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WEST COAST

Official
Visitor
Guide

2014/15

www.westcoastnz.com

Picton
Nelson
Blenheim
Karamea

WESTPORT

REEFTON GOLD
Reefton

GREAT COAST ROAD


Punakaiki

Lake
Brunner LAKES
DISTRICT

GREYMOUTH
JADE COUNTRY
Hokitika

Front cover image


by Stephen Roberts

Christchurch

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

GLACIER COUNTRY
Franz Josef
Fox Glacier

395km
5:40

23km 418km
20 min 6:00

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

13

Fox Glacier Guiding New Zealand

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS3

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.
Take a tour with the White Heron Sanctuary Tours to
veiw NZs only white heron breeding colony.
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, Greymouth & Hokitika Horse Races

D
 riftwood & Sand Beach Sculpture Festival, Hokitika
FEB  Speights Coast to Coast

Buller Marathon Westport
MAR  Wildfoods Festival, Hokitika

Horse Racing, Westport

Art in the Park, Greymouth
APR  Around Brunner Cycle Ride

Westport Performing Arts Festival May

Buller Country Music Awards August

First Light Festival, Reefton
OCT Greymouth Motorcycle Street Race
NOV Coast Road Cycle Race
DEC Horse Racing, Westport
See our website for more details - westcoastnz.com

4 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

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 Haast 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, bird
watching, 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
OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS5

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


123 Palmerston Street, Westport

tel: +64 3 789 6658 fax: +64 3 789 6668


e: westport.info@xtra.co.nz www.buller.co.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
Main Road, SH6, Punakaiki

tel: +64 3 731 1895 fax: +64 3 731 1896


e: paparoavc@doc.govt.nz

GREYMOUTH i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE

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 AWARUA 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

6 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

Contents
MUST-DOS 
4
WEST COAST EVENTS
4
WELCOME5
VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES
6

Getting here

West Coast Heritage Sites

10

West Coast Cycle Trails

14

Biking & Walking

16
17
18

BIKING ON THE WEST COAST


WEST COAST WALKS

The Northern West Coast & Buller

21
KARAMEA23
WESTPORT TO KARAMEA
26
WESTPORT 
29
CARTERS BEACH
32
WESTPORT TO REEFTON
33

Reefton Gold

35
37

REEFTON 

The Great Coast Road


WESTPORT TO PUNAKAIKI
PUNAKAIKI 
PUNAKAIKI TO GREYMOUTH 

41
42
45
47

The Gold Coast - Greymouth & the Grey


District

49
THE GREY VALLEY 
50
GREYMOUTH53
GREYMOUTH TO KUMARA
59

The Lakes District

61
LAKE BRUNNER & MOANA 
63
GETTING TO CHRISTCHURCH VIA LAKE BRUNNER, OTIRA AND
ARTHURS PASS 
66

Jade Country

69
CHRISTCHURCH TO
HOKITIKA VIA KUMARA
70
HOKITIKA73
POUNAMU/NEW ZEALAND JADE
76
HOKITIKA TO GLACIER COUNTRY VIA ROSS AND HARI HARI
78

Glacier Country
WHATAROA AND OKARITO
FRANZ JOSEF
FOX GLACIER & LAKE MATHESON 
LAKE MATHESON
FOX GLACIER TO HAAST

The Gates of Haast


HAAST & JACKSON BAY 
HAAST TO WANAKA 

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

81
82
85
95
99
100
103
105
109

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS7

KIWIRAIL SCENIC JOURNEYS

www.kiwirailscenic.co.nz

FREEPH: 0800 872 467


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; 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 an open air viewing carriage.

ATOMIC TRAVEL

Service available in, Greymouth

www.atomictravel.co.nz

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.

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.

WEST COAST SHUTTLE


52 Marsden Road, Greymouth

www.westcoastshuttle.co.nz

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.
Complimentary Tea or coee on most services. Report 15 mins prior. Star Graded Coach available for charter.

8 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

Getting
here
By Air
Regular daily services between Christchurch - Hokitika 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
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.

By Train
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
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.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS9

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.

10 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

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.)

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.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS11

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.

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 - Cycle Trails, Walks and
timber truss rail bridge.

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.

HARI HARI

[29]
TRANS TASMAN FLIGHT - The first solo flight
from Australia, by Guy Menzies in 1931, is
commemorated where he landed.

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.

KOTUKU

[23]
SCHOOL AND MINI BUNGALOW - Reminders
of a former sawmilling settlement.

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.
34

33

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

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10

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19 20
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26

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88

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OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS13

West
Coast
Cycle
Trails
The West Coast is home to two spectacular
cycle trails that are part of Nga Haerenga
the New Zealand Cycle Trail.

14 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

THE WEST COAST WILDERNESS TRAIL provides offers easy


Grade 2 riding for 136km from the snow capped mountains
of the Southern Alps to the Tasman Sea. The four day journey
traverses a rich and diverse landscape of dense rainforest,
glacial rivers, lakes, wetlands, beaches and lagoons.
The Wilderness Trail links a series
of tracks carved by pioneering gold
rush miners, water races, logging
tramways and railway lines.
It is easy to access and is suitable
for trips from 1 hour to 4 days.
Over 117.3km of the West Coast
Wilderness Cycle Trail is off-road
on an excellent gravel trail, with a
gentle gradient and only a couple
of short steeper sections.
www.westcoastwildernesstrail.co.nz

Day One:
Greymouth Kumara
35.5 km, Grade 2, 99m ascent.
Day Two:
Kumara Milltown
36 km, Grade 2, 310m ascent.
Day Three:
Milltown Hokitika
36 km, Grade 2, 137m ascent.
Day Four:
Hokitika Ross
33 km, Grade 2, 106m ascent.

WEST COAST WILDERNESS TRAIL


Greymouth i-Site
tel: +64 3 768 7081
Hokitika i-Site
tel: +64 3 755 6166

www.westcoastwildernesstrail.co.nz

e: info@westcoasttravel.co.nz
e: enquiries@hokitikainfo.co.nz

The new cycle trail has been designed to suit both


rst time cyclists and those with more experience.
Allow 4 days for the full experience. The trail starts
in Greymouth then along the Coast through historic
Kumara then past lakes through rainforests to
Hokitika and then to Ross. (To be completed soon).

THE OLD GHOST ROAD is adventure riding at is best!


The 80km-long Grade 4 trail traverses majestic native
forest, open tussock tops, river flats and forgotten valleys,
providing days of adventure and spectacular huts for
mountain bikers and trampers.
A long-forgotten gold miners road
has been revived as a world class
mountain biking and tramping
trail - connecting the old dray
road in the Lyell (Upper Buller
Gorge) to the mighty Mokihinui
River in the north.
Four ghost towns populate
the route so there is plenty of
history on the way. With both
ends open to mountain bikers
and completion of the throughtrail scheduled for early 2015,
The Old Ghost Road provides a
range of day trips and overnight
adventures for walkers and
cyclists.
www.oldghostroad.org.nz
OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS15

Biking &
Walking
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.
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.

