A wild, untamed edge of New Zealand—where ancient rainforests, glaciers, and rugged coastlines meet stories carved in stone.

Overview
Stretching down the South Island’s remote western flank, the West Coast is raw, powerful, and unforgettable. Here, nature reigns supreme, glaciers tumble toward lush rainforest, rivers cut through limestone canyons, and the Tasman Sea crashes against dramatic cliffs. Small, character-filled towns dot the coast, where gold rush history and Māori legend still echo. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, walking on ice, or simply breathing in the silence, the West Coast invites exploration at its most elemental.

See and Do

The local favourite
The twin glaciers Franz Josef and Fox are the West Coast’s most iconic attractions. Both are among the few in the world that descend into temperate rainforest. Take a guided hike to the glacier face, or soar above the ice on a helicopter tour with snow landing for a true alpine experience. The nearby glacier towns offer hot pools, cafés and local art galleries, making them the perfect base for adventure and relaxation.

A scene of pure natural beauty
Visit Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki, where layered limestone formations—shaped over 30 million years—line the wild West Coast shoreline. At high tide, seawater surges into hidden caverns and erupts skyward through blowholes, putting on a dramatic natural show. Nearby, the Pororari River Track winds through lush rainforest and towering limestone canyons, offering a serene contrast to the power of the ocean just beyond.

Adventures in nature
This is a place for active exploration. Try caving or tubing through the glowworm-lit waters of the Nile River Caves, or kayak on the still waters of Lake Mapourika, surrounded by rainforest and glacier views. Cycle a section of the West Coast Wilderness Trail, a scenic multi-day ride past lakes, rivers, and old goldmining settlements. Or venture to Ōkārito Lagoon New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland—for birdwatching, kayaking, and hauntingly beautiful sunsets.