Roadtrip Ready: West Coast

Best described as an ‘untamed natural wilderness’, the West Coast offers a myriad of geological treasures. From rainforests and rivers, to glaciers and rock formations.

Home to just over 30,000 people, the region is an enormous 600 kilometres long, and no more than 50 kms wide. Voted one of the top 10 coastal drives in the world by Lonely Planet - we reckon there’s a lot more to the West Coast than meets the eye.

Franz Josef Glacier

First explored in 1865, Franz Josef Glacier was named after the Austrian Emperor. A 90 minute walk from the village will take you within several hundred metres of its terminal face. For those who are looking for a hands-on experience, you can take a guided ice walk or heli-hike. 

There are also numerous other natural attractions near the village including lakes, waterfalls and rainforests. Feeling a bit cold? Head to the Glacier Hot Pools!

Fox Glacier

This time named after a leader of our own country, Fox Glacier pays tribute to Sir William Fox. Head along Cook Flat Road towards Lake Matheson (one of the most photographed lakes in the country) for some breathtaking views.

You can also arrange a hands-on ice-hiking trek or charter a scenic flight.

If you are feeling hungry, check out the selection cafes in restaurants in the town centre and while you’re there, take a short stroll to the local glowworm caves.

Haast

Awarded a ‘World Heritage’ status by UNESCO, the Haast region is a spectacular mix of beaches, lakes, dunes and wetlands. Incredibly popular for hunting and tramping, the Department of Conservation has no shortage of walks and trails for you to explore. 

Lose yourself in the adrenaline filled jet boat tours, river safaris, helicopter flights and visits to penguin and fur seal colonies. 

Punakaiki

Not the first place you’d expect pancakes, Punakaiki is a geological wonder of rock formations that resemble hotcakes. Best visited at high tide, the maintained trail takes you through native forest and coastal flax and scrub. Offering views of the rugged coastline, the surrounding mountain range and the final attraction, giant stacks of rock hotcakes and powerful blowholes.

Oparara Basin

Considered one of the finest features of the Kahurangi National Park, explore unique limestone formations and native forest in Oparara Basin. For over 35 million years, the river has sculpted a complex mixture of caves, channels and arches. A range of walking tracks from 10 minute strolls to one hour trails feature various natural phenomena and lead to a stunning mountain pool. If you’re in the area, it’s not one to miss.

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Looking for more inspiration? Check out our rundown on the Waikato and Canterbury regions.

Images courtesy of Tourism New Zealand.