16 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

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 be completed in 2015.

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.

TE ARA A WAIAU
CYCLEWAY [34]
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.

BIG RIVER

PARINGA-HAAST CATTLE
TRACK [36]

MOONLIGHT TRACK

43KM NORTHEAST OF HAAST - 1-2 days |


Grade 5.
Follows an old cattle track.

[14]
REEFTON - 50km return, 4-8 hours | Grade 3.
Historic mining road through native bush.
[19]
10KM NORTHEAST OF BLACKBALL - 32km,
4-6 hours | Grade 5-. Ride along a historic
miners path.

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.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS17

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.

KARAMEA

[4]
SCOTTS BEACH WALK - 45 minutes | easy.
Beautiful forest walk along coastline

OPARARA VALLEY [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.

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

[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.

LAKE BRUNNER [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.
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.

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.
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.
37

18 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

39

38

LAKE KANIERE

[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.

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.

HAAST

[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.
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.

7
9

33

34
35

36

40

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS19

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

20 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

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.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS21

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.

22 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

THE NORTHERN WEST COAST & BULLER

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

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

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS23

THE NORTHERN WEST COAST & BULLER

to 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 pickups 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
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 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

24 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

THE NORTHERN WEST COAST & BULLER

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.

ACTIVITIES | KARAMEA
OPARARA EXPERIENCE

www.oparara.co.nz

Karamea Information Centre, Market Cross, Karamea

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.

ACCOMMODATION | KARAMEA
LAST RESORT

www.lastresort.co.nz

71 Waverley Street, Karamea

FREEPH: 0800 505 042


tel: +64 3 782 6617
fax: +64 3 782 6820
e: info@lastresortkaramea.co.nz
www.lastresortkaramea.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 HOLIDAY PARK


Maori Point Rd, Karamea

tel: +64 3 782 6758

www.karamea.com

e: karameah@slingshot.co.nz

Go to sleep to the sound of the sea and awaken to birdsong in


our lovely native bush setting next to the sandy estuary. We have
motels, cabins, power and tent sites to suit every need.

KARAMEA RIVER MOTELS


31 Bridge Street, Karamea

tel: +64 3 782 6955


fax: +64 3 782 6944

www.karameamotels.co.nz

FREEPH: 0800 KARAMEA (0800 527 263)


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.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS25

THE NORTHERN WEST COAST & BULLER

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

ACCOMMODATION | WESTPORT KARAMEA


CHARMING CREEK B & B/ THE BEACH NEST

24 Main Rd, Ngakawau Beach -20 mins Nth of Westport, Westport

FREEPH: 0800 131STAY (131782)


e: info@bullerbeachstay.co.nz

www.bullerbeachstay.co.nz

tel: +64 3 782 8007

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.

MINERS ON SEA

117 Torea St, Granity, 22km North of Westport

FREEPH: 0508 MINERS


e: phil@perrott.co.nz

www.minersonsea.co.nz

tel: +64 3 782 8664

Luxury accommodation Budget accommodation


Bar/Bottle Store/Meals/Cycle Storage

26 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

THE NORTHERN WEST COAST & BULLER

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).

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS27

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.

Abundant wildlife and Fur Seals at


Tauranga Bay
28 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

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 mining and dairy
industries 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 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.
Westport 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

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS29

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

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 COAL MINING WITH US!

OUTWEST TOURS LTD


xx, Carters Beach, Westport

FREEPH: 0800 688 937


e: info@outwest.co.nz

www.outwest.co.nz
tel: +64 3 789 6883

Join us on the Stockton Mine Tour Discover how modern day mining works
including the rehabilitation of the land. This trip is weather dependant.

ACCOMMODATION | WESTPORT
BAZIL'S HOSTEL & SURF SCHOOL

www.bazils.com

54-56 Russell Street, Westport

tel: +64 3 789 6410

e: info@bazils.com

Bazil's Hostel & Surf School on the stunning West Coast,


your gateway to Surng, paddle boarding, hiking, kayaking,
mountain biking & caving. FREE WIFI, FREE FUN.

BELLA VISTA MOTEL WESTPORT


314 Palmerston Street, Westport

www.bellavistamotelwestport.co.nz

FREEPH: 0800 235 528


tel: +64 3 789 7800 fax: +64 3 789 8110
e: bvwestport@xtra.co.nz
Stay with us in Westport. Close to town centre & restaurants.
Quality units from compact studios to 1 bedroom.

30 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

THE NORTHERN WEST COAST & BULLER

ACCOMMODATION | WESTPORT
BULLER BRIDGE MOTEL

www.bullerbridgemotel.co.nz

The Esplanade, Westport

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, FREE Wi. Come stay and relax in our quiet garden setting.

BULLER COURT ON PALMERSTON

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

ASURE CHELSEA GATEWAY MOTOR LODGE

www.chelseagateway.co.nz

330 Palmerston Street, Westport

FREEPH: 0800 66 00 33 tel: +64 3 789 6835


e: stay@chelseagateway.co.nz
20 spacious, comfortable, self-catering units from studios to 1, 2 & 3
bedroom apartments, some with spa baths. Conveniently located near town
centre. Free WIFI, 50+ Sky TV, free car parking & bicycle storage.

WESTPORT SPA MOTEL

www.westportspamotel.co.nz

239 Palmerston Street, Westport

FREEPH: 0800 375 273 tel: +64 3 789 5273


fax: +64 3 789 5293 e: stay@westportspamotel.co.nz
10 modern, spacious studio & 1 bedroom apartments. Large
double corner spa baths. King size beds. Free wireless broadband.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS31

THE NORTHERN WEST COAST & BULLER

Carters Beach
West side of the Buller River is Carters Beach. A stunning
sandy beach, great for swimming, going for a long quiet
walk, or go fishing.
Also you can explore the 18 hole
golf course, local caf\bar, or
visit the enchanting childrens
playground. A relaxing place to
watch the gorgeous West Coast
sunsets. The south end of the

beach is Cape Foulwind. Near there


is the start of the Cape Foulwind
walkway. Taking you along the
top of the scenic coastline to the
viewing platform to a colony of
New Zealand Fur Seals.

FOOD AND DRINK | CARTERS BEACH


DONALDO'S CAF

23 Marine Parade, Carters Beach, Westport

tel: +64 3 789 7409

e: tomstuart@slingshot.co.nz

At Carters Beach,5 minute drive from Westport. Stunning sea side views
relax and enjoy, NZ style cuisine, open for Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner, or
simply enjoy wine or coee and something to eat from our bakery in our
relaxing courtyard, a lovely setting for your dining experience.

ACCOMMODATION | CARTERS BEACH


CARTERS BY THE SEA

27 Marine Parade, Carters Beach, Westport

tel: +64 3 789 8169

e: csea1@mail.com

Unique beach front location 5 mins from Westport. 10 brand new, spacious,
contemporary studios are the ultimate in luxurious accommodation
with beach, restaurant, bar, golf course, all within walking distance.

