Sandwiched between the formidable peaks of the Southern Alps and the restless Tasman Sea, the West Coast of New Zealand is a very different world. Easily accessible by Arthur’s Pass, yet imbued with a thrilling sense of rugged isolation, this region of wild seas and rainforests is the perfect place to rediscover the simple things in life: hearty country fare in front of a roaring fire, good conversation over a beer in a country pub, fascinating human history and a natural landscape that’s simply beyond words. The West Coast is a place unlike any other in New Zealand.

REST & RELAX

Find yourself a cosy West Coast pub nestled at the foot of a wild, bush-clad mountain, feast on tasty Whitebait Fritters, then yarn with the locals over a beer.

LUXURY EXPERIENCE

Start the day with breakfast in front of the fire at Lake Brunner Lodge, then try your luck at fishing for trout in Lake Brunner.

NATURAL EXPERIENCE

Catch your breath at the astonishing sight of a huge blue-white glacier nestled in a valley lined with lush green rainforest – the West Coast is home to the most accessible temperate zone glaciers in the world.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCE

Pull on your raincoat and hike up to Denniston – this once-thriving coal mining town is now abandoned to the rainforest. You can learn more about the West Coast’s fascinating human history at Shantytown.

BUDGET TRAVEL

Dodge the sea spray at Punakaiki! The Pancake Rocks are fascinating in any weather, but catch them at high tide in stormy weather and you’re in for a spectacular show as geysers of sea water shoot up between the rocks!

ADRENALINE-RUSH

Arm yourself with an ice axe and a sense of adventure and follow in the footsteps of your expert guide as you traverse the icy face of Franz Josef or Fox Glacier.

Plan your trip with a detailed map of this region and peruse our suggested travel itinerary. Read More Sights, activities and top picks to make planning easier. Read More