valley.
The Landsborough 3 day rafting
expedition travels down this valley.
At Pleasant Flat there is a very
good DOC picnic and camping area
by the banks of the Haast River
but watch out for the sandflies they are ferocious. Thunder Falls
is a 2 minute Grade 1 walk to a
viewing area of the falls across
the river.
The road now winds up over the
Gates of Haast, which is well worth
a photo stop. The sheer gorge with
its huge boulders was the most
challenging sector of the Haast
highway. Further on the Fantail
Falls are a Grade 1, 2 minute walk
down on to the riverbed and the
falls across the river.
Haast Pass (66km) is 563m

above sea-level and is the lowest
crossing point over the Southern
Alps. It follows an ancient trail
used by Maori travelling to the
West Coast in search of pounamu
or greenstone. German explorer
Julius von Haast named the pass
after himself in the 19th century.
The Haast Summit Lookout Track
starts at the summit and leads to
a view point above the bushline
that provides stunning views. Its
a 2km, 1-hour return walk. The
Haast Summit to Davis Flat Pack
Track takes 1.5 - 2 hours.
The road continues through
several river flats and follows the
Makaroa River. Makaroa township
offers food and accommodation.
The Wilkin, Siberia, Gillespie Pass,
Young River 3 day loop starts and
finishes here. Check with the local
DOC office for track conditions.
The mountain beech forest turns
into high country open grasslands
dotted with tussock. These
mountainsides are used to farm
merino sheep, deer
and cattle. The road follows
the shores of the Lake Wanaka
crossing at the Neck to Lake
Hawea. View Point provides great
views up Hawea Lake to the very
craggy ranges of the Southern
Alps at the lakes end. Hawea
Township offers a fuel stop on
the main road and in the village
there is a pub, general store and
accommodation. Next stop is
Wanaka.
Theres an awful lot to take in on The

Coast. Some might say were greedy
for having sub-tropical rainforest,
deserted beaches and two glaciers
all in one six hundred kilometre
stretch of coastline.
But then wed remind you that we
stoically put up with seals, kiwis and
a plethora of other native wildlife every
time we so much as venture out for a
picnic. Its certainly not all a walk in
the park. In fact, thats probably what
youll love most about The Coast. Its
off the beaten track. Its untamed, wild
and pure. Its the New Zealand youre
looking for.
Contact
info@westcoastnz.com
+64 3 768 6633 for travel
and trade information
www.westcoastnz.com

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Official

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS1

GREAT COAST ROAD

Front cover image

Fox Glacier Guiding New Zealand

200km 177km 258km

317km 122km 148km 535km

156km 133km 268km

369km 710km 338km

430km 235km 512km 196km 392km 373km 427km

995km 956km 820 km 539km 860km 650km 678km 773km

1146km 317km 245km 330km 609km 290km 490km 469km 424km

327km 264km 844km 151km 376km

242km 222km 285km

120km 272km 209km 878km 174km 255km 116km 394km

273km 255km 254km

288km 226km 951km

340km 141km 437km 101km 300km 277km 333km

2 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS3

West Coast Events

4 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS5

tel: +64 3 782 6652 fax: +64 3 782 6654 e:info@karameainfo.co.nz

WESTPORT i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE

tel: +64 3 789 6658 fax: +64 3 789 6668 e:westport.info@xtra.co.nz

REEFTON i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE

tel: +64 3 732 8391 fax: +64 3 732 8616 e:reefton@i-site.org

PAPAROA NATIONAL PARK DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION

West Coast Heritage Sites

Biking & Walking

BIKING ON THE WEST COAST

The Northern West Coast & Buller

The Great Coast Road

Main Road, SH6, Punakaiki

tel: +64 3 731 1895 fax: +64 3 731 1896 e:paparoavc@doc.govt.nz

GREYMOUTH i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE

tel: +64 3 768 5101 fax: +64 3 768 0317 e:vingm@minidata.co.nz

The Historic Railway Station, 164 Mackay street, Greymouth

WEST COAST TRAVEL CENTRE AND i-SITE

tel: +64 3 768 7080 fax: +64 3 768 7090 e:info@westcoasttravel.co.nz

ARTHURS PASS NATIONAL PARK DEPARTMENT OF

tel: +64 3 318 9211 fax: +64 3 318 9093 e:arthurspassvc@doc.govt.nz

HOKITIKA i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE

tel: +64 3 755 6166 fax: +64 3 755 5011 e:enquiries@hokitikainfo.co.nz

FRANZ JOSEF DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION i-SITE

tel: +64 3 752 0796 fax: +64 3 752 0797 e:westlandnpvc@doc.govt.nz

HAAST ARAWUA DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION VISITOR

tel: +64 3 750 0809 fax: +64 3 750 0832 e:haastvc@doc.govt.nz

6 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

Greymouth and the Grey District

The Lakes District

WHATAROA AND OKARITO

The Gates of Haast

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS7

It takes a while but the

FROM THE HIGHEST OF MOUNTAINS AND STUNNING

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS9

FREEPH: 0800 872 467

Service available in, Greymouth

West Coast Heritage Sites

Biking & Walking

BIKING ON THE WEST COAST

The Northern West Coast & Buller

The Great Coast Road

Greymouth and the Grey District

The Lakes District

WHATAROA AND OKARITO

The Gates of Haast