SEAL COLONY TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK


57 Marine Parade, Carters Beach, Westport

www.top10westport.co.nz

FREEPH: 0508 937 876 tel: +64 3 789 8002


e: holiday@top10westport.co.nz
Minutes from Westport, and its only beachfront holiday park. A wide range
of accommodation available. From our Top Motels to Standards cabins,
powered & tents sites. Enjoy a quiet park close to a variety of activities.

32 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

THE NORTHERN WEST COAST & BULLER

Westport to Reefton
The road from Westport to 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.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS33

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

34 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

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.
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.
OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS35

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.

36 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

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.

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

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS37

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.
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 GOLDFIELDS JOURNEY
67-69 Broadway, Reefton

www.quartzopolis.co.nz

tel: +64 3 7328391


e: rvcinfo@xtra.co.nz
Mountain bike the Victoria Forest Park
thru the old goldeld trails.
Reefton 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 Reefton itself.
Grades 2 - 5.
Contact Reefton Visitor Centre.

FOOD AND DRINK | REEFTON


BROADWAY TEAROOMS
31 Broadway, Reefton

tel: +64 3 732 8497

www.thefuturedoughco.co.nz

e: thebroadway@xtra.co.nz

Serving caf style food with a smile. Open 5am to 5pm we have a breakfast
& lunch menu, a real bakery, organic Hummingbird coee and friendly sta
who know and love our area. Great food great place great people.

38 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

REEFTON

ACCOMMODATION | REEFTON
BELLBIRD MOTELS

www.nzmotels.co.nz

93 Broadway, Reefton

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

www.lanterncourtmotel.co.nz

63 Broadway, Reefton

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 Reefton.
Our 1, 2 and 3 bedroom units provide
accommodation to suit all budgets

THE OLD NURSES HOME GUESTHOUSE

www.reeftonaccommodation.co.nz

104 Shiel St, Reefton

tel: +64 3 732 8881 fax: +64 3 732 8981


e: info@reeftonaccommodation.co.nz
Great value accommodation in Reefton, The Old Nurses Home Guesthouse
located amid peaceful garden/grounds. Internet, Freeview & Sky TV.
Centrally heated rooms. Fully made-up beds & towels provided.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS39

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

40 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

The
Great
Coast Road
ONE OF THE TOP 10 COASTAL DRIVES IN THE WORLD
ACCORDING TO LONELY PLANET, WE JUST USE IT TO GET
AROUND!
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.
OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS41

THE GREAT COAST ROAD

Westport to 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.
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 & glow worm 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.

42 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

THE GREAT COAST ROAD

ACTIVITIES | WESTPORT PUNAKAIKI


UNDERWORLD ADVENTURES

www.caverafting.com

The Underworld Adventure Centre & Caf, SH6, Charleston

FREEPH: 0800 116 686 tel: +64 3 788 8168


fax: +64 3 789 5508 e: contact@caverafting.com
Join us on a magical journey of discovery in the awe-inspiring Nile River
GlowWorm Caves. Experience our award winning Underworld Rafting or 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

www.birdsferrylodge.co.nz

Birds Ferry Road, 8km North of Charleston

FREEPH: 0800 337 223 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

CHARLESTON LODGE
SH6, Charleston, Westport

tel: +64 3 789 7599

www.charlestonmotel.co.nz

e: info@charlestonmotel.co.nz

Download the Kaywa QR Code Reader (App Store &Android Market) and scan your code!

Motel style accommodation at the start of the great Coast


Road, between Pancake Rocks & Westport. Easy walk to
beach, cafe, caving, & fantastic drive along the coast.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS43

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.

44 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

THE GREAT COAST ROAD

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.
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

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS45

THE GREAT COAST ROAD

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. Eftpos / credit cards accepted.
Quiet Units, all double glazed.

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
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

PUNAKAIKI BEACH CAMP


Owen Street, PO BOX 12, Punakaiki

tel: +64 3 731 1894

www.punakaikibeachcamp.co.nz

e: beachcamp@xtra.co.nz

Between the beach, river and National Park the Punakaiki Beach Camp is truly a paradise
holiday destination. Whether staying in a cabin or powered/ non-powered site you can be sure
to hear the ocean crashing and the birds singing. An ideal spot for a couple of nights stay.

PUNAKAIKI BEACH HOSTEL


4 Webb Street, RD1, Punakaiki

www.punakaikibeachhostel.co.nz

tel: +64 3 731 1852 fax: +64 3 731 1152


e: info@punakaikibeachhostel.co.nz
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
State Highway 6, Punakaiki

www.punakaiki-resort.co.nz

FREEPH: 0800 706 707


tel: +64 3 731 1168 fax: +64 3 731 1163
e: info@punakaiki-resort.co.nz

300m south of the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Punakaiki


Resort oers either standard resort rooms or eco suites.

HAVENZ

State Highway 6, Punakaiki, West Coast

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.

46 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

www.havenz.co.nz

THE GREAT COAST ROAD

Punakaiki to Greymouth
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!
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.

ACCOMMODATION | PUNAKAIKI GREYMOUTH


BREAKERS BOUTIQUE ACCOMMODATION

1367 State Highway 6, Runanga, 14km North of Greymouth

www.breakers.co.nz

tel: +64 3 762 7743 fax: +64 3 762 7743


e: stay@breakers.co.nz
Come share our little slice of paradise.
Boutique beachfront B & B on Punakaiki
Coastline overlooking the Tasman Sea

BEACHVIEW MOTELS

www.beachviewmotels.co.nz
FREEPH: 0800 627 805 fax: +64 3 762 7806
11 kilometres north of Greymouth. 150 metres from swimming beach.
e: bill-judy@xtra.co.nz
Great views of gorgeous sunsets and ocean. Fully serviced.
Cnr Morpeth Street & State Highway 6, Rapahoe

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

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS47

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

48 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

The
Gold Coast
its different...
its New Zealand

Greymouth & the Grey District


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.
Recognised as one of the top train trips in the world, the Tranz 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.
OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS49

GREYMOUTH AND THE GREY DISTRICT

The 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.
From Reefton 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.
The Ikamatua Junction 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.

50 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

GREYMOUTH AND THE GREY DISTRICT

SHOPPING | GREY VALLEY

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS51

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.

52 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

GREYMOUTH AND THE GREY DISTRICT

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].
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.
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.

