West Coast

New Zealand South Island Travel Insider Guide

Welcome to
the West Coast 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.

Start your adventure now, where untamed beauty and unique experiences beckon. Click below to explore the West Coast’s remarkable charm and uncover the hidden gems, the quirky towns, the 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 INSIDER GUIDE

Discover the top West Coast towns & places to visit.
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 from New Zealand South Island Travel Insider Guide!

View across the Tasman Sea from Punakaiki's Pancake Rocks.
West Coast | Things to do

Why Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Track Is Worth the Walk

We’ve explored the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes track in all kinds of weather, and it never gets old. This is one of New Zealand’s best short walks, offering more than just pretty scenery. There’s native bush, crashing waves, and rock formations that look like a stack of pancakes. Check out our review of what…

Chilli garlic, prawns, chips and a glass of Monteith's beer
West Coast | Things to do

The Best Greymouth Restaurants and Cafes

Are you looking for recommendations for the best places to eat in Greymouth? We’re here to help! We frequently visit the largest town on the West Coast and have personally dined at many restaurants and cafes. Therefore, we have written this post about our dining experiences to help you decide where to eat. Read on…

Woman standing on a rock overlooking the rugged ocean at Cape Foulwind Walkway
Things to do | West Coast

Cape Foulwind Walkway: Seal Spotting, Lighthouse & Epic Ocean Views

Cape Foulwind Walkway is a must-see attraction in the West Coast region of the South Island. This short walk offers views of a historic lighthouse, expansive ocean panoramas, farmland, mountains, a colony of fur seals, striking coastal formations and cliff views. Here is the information you need to visit this extraordinary coastal walkway. Make sure…

Gravel track through ancient rainforest in Fox Glacier, New Zealand.
Things to do | West Coast

The Best West Coast Walks You Don’t Want To Miss – New Zealand South Island

Prepare to be filled with awe as you explore the outstanding natural wonders of the West Coast. You’ll find the most incredible hikes in New Zealand in the South Island’s West Coast region, where you can experience these breathtaking sights up close on scenic walks. You can find yourself walking along ocean clifftop trails one…

Views of cliffs and ocean from the Truman Track walk
West Coast | Things to do

The Best Punakaiki Walks – Short NZ South Island Walks

Punakaiki is an ideal destination for those who want to marvel at natural wonders. At the western edge of the Paparoa National Park, the area offers some of the finest hikes in New Zealand’s South Island. This list of the best Punakaiki walks includes short and easy hikes, making them doable for most visitors. Punakaiki…

View of riverbed and Franz Josef Glacier surrounded by snow covered moutains.
West Coast | Things to do

Your Complete Guide to the Franz Josef Glacier Walk

The town of Franz Josef, famous for its glacier, offers many excellent and rewarding walks. One of the most popular tracks is the Franz Josef Glacier Walk. This short and easy walk is the highlight of a visit to the town and is the main reason people visit. Here is all the information you need…

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!