A West Coast NZ road trip is one of the most underrated journeys in the South Island. This rugged coastal route between Greymouth and Franz Josef is packed with lakes, gorges, goldmining towns, and glacier views. If you’re planning a loop around the South Island or just driving this section of the coast, you’re in for a trip full of wild scenery and quirky stops. Take your time, we recommend staying at least two nights near Hokitika to enjoy the area properly.
1. Greymouth – Pounamu Pathway & Local Legends
Kick off your West Coast New Zealand road trip in Greymouth, the coast’s largest town. Visit the new Pounamu Pathway experience to explore the cultural and natural stories of the region. Just south of town, families will love Shantytown Heritage Park, a recreated gold rush village complete with steam trains and gold panning.
2. Hokitika – Art, Culture & Gorge Views
Spend time in Hokitika exploring glassblowing studios, pounamu carving, and quirky shops. Don’t miss the bright blue waters of the Hokitika Gorge, and head to the beach for a classic West Coast sunset — driftwood sign included.
3. Lake Mahinapua – Your Base for Exploring the Area
Stay two nights at the historic Lake Mahinapua Hotel, a laid-back pub stay just outside Hokitika. This spot is perfect for exploring the surrounding region at your own pace.
- Bike the West Coast Wilderness Trail (bike hire available nearby)
- Swim or walk around Lake Mahinapua and Lake Kaniere
- Visit West Coast Treetop Walk & Zipline
- Enjoy peaceful nature and bush walks
4. Ross – Gold Panning & Heritage Trails
Ross is a small town with a big gold rush history. Try gold panning and wander the short heritage trails to see relics from the past. Great stop for stretching your legs and learning something along the way.
5. Ōkārito – Scenic Detour with Alpine Views
Take a short side trip to Ōkārito, a quiet coastal village next to the Ōkārito Lagoon, New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland. Walk the Ōkārito Trig Track for one of the best panoramic views on the West Coast, or go kayaking through the peaceful waterways.
6. Franz Josef – Stay Among the Trees
Check in at Rainforest Retreat, one of Franz Josef’s most popular stays surrounded by lush native bush. Enjoy a soak in the spa or relax with a drink under the canopy before your glacier adventure.
7. Explore Franz Josef and Glacier Country
Franz Josef Glacier Guides will take you by helicopter to the glacier, where you can explore sparkling ice caves and crevasses with expert guides. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and must-do on your West Coast road trip.
But the glacier is just the beginning. The wider Glacier Country region is packed with other incredible things to do from lush rainforest walks to reflective lakes and scenic flights.
Other must-do’s in the area:
- Walk the Tatare Tunnels Track – an easy trail through native bush that leads to historic water tunnels (bring a torch!)
- Visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre – a great indoor option where you can see the rare rowi kiwi up close
- Explore Lake Mapourika – ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a guided nature cruise
- Walk around Lake Matheson – famous for its mirror-like reflections of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman, especially at sunrise
- Take a scenic flight – get unbeatable views of Franz Josef, Fox Glacier, and New Zealand’s highest peaks