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

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS53

GREYMOUTH AND THE GREY DISTRICT

ACTIVITIES | GREYMOUTH

BEERS TAPAS TOURS TASTINGS


TRADING HOURS: (Nov-Mar) - 10:00am until 8:00pm
(Apr-Oct) - 10:00am until 7:00pm
BEER TASTING: Available anytime during opening hours
TOUR TIMES: 10:30am 3:00pm 4:30pm 6:00pm
Monteiths Brewing Co. 60 Herbert St, Greymouth,
Tel: 03 768 4149 www.monteiths.co.nz

GLOW-WORMS

CAVE TUBING

ZIPLINE
plus GET

1. RIDE RIVER RAPIDS


2. ABSEIL
3. RAINFOREST WALK
4. PLEASURE SPA
5. ROCK HYDROSLIDE
6. CLIFF JUMP

all optional &

SAVE $$

with this multi activity tour

e tour

all in the sam

0800 223 456

fun-nz.com

SHANTYTOWN HERITAGE PARK


Rutherglen Road, Paroa

info@fun-nz.com

www.shantytown.co.nz

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.

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.
54 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

GREYMOUTH AND THE GREY DISTRICT

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

ACTIVITIES | GREYMOUTH
ON YER BIKE!

www.onyerbike.co.nz

511 State Highway 6, 5km north of Greymouth

FREEPH: 0800 669 372


tel: +64 3 762 7438 fax: +64 3 762 7338
e: mike@onyerbike.co.nz
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.

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: info@westcoasttravel.co.nz
The Station Gift Shop - For all your West Coast gifts & souvenirs For unique West Coast Souvenirs &
giftware call into The Station Gift Shop, based in the Railway Station, next to the i-SITE. Locally made
arts & crafts, hand carved jade & gold & much more! Open 7 days, free WIFI & customer car parking!

HISTORY HOUSE PHOTOGRAPH MUSEUM

www.greydc.govt.nz

27 Gresson Street, Greymouth

tel: +64 3 768 4028

e: historyhouse@greydc.govt.nz

EXPERIENCE A PICTORIAL JOURNEY WITH THE RESILIENT WEST COASTERS OF


THE GREY DISTRICT Photographic Collection of over 20,000 images Family
History, Information & Research Visual Displays and Artefacts from Yesteryear

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS55

GREYMOUTH AND THE GREY DISTRICT

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
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.

SHOPPING | GREYMOUTH
NIMMO GALLERY & STORE
102 Mackay Street, Greymouth

www.stewartnimmo.co.nz

tel: +64 3 768 6499


e: gallery@stewartnimmo.co.nz
A brand new ne art landscape photography
gallery in the heart of Greymouth, Nimmo
Gallery and Store is a must-stop.
Stewart Nimmo's stunning landscape prints,
available framed, on stretched canvas, or
rolled for travel and postage, make perfect
gifts or mementoes to take home.
You'll also ne designer giftware and NZ made
clothing from the Chalkydigits, Lothlorian,
and Koru ranges, as well as beautiful Evolve
charms and other handcrafted jewelery

FOOD AND DRINK | GREYMOUTH


123 Mackay Street, Greymouth
tel: +64 3 768 5959 e: greymouth@rhcafe.co.nz

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.

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.

56 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

GREYMOUTH AND THE GREY DISTRICT

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
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.

GREYMOUTH SEASIDE TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK


2 Chestereld St, Greymouth

www.top10greymouth.co.nz

FREEPH: 0800 867 104


fax: +64 3 768 5873
e: info@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.

THE ASHLEY HOTEL

74 Tasman Street, Greymouth

www.hotelashley.co.nz

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.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS57

GREYMOUTH AND THE GREY DISTRICT

ACCOMMODATION | GREYMOUTH
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
Spacious luxury smokefree ground oor fully
self-contained suites serviced daily. Free wireless
broadband, SKY TV 50+ channels, guest laundry.

BELLA VISTA GREYMOUTH

www.staybellavista.co.nz

33 High St, Greymouth

FREEPH: 0800 BELLAVISTA (0800 235 528)


tel: +64 3 768 7199 e: bellavistagrey@xtra.co.nz
18 Stylish studios, family units. King & queen-size beds. Spa bath
units. Non-smoking, Free Wi-Fi & Alpine/Bus Transfers.

COLERAINE

www.coleraine.co.nz

61 High St, Greymouth

FREEPH: 0800 27 00 77 tel: +64 3 768 0077


fax: +64 3 768 0017 e: enquiries@coleraine.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.

GLOBAL VILLAGE

www.globalvillagebackpackers.co.nz

42 - 54 Cowper Street, Greymouth

tel: +64 3 768 7272

e: globalvillage@minidata.co.nz

Beautifully decorated with global art theme. Super modern


bathrooms and kitchen. Central heating in all rooms.
Free kayaks, bicycles, shing rods. Good memories guaranteed..

GREYMOUTH KIWI HOLIDAY PARK & MOTELS


318 Main South Road, Greymouth

www.greymouthkiwi.co.nz

FREEPH: 0800 101 222 tel: +64 3 762 6768


e: stay@greymouthkiwi.co.nz
Located adjacent to the beach with views of the snow-capped mountains
and beautiful sunsets. We have self-contained motel units, cabins, powered
and non-powered sites. We are pet friendly by arrangement.

GREYMOUTH TOP MOTELS & SEAVIEW APARTMENTS


2 Chestereld St, Greymouth

FREEPH: 0800 867 104


www.greymouthaccommodation.co.nz
e: info@greymouthaccommodation.co.nz
Located right on the beachfront in peaceful Greymouth. We have
brand new luxury apartments and a range of excellent motel units.

NOAHS ARK BACKPACKERS


16 Chapel Street, Greymouth

FREEPH: 0800 662 472


e: stay@noahs.co.nz

www.noahs.co.nz

tel: +64 3 768 4868

Welcome to Noahs Ark. Central & warm private, share & family rooms. Fully made beds.
Comfy lounge, TV room, fully equipped kitchen, large garden with BBQ, Spa
FREE: 100MB wi/day, train pickup, bikes.

PAROA HOTEL

508 Main South Road, Paroa, Greymouth

FREEPH: 0800 762 68 60


e: monk@xtra.co.nz

tel: +64 3 762 6860

Oering 3 generations of genuine West Coast hospitality.Relax in our comfortable


accommodation and enjoy one of the best restaurants in Greymouth.

58 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

www.paroa.co.nz

GREYMOUTH AND THE GREY DISTRICT

Greymouth to Kumara
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.
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?

ACCOMMODATION | GREYMOUTH KUMARA


NEW RIVER BLUEGUMS B & B / SELF-CONTAINED
985 Main South Road, Greymouth

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.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS59

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

60 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

The
Lakes
District

LAKES AND RIVERS TEEMING WITH TROUT AND YOU


WONT EVEN HAVE TO LIE TO YOUR MATES ABOUT THE
ONE THAT GOT AWAY!
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.
OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS61

VISITOR TIP
On some of the lakes and in
the Arnold river, trout fishing is
available all year round.

62 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

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.
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
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.
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

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS63

THE LAKES DISTRICT

ACTIVITIES | LAKE BRUNNER & MOANA


MOANA TROUT FISHING SAFARI
18 Johns Rd, Moana

tel: +64 3 738 0886

www.brentbeadle.com

e: brent@brentbeadle.com

Fishing tours on rivers or lakes, gear supplied. Scenic lake tours in all weather
boat. Great lake views. We hold the record for y shing - 28 landed in one day.
Spin Fisherman catered for. Bed & breakfast self-contained cottage available.

