New Zealand
West Coast
Wild coastline, ancient rainforest and twin glaciers
About West Coast
Sandwiched between the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea, the West Coast (Te Tai Poutini) is New Zealand at its rawest — 600 kilometres of empty beaches, dense temperate rainforest, glow-worm caves and two of the world's most accessible glaciers.
The Coast is sparsely populated and proudly distinct, with a frontier history of gold rushes, greenstone (pounamu) and coal. For groups, it delivers some of the country's most cinematic scenery and a refreshingly different pace from the busier east-coast trail.
Signature experiences
- Heli-hike on Franz Josef or Fox Glacier
- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowhole walk
- Lake Matheson sunrise reflection walk
- Pounamu carving demonstration in Hokitika
- TranzAlpine train across the Southern Alps to/from Christchurch
When to visit
October to April delivers the best chance of clear flying weather for glacier heli-hikes; the rainforest is lush year-round.
Highlights
What your group will see
Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes
Layered limestone stacks and dramatic blowholes carved by 30 million years of Tasman Sea swell.
Franz Josef Glacier
A 12km river of blue ice descending from the Southern Alps to within 250m of sea level.
Fox Glacier & Lake Matheson
Franz Josef's quieter twin, paired with the famous mirror reflections of Lake Matheson.
Hokitika & Greenstone Country
The vivid turquoise Hokitika Gorge, Māori greenstone (pounamu) carving and a charming gold-rush town.
Include West Coast in your tour
Every day here is planned with Glatt Kosher catering, supervision and accommodation confirmed in advance.