Explore the wild beauty of the West Coast. We’ve rounded up six of the best Hokitika walks all under 2 hours, with some taking less than 10 minutes. From glow worms to coastal lookouts and peaceful forest tracks, these easy walks still deliver big views and even bigger character.
1. Hokitika Gorge Walk
Time: 1 hr 30 min loop
Distance: 2km
Location: 30min drive from Hokitika
If there’s one walk you must do near Hokitika, it’s this one. The Hokitika Gorge Walk is famous for its bright turquoise water, swing bridge views, and lush rainforest setting. The track is well-formed and suitable for all ages, with plenty of photo spots along the way.
2. Glow Worm Dell
Time: 2 minutes return
Distance: Very short
Location: Fitzherbert Street, just north of town
One of the easiest Hokitika walks you’ll find — and one of the most magical. This short track just off the roadside leads into a small dell that lights up with glow worms after dark. Bring a torch for the path (but switch it off once you arrive so the glow worms can shine).
3. Lake Mahinapua Walks
Time: 10–30 minutes
Distance: Varies
Location: 10min drive south of Hokitika
For gentle, scenic Hokitika walks, Lake Mahinapua is a top pick. There are a few short tracks around the lake, with birdlife, peaceful bush, and calm water views. Shanghai Bay is a beautiful spot to stop and it’s just across the road from Lake Mahinapua Hotel with a picnic table and easy access to the lake edge.
4. Hokitika Town to Sunset Point and Tohu Whenua Site
Time: 30–40 minutes return
Distance: ~2.5km
Location: Hokitika Beach and River
This easy beach and river walk links together some of Hokitika’s most iconic spots. Start in town and head to the Hokitika Driftwood Sign on the beach for a classic photo stop. From there, follow the shoreline to Sunset Point, where you’ll find the remains of an old shipwreck and sweeping views of the Tasman Sea on one side and the Southern Alps on the other.
Continue along the riverbank to reach the Tohu Whenua site: Hokitika’s Port, Commercial and Government Centre, where you can learn more about the town’s gold rush past and historic role as a major West Coast port.
5. Mananui Bush Walk
Time: 20 minutes return
Distance: 1.5km
Location: Just south of Lake Mahinapua, off State Highway 6
If you’re after short, peaceful Hokitika walks away from the crowds, Mananui Bush Walk is a hidden gem. It winds through native forest filled with rimu, kahikatea, and fern undergrowth, before opening up to a quiet part of the beach. You’ll walk through a stretch of flax just behind the first dune and pop out to a beautiful, remote West Coast shoreline.
6. West Coast Treetop Walk & Zipline
Time: 45–60 minutes
Distance: 450m loop (elevated walkway)
Location: 15min drive south of Hokitika
For a different kind of walking experience, head to the West Coast Treetop Walk. This elevated steel walkway takes you high above the forest canopy, offering stunning views of Lake Mahinapua, the Southern Alps, and surrounding native bush. You can climb the 40-metre spiral tower for an even higher perspective or take the zipline for a fast-paced thrill through the trees. Entry fee applies.
Planning Your Hokitika Stay?
If you’re visiting the West Coast and want somewhere unique to stay, check out Lake Mahinapua Hotel. A historic venue just 10 minutes from town. With group-friendly accommodation, a character-filled bar, and both the lake and beach within walking distance, it’s the perfect base for exploring these Hokitika walks and more.