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.

LAKE BRUNNER PADDLEBOARDS

34 Ahau St, Moana

www.lakebrunnerhotel.nz

FREEPH: 0800 525 327 tel: +64 3 738 0083


e: info@lakebrunnerhotel.nz
Stand up Paddle Board hire available from Lake Brunner Hotel
Reception. Enjoy the pristine and tranquil rainforest lake and explore
the water edges and river tributaries. No experience required..

64 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

THE LAKES DISTRICT

SHOPPING | LAKE BRUNNER & MOANA


LAKE BRUNNER SERVICE CENTRE
2137 Arnold Valley Road, Moana

tel: +64 3 738 0029

e: lbsc@xtra.co.nz

7 Day On the Spot Dairy, Sandwiches and lled Breadrolls made fresh daily, Cash
ATM (inside), Fuel Supplies, Postal Agency, Lotto, Fishing Licenses and Supplies,
Mechanical & Engineering Repairs, Boat Servicing and Repairs, LPG Bottle Filling.

FOOD & DRINK | LAKE BRUNNER & MOANA


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.

ACCOMMODATION | LAKE BRUNNER & MOANA


LAKE BRUNNER COUNTRY MOTEL & HOLIDAY PARK
2014 Arnold Valley Rd, Moana

www.lakebrunnermotel.co.nz

FREEPH: 0508 738 014 tel: +64 3 738 0144 fax: +64 3 738 0143
e: LBCMotel@xtra.co.nz
Secluded in native bush, self contained cottages / motels.
Superior cabins, powered campervan sites, tent sites, excellent facilities.
Wi, hot spa. BBQ. play area. A warm welcome awaits you at Our Very Special Place.

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 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.

LAKE BRUNNER HOTEL - STUDIO SUITES & APARTMENTS


34 Ahau St, Moana

www.lakebrunnerhotel.nz

FREEPH: 0800 525 327 tel: +64 3 738 0083


e: info@lakebrunnerhotel.nz
The historic Moana Hotel features modern two bedroom apartments, elite studio units,
motel units, bunkrooms, the Kingsher Restaurant & Bar and a motor home park.
Spectacular views of Lake Brunner, join us for a truly memorable experience.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS65

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.

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.

66 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

THE LAKES DISTRICT

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 STAGECOACH HOTEL


6435 Otira Highway, Otira

tel: +64 3 738 2890

www.otirahotel.co.nz
e: info@otirahotel.co.nz

Accommodation, cafe & bar, 16 kms from Arthurs Pass. Rata capital of the world.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS67

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

68 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

Jade
Country
HOKITIKA

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.
OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS69

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
Getting
there
Christchurch over the Southern

In February Kumara Beach is the


starting point for world premier
Alps, Kumara is also the first night multi-sport race Speights Coast
Located
just 15 minutes south of the famed gem
to Coast. Competitors traverse
stop for cyclists on the four day
town
ofCoast
Hokitika
on the Trail
WestCoast
the
South
South
Island - cycling 140kms,
West
Wilderness
the ofthe
Island
of New
running 36kms and kayaking
perfect
placeZealand.
to rest that saddle
67kms over one or two days not
sore butt.
for the faint hearted.
Back in 1876 Kumara was the site
For those who prefer to drive,
of New Zealands last great gold
head south from Kumara following
rush and boasted 50 public bars.
the coast and on a fine day you
You can still wet your whistle at
will get your first look at Aoraki/
the Theatre Royal Hotel which
Mt Cook and Mt Tasman.
has been lovingly refurbished to
reflect those wild old days.
The Arahura River (32km from
Kumara) is the spiritual home
Kumara was home to the Coasts
of Pounamu, (New Zealand
most famous resident Richard
Greenstone). The precious stone
Seddon - still New Zealands
is prized for its strength and
longest serving Prime Minister
beauty and denotes great status
and a larger than life character.
to Maori.
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
Riverto
is 5pm, 7 days (last walk 4.15pm).
Normal
walk Taramakau
hours are 9am
a mecca
forcaf
sports
fishermen
The
licenced
is open
9am until 3.45pm lunch menu available
with salmon, trout and whitebait
until
3pm daily.
caught in season. As well as the
Please
45 minutes
to one
hour to complete the walk.
cycle allow
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
Talk to us about group
Adult
$38
pilgrimage to the Kumara Horse
bookings.
Seniors
$34
Races. Thousands flock to town
for a flutter
family fun Guided tours are available
Children
underand
5 a bit of FREE
but must be booked in
and in true gold town style the
School aged child
$15
winner of the feature race gets a
advance.
Family
passnugget.
$100
real gold
North to
GREYMOUTH

HOKITIKA

AR

TH

UR

STO

RD

KANIERE

RU

ATA

PU

RD

WN

LAKE
MAHINAPUA

RUATAPU

U
IM
-R
CK
STO
OD
WO

RD

South to the
GLACIERS

Hours

Prices

ACCOMMODATION
| KUMARA
1128
Woodstock-Rimu Rd
We accept:
Ruatapu,
Hokitika
THEATRE ROYAL HOTEL
www.theatreroyalhotel.co.nz
freephone:
0508
8733 8677
81 Seddon Street,
Kumara
tel: +64 3 03
736 755
9277 5052
phone:
e: theatreroyalhotel@xtra.co.nz
email:
info@treetopsnz.com
Situated in the heart of Kumara is the award winning Theatre Royal Boutique
Hotel, winner of New Zealands Best Country Hotel 2014 at the Hospitality
awards. Victorian style hotel bedrooms, licenced cafe, bar and restaurant.

www.treetopsnz.com

70 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

AMAZING VIEWS

THRILLS

ALL WEATHER
FAMILY FUN

CAVEFNIRES
SOU

Walk the Treetops

1128 Woodstock-Rimu Rd
Ruatapu, Hokitika
freephone: 0508 8733 8677
phone:
03 755 5052
email:
info@treetopsnz.com

www.treetopsnz.com
OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS71

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.

72 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

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.

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

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS73

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

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.

74 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

JADE COUNTRY

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
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.

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. Catch and release a crawly!

SHOPPING | HOKITIKA
MOUNTAIN JADE HOKITIKA

www.mountainjade.co.nz

41 Weld St, Hokitika

tel: +64 3 755 8007


e: jennyk@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 and one of Hokitikas leading attractions.
We design and manuafacture 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, possum merino clothing and accessories
along with NZs leading brand of ICEBREAKER clothing.

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.
OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS75

JADE COUNTRY

Pounamu/New Zealand Jade


For many New Zealanders Pounamu (Greenstone/
Jade) is more than a souvenir - it has a treasured spiritual
significance.
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
BEACHFRONT HOTEL HOKITIKA
111 Revell Street, Hokitika

www.beachfronthotel.co.nz

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.

