West Coast

New Zealand South Island Travel Insiders

Welcome to
the West Coast Region of New Zealand

We know you will love it as much as we do!

A haven for epic coastal and mountain panoramas, rugged landscapes, pristine rainforests, and abundant wildlife, the West Coast, New Zealand, is the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

From quirky towns to one-of-a-kind trails, click below to explore the West Coast’s hidden gems, must-dos and the best places to visit in the West Coast region of the South Island.

Oli at Lake Matheson New Zealand

NEW ZEALAND SOUTH ISLAND TRAVEL INSIDERS

Discover the top West Coast towns & places to visit.

Greymouth

Greymouth, the gateway to the West Coast, offers thrilling activities & access to the rugged coastline. Explore the untamed outdoors, enjoy scenic rail journeys, and delve into the town’s rich gold mining history. On top of that, Greymouth is the perfect starting point for one of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives, the Great Coast Road to Westport.

Westport

Westport is your gateway to a world of adventure, from wildlife encounters to scenic coastal trails, historic sites, and beautiful beaches. From Westport, take the Great Coast Road to Greymouth. Along the way, you’ll see Cape Foulwind seals, roaring blowholes, and soak in dramatic coastal vistas at every turn.

Punakaiki

Visit one of our favourite places in New Zealand. Punakaiki is famous for its Pancake Rocks & Blowhole, where nature sculpts magnificent formations. Be entranced by blowholes, limestone landscapes, spectacular coastal beauty and captivating national park trails. Explore Punakaiki’s natural wonders!

Franz Josef

Franz Josef is home to the remarkable Franz Josef Glacier. Hike to the glacier’s terminal face or take a scenic flight, relax in hot pools, and savour breathtaking views. Click to discover the majesty of Franz Josef, a West Coast New Zealand highlight.

Fox Glacier

Fox Glacier delivers some of the South Island’s most striking ice scenery. Walk the valley floor to the glacier’s terminal face, take a scenic flight for sweeping views, or enjoy the calm lakeside track at Lake Matheson. Explore Fox Glacier, a classic West Coast highlight.

West Coast Small Towns & Villages

Explore West Coast’s small towns & villages. From hidden gems like Karamea with its epic walks to historical towns like Ross, these South Island destinations offer a broad range of experiences for those wanting to get off the beaten track.

The Great Coast Road New Zealand Greymouth to Westport Drive

Not sure where to start your West Coast trip?

In the past two decades, we’ve travelled and explored all over the West Coast. Check out some of our highlights & the best attractions on the West Coast New Zealand.

Read the latest West Coast posts from New Zealand South Island Travel Insider!

Every day is an exciting day when you’re in the South Island of New Zealand

Don’t just dream about your perfect adventure in New Zealand’s South Island! Start planning with our helpful guides on getting to the South Island, transport options and self-drive New Zealand South Island tours. Plus, discover what New Zealand is known for and start creating your NZ Must-Do bucket list today!