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.
Winner of NZ Hall of excellence Beef & Lamb awards 2005 - 14
Central location to the Glaciers Pancake Rocks Treetop Walkway
Hokitika Gorge. Bike Trail and local arts and crafts.
Lonely Planet World Class.
Coast with the Most.

76 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

JADE COUNTRY

ACCOMMODATION | HOKITIKA
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
Family units sleep up to 6. Cottages sleep 4. Studios 2 or 3. All self catering.
Free 100MB Wi. Laundry facilities and breakfasts available. Power sites
for campervans and 3 standard cabins. $30 $155. (2 persons).

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


e: holidaypark@hokitika.com
Standard cabins to modern well appointed tourist ats and motels. Tent
& van sites powered/unpowered. Well-equipped kitchen, laundry and
ablution block. Pets by prior arrangement. Registered Cycle hub.

JADE COURT MOTOR LODGE

www.jadecourt.co.nz

85 Fitzherbert Street, Hokitika

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

KAPITEA LODGE

www.kapitea.co.nz

Hokitika

FREEPH: 0800 186 805 tel: +64 3 755 6805 e: stay@kapitea.co.nz


5 room lodge north of Hokitika overlooking the Tasman Sea with
breakfast, canaps, house wine, and wi free. Dinner served nightly.
Relax in the spa after a long drive. Comfortable and private.

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.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS77

JADE COUNTRY

Hokitika to Glacier Country


via Ross and Hari Hari
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

78 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

JADE COUNTRY

ACTIVITIES | SOUTH HOKITIKA

FREEPHONE 0508 873 3867

1128 WOODSTOCK-RIMU RD RUATAPU, HOKITIKA,


www.treetopsnz.com
SOUTH ISLAND, NZ

ROSS GOLDFIELDS INFORMATION & HERITAGE CENTRE

www.rossgoldelds.co.nz

4 Aylmer St,Ross,Westland

tel: +64 3 755 4077 fax: +64 3 755 4078


e: info@rossgoldelds.co.nz

A great place to experience Rosss gold history


Gold Panning at Centre or Jones Creek Hire a Pan or Purchase your own
Gold Nuggets & Jewellery Can cater for large groups

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.

ACCOMMODATION | SOUTH HOKITIKA


HOTEL HARI HARI
42 Main Road, Hari Hari.

FREEPH: 0800 833 026


e: hhmi@xtra.co.nz

www.hotelharihari.com
tel: +64 3 753 3026

A true country style hotel in a rural village half way between Franz Josef
Glacier and Hokitika - the perfect place to stop for lunch or for the night.

PARAMATA LODGE

www.paramatalodge.co.nz

Bold Head Rd, Ross, Westland

tel: +64 3 755 4250


e: stay@paramatalodge.co.nz
Luxury B&B with dining and wilderness activities 35km south of Hokitika
enroute to Franz Josef Glacier. Spacious, sophisticated & artistic. Mountain
to sea views, beach and forest walks, guided tours and kayaking.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS79

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

80 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

Glacier
Country

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.
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.
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GLACIER COUNTRY

Whataroa and Okarito


Franz Josef is 135km or 1hr 45mins continuous drive
south from Hokitika through verdant rainforest
encompassing stunning roadside waterfalls and pristine
lakes. It is also home to NZs only White Heron colony
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 which
have access to NZs only white
heron breeding colony (OctoberMarch). 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
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.

82 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

GLACIER COUNTRY

The area was originally inhabited


by Maori visiting for seasonal
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.
At Okarito Lagoon you can 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.

ACTIVITIES | WHATAROA
GLACIER COUNTRY SCENIC FLIGHTS

www.glacieradventures.co.nz

Whataroa

FREEPH: 0800 423 463


tel: +64 3 753 4096 e: ice.info@xtra.co.nz
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

ALPINE FAULT TOURS

www.alpinefaulttours.co.nz

Main Road, Whataroa Village

FREEPH: 0800 556 244 cell/text: +64 27 209 6018


e: alpinefaulttours@xtra.co.nz
Awesome Forces of Mother- Earth Exposed in Glacier Country. Complete your experience
of Glacier Country at the exposure of the secret of the magnicent Alps creation. Stand
astride two continental plates that have been thrust up from the depths of the earth.

ECO RAFTING ADVENTURES

www.ecorafting.co.nz

Hokitika

FREEPH: 0508 669 675 tel: +64 3 755 4254


e: info@ecorafting.co.nz
Whitewater rafting trips from easy to extreme, also oering
heli rafting, multi day expeditions and adventure shing trips.
Half day to multi day rafting/camping expeditions.

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.

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VISITOR TIP
Even on days of inclement
weather there are many
attractions and activities to
satisfy all visitors

84 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

GLACIER COUNTRY

Franz Josef

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

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

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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.

86 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS87

GLACIER COUNTRY

ACTIVITIES | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER


FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER GUIDES

Main Road (next to Mobil Petrol Station), Franz Josef

www.franzjosefglacier.com

FREEPH: 0800 484 337


tel: +64 3 752 0763
e: walks@franzjosefglacier.com

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.

FRANZ JOSEF HELI-HIKE


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

GLACIER HELICOPTERS FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER


Main South Road, SH 6, Franz Josef Glacier

www.glacierhelicopters.co.nz

FREEPH: 0800 800 732


tel: +64 3 752 0755
fax: +64 3 752 0778
e: franz@glacierhelicopters.co.nz
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.

88 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

GLACIER COUNTRY

ACTIVITIES | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER


GLACIER HOT POOLS

www.glacierhotpools.co.nz

Cron Street, Franz Josef

FREEPH: 0800 044 044


tel: +64 3 752 0099
e: info@glacierhotpools.co.nz
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
after 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.

THE HELICOPTER LINE FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER


Main South Road, SH 6, Franz Josef

www.helicopter.co.nz

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.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS89

GLACIER COUNTRY

ACTIVITIES | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER


ACROSS COUNTRY QUAD BIKES
Franz Josef Glacier

www.acrosscountryquadbikes.co.nz

tel: +64 3 752 0123


fax: +64 3 752 0121
e: info@acrosscountryquadbikes.co.nz
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.

AIR SAFARIS FRANZ JOSEF


Main Road, Franz Josef

www.airsafaris.co.nz

FREEPH: 0800 723 274


tel: +64 3 7520 716 fax: +64 3 7520 701
e: franz@airsafaris.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

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: info@scenic-ights.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

SKYDIVE FRANZ
Franz Josef

www.skydivefranz.co.nz

FREEPH: 0800 458 677


e: info@skydivefranz.co.nz
18,000ft - NZs highest skydive. Skydive surrounded by
NZs highest mountains incl Aoraki/Mt Cook, Franz Josef
& Fox Glaciers, native rainforest, rivers & coastal views.
Choose from 12,000ft, 15,000ft or 18,000ft
15 - 20 min ight to altitude.
6 - 8 min parachute ride.
Voted NZs Best Skydive 2011/12.
BOOK NOW!
90 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

GLACIER COUNTRY

ACTIVITIES | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER


ACTIVE ADVENTURES NEW ZEALAND

www.activeadventures.com

tel: 0800 234 726 tel: +64 3 450 0414


e: nz@activeadventures.com

We oer a variety of small group adventure tours, hiking, paddling and biking
around NZ! With legendary service well guide you through our beautiful country
- you'll meet locals, enjoy the outdoors & eat sumptuous home cooked meals.

GLACIER COUNTRY KAYAKS

www.glacierkayaks.com

64 Cron St. Across from the Glacier Hot Pools, Franz Josef

FREEPH: 0800 423 262


tel: +64 3 752 0230 e: paddle@glacierkayaks.com
Join us on a unique kayak adventure and kiwi sanctuary tour, 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!

FOOD & DRINK | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER


FULL O BEANS CAF

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

KING TIGER EASTERN EATING HOUSE & BAR


70 Cron Street, Franz Josef

tel: +64 3 752 0060

www.kingtiger.co.nz

e: kingtigernz@xtra.co.nz

We bid you welcome to KingTiger. Our philosophy is that even


a simple meal can become a feast when taken with friendly
company. We present special dishes from South & East Asia.

LANDING RESTAURANT & BAR


Main Road, Franz Josef

tel: +64 3 752 0229

www.thelandingbar.co.nz

e: speightslandingbar@xtra.co.nz

At the Speight's Landing Bar and Restaurant we believe we've made 'Our Place'
a special place where you will be treated like royalty without being pretentious,
where every night is a celebration and every occasion made memorable.

ACCOMMODATION | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER


ALPINE GLACIER MOTEL, FRANZ JOSEF
17 Cron St, Franz Josef

www.alpineglaciermotel.com

FREEPH: 0800 757 111


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

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.
OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

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GLACIER COUNTRY

ACCOMMODATION | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER


FRANZ JOSEF TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK State Highway 6, Franz Josef, Franz Josef Glacier

www.franzjoseftop10.co.nz

FREEPH: 0800 467 897


e: info@franzjoseftop10.co.nz
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.

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
Spacious and stylish studio and one & two bedroom
units and new executive studios. Kitchen facilities.
Continental breakfast available. High Chair and Cot available.
Our Luxury Suites have a large Queen Bed.

SCENIC HOTEL

www.scenichotels.co.nz

Main Road, Franz Josef

FREEPH: 0800 696 963


tel: +64 3 752 0729
e: franzjosef@scenichotels.co.nz
Close to the edge of one of NZ's most
spectacular natural attractions, we welcome
you to this enticing and dramatic region.
A 130 room newly refurbished hotel situated on the edge
of the Westland World Heritage Park. Centrally located,
restaurant and bar. Great base for glacier explorations.

TE WAONUI FOREST RETREAT

www.tewaonui.co.nz

Wallace Street, Franz Josef

FREEPH: 0800 696 963


tel: +64 3 752 0555
e: tewaonui@scenicgroup.co.nz
A stunning, unique luxury hotel surrounded by native
rainforest. Nestled between the mountains and
the sea with a World Heritage Glacier just minutes
away, this exclusive retreat oers an experience you
wont nd anywhere else in the world. 100 room
luxury hotel, restaurant oering sumptuous menus
including a 5 course degustation, lounge and bar.

58 ON CRON

58 Cron Street, Franz Josef

FREEPH: 0800 662 766


e: info@58oncron.co.nz

www.58oncron.co.nz
tel: +64 3 752 0627
fax: +64 3 752 0624

16 Self contained units


Spa studio, studios, 1 and 2 bedroom units
Guest laundry and BBQ area

Opposite Glacier Hot Pools


300m to village and activities
50+ sky channels

92 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

GLACIER COUNTRY

ACCOMMODATION | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER


BELLA VISTA MOTEL FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER
34 Cron Street, Franz Josef

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. Free multi device in room Wi-Fi.

FRANZ JOSEF OASIS

www.franzjosefoasis.co.nz

Franz Josef Highway 6, Franz Josef Glacier

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.

GLACIER VIEW MOTEL

www.glacierviewmotel.co.nz

SH6, Franz Josef.

FREEPH: 0800 4 84397 tel: +64 3 752 0705


e: glacierview@callplus.net.nz
Situated 2.5km north of Franz Josef township, we can oer you fully self-contained studios
& one and two bedroom units, set within the Westland national park. Clean comfortable
accommodation at a reasonable price. Pets allowed by prior arrangement only..

GLENFERN VILLAS FRANZ JOSEF

www.glenfern.co.nz

State Highway 6, Franz Josef

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

HOLLY HOMESTEAD B&B

www.hollyhomestead.co.nz

2900 Franz Josef Highway, Franz Josef Glacier

tel: +64 3 752 0299

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.

RAINFOREST RETREAT & HOLIDAY PARK

www.rainforestretreat.co.nz

46 Cron Street, Franz Josef Glacier

tel: +64 3 752 0220

e: comestay@rainforestretreat.co.nz

Immerse yourself in the spectacular view of mountains and bush


scenery of New Zealand's west coast. Rainforest Retreat oers a
unique getaway with options suited to various budgets and needs

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 with views to the Franz Josef Glacier & Alps

YHA FRANZ JOSEF


2-4 Cron St,, 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
Modern, warm and nestled in rainforest. Private / Family /
Shared / Ensuite rooms, free sauna, friendly sta, travel desk.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS93

VISITOR TIP
Walking access to the
recommended viewing points
of the Glacier is available in most
weather conditions - check with
guides before venturing out.

94 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

GLACIER COUNTRY

Fox Glacier
& Lake
Matheson

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.
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. 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

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS95

GLACIER COUNTRY

ACTIVITIES | FOX
GLACIER HELICOPTERS FOX GLACIER
Main South Road, SH6, Fox Glacier

www.glacierhelicopters.co.nz

FREEPH: 0800 800 732


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

The West Coast glaciers are


imposing, powerful.
Our scenic ights oer stunning
views and glacier landings. 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 information
on a ight to suit you.

THE HELICOPTER LINE FOX GLACIER


Main South Road, SH 6, Fox Glacier

www.helicopter.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.
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.

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
Take a breathtaking guided trip on the West
Coasts biggest glacier amidst fascinating
ice formations with New Zealands most
experienced glacier guiding company.
We oer trips to suit most tness levels and budgets.
Fox Trot: Half Day Walk
Flying Fox: Helihike
Fox Trail: Terminal Face Walk
Fox It Up: Heli Ice Climbing Adventure
Browne Fox: Chancellor Dome Heli-Treks
Experiences may dier from those advertised.
Please check the website for up to date information..
96 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

GLACIER COUNTRY

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
number1). With Aoraki/Mt Cook
in the background how can you go
wrong?

ACTIVITIES | FOX
FOX AND FRANZ JOSEF HELISERVICES - FOX GLACIER
Main Road, Fox Glacier

www.scenic-ights.co.nz

FREEPH: 0800 800 793


tel: +64 3 751 0866 fax: +64 3 752 0764
e: info@scenic-ights.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

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS97

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

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.

FOOD & DRINK | FOX


MATHESON CAFE & REFLECTIONZ GIFTS & GALLERY
Lake Matheson, Fox Glacier

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 Gifts and Gallery here too, it is the ultimate in
contemporary souvenir shopping quality, unique N.Z. gifts, 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.

ACCOMMODATION | FOX
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

BELLA VISTA MOTEL FOX GLACIER


55 Main Road, Fox Glacier

tel: +64 3 751 0129

fax: +64 3 751 0723

www.stayfoxglacier.com
e: bvfox@xtra.co.nz

"Location, Location, Location". Aordable, superior quality accommodation to


suit all budgets and travellers. Quiet central location with restaurants within
walking distance. Onsite Spa Pool/Hot tub & BBQ. Complimentary Wi.
98 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

GLACIER COUNTRY

Lake Matheson
At Lake Matheson near Fox Glacier, nature has provided
the View of Views. The waters of Lake Matheson are
dark brown, so on a calm day they create the ideal surface
for reflections of New Zealands highest mountains
including Aoraki / Mt Cook.
Lake Matheson was formed
about 14,000 years ago when the
Fox Glacier retreated and left a
depression which later filled with
water. The Lake Matheson Walk is
an easy walk that heads through
ancient native forest, including

tall rimu and kahikatea trees, to


a pontoon that extends out onto
the lake and continues around the
lake. The walk from the car park
takes 40 minutes to the pontoon,
or 1.5 hours around the lake.

ACCOMMODATION | FOX
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. 20
luxurious rooms with beautiful ensuites, balconies. Guest lounge, internet,
library, laundry, lift, undercover parking. Sumptuous breakfasts included

HEARTLAND HOTEL FOX GLACIER

www.heartlandhotels.co.nz

Cook at Road, Fox Glacier

FREEPH: 0800 69 69 63 tel: +64 3 751 0839


e: fox@heartlandhotels.co.nz
Experience southern hospitality at the Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier,
nestled at the foot of the Southern Alps. 69 rooms with dining available
at The White Cafe and Bar. Located right in the township.

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
Stunning Views Of Mt Cook & Mt Tasman.19 Super king bed studio rooms.Breakfast
restaurant onsite.Perfectly located to explore the West Coasts glacier region.

THE WESTHAVEN FOX GLACIER


29 Main Road, State Highway 6, Fox Glacier

www.thewesthaven.co.nz

FREEPH: 0800 369 452 tel: +64 3 751 0084


fax: +64 3 751 0094 e: host@thewesthaven.co.nz
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

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS99

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,

100 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

GLACIER COUNTRY

and you might get to see a giant


salmon or trout 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

www.salmonfarm.co.nz

Haast Highway, Paringa River, South Westland

FREEPH: 0800 100 837


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 tel: +64 3 751 0095


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.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS101

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

102 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

The
Gates of
Haast

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!
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.
OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS103

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!

104 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

HAAST

Haast &
Jackson Bay
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

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS105

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.

ACTIVITIES | HAAST
WAIATOTO RIVER SAFARI

www.riversafaris.co.nz

1921 Haast-Jackson Bay Rd, Haast

FREEPH: 0800 538 723 tel: +64 3 750 0780


e: info@riversafaris.co.nz
Premier eco-jet boat tour of 2.25 hours. Experience the remote
beauty of the forest and river, listening to native birds, touching
the forest and learning about the rich history. Pause for photos
and informative commentary on the journey up the river.
Optional forest stroll
All weather boat (roof on boat )
Warm jackets available
Life jackets provided

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 left spellbound.

GREENSTONE HELICOPTERS
Cnr Marks Rd & S.H. 6, Haast

www.greenstonehelicopters.co.nz

tel: +64 3 750 0728


e: info@greenstonehelicopters.co.nz
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


The Red Barn, SH6, Haast

www.haastriver.co.nz

FREEPH: 0800 865 382 fax: 03 750 0181


e: info@haastriver.co.nz
Journey through the heart of this World Heritage Area.
Innovative fully enclosed boats allow access for all
ages to the unique Haast River Valley.

106 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

THE GATES OF HAAST

SHOPPING | HAAST
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.
Recommended by Lonely Planet included in the recent Great New Zealand Cookbook
listed in AA as one of the top 101 things to do in NZ

ACCOMMODATION | HAAST
HERITAGE PARK LODGE

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.

HAAST RIVER TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK

www.top10.co.nz/parks/haast-river

SH6, Haast

FREEPH: 0800 624 847 tel: +64 3 750 0020


e: info@haasttop10.co.nz
A picturesque Holiday Park bordered by native bush-clad hills with a wide range of
quality accommodation to suit. Spacious sites for your Caravans, RVs and tents.

HEARTLAND WORLD HERITAGE HOTEL

www.heartlandhotels.co.nz

Haast Jackson Bay Road, Haast

FREEPH: 0800 69 69 63 tel: +64 3 750 0828


e: haast@heartlandhotels.co.nz
Heartland World Heritage Hotel is ideally located halfway between the Glaciers
and Wanaka, oering 54 hotel rooms, caf/bar, restaurant, internet and tour desk.

HAAST BEACH HOLIDAY PARK


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.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS107

THE GATES OF HAAST

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS108

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.

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS109

Rai

SEAVIE

250 m

Historic Lighthouse

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T
STOU ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014
110 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN

ROAD

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rit

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BEACH ST

NQ

STON

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STAFFORD ST

Ambulance
Station

INDUST

Hokitik

SALE ST

HALL ST

BEALEY ST

Town
Clock

KILKENNY
PARK

SO

Hokitika Heritage Walk GLAD


CHAM

BRITTAN ST

REVELL

REVELL

ika B
each

ST

Walk

All Saints

sid

Sunset Point
Lookout

Westland
High Schl

Westlan
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Plane
Table
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PARK ST

St
Andrews
HAMPDEN
ST

WELD

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ROLLESTON

FITZHERBE

ST

SEWELL ST

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Tambo Shipwreck
Replica

TUDOR ST

RT ST

IKA BE
ACH

a Heritag
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Hokitik

HOKIT

BONAR DR

DALTON

Hokitika
Cemetery

GIB

500 m

kiosk

Glow-worm
Dell

HOKITIKA

GREY RIVER
ALBERT ST

TAINUI
T
UI S

DER

RD

ST

XAN

LO

CHAPEL ST

TAIN

LEONARD ST

SMITH ST

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GUINESS

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& i-Site

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RO

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PR

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ST

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LO
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PA
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RS

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AY

DO
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CHES

AY
MAWHERA QU

OND

ALE

RICHM
SSO

ON

GRE

111 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

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

112 WEST COAST OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2014

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