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New Zealand, Oceania · June 26, 2018

Great Coast Road: 11 things to see on New Zealand’s West Coast

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New Zealand’s West Coast on the South Island has a wild, rugged and untouched beauty. With crashing waves, remote rain forests, swinging bridges over turquoise water, and massive glaciers. The scenery offers so much diversity in a fairly small region. If you are planning a trip, here are the top spots on New Zealand’s West Coast that you can’t miss starting on the south and heading north.

11 Things to See on New Zealand’s West Coast

Top locations on South Island New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT

Table of Contents

  • 1. Haast Pass
  • 2. Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier
  • 3. Lake Matheson
  • 4. Hokitika Gorge
  • 5. Pancake Rocks
  • 6. Truman Track
  • 7. Punakaiki Caverns
  • 8. Pororari River Track
  • 9. Cave Creek Track
  • 10. The Great Coast Road
  • 11. Cape Foulwind

1. Haast Pass

If you’re coming from Queenstown, the only way to access New Zealand’s West Coast is through Haast Pass. This is the mountain road that connects Wanaka to Haast. It is a beautiful scenic drive with cascading waterfalls and thick forest.

Haast Pass New Zealand | 11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #haastpass #simplywander PIN IT

Since it often rains, this rugged mountain road is susceptible to mud and rock slides. As a result, the road is often closed when there has been heavy rainfall. Be sure to check the road conditions before going.

Must-see locations along Haast Pass:

  • Blue Pools: Take a short walk through native beech trees until you come to a swing bridge that overlooks crystal blue glacial water. When the weather is good the pools live up to their name. Unfortunately, if it has been stormy then the water gets churned up and it looks like any other river, which sadly was the case when we visited.
  • Thunder Creek Falls: This impressive 300-foot waterfall is easy to access with a short trail off the main road. The waterfall is fed by melting glacier water then flows into the Haast River. It is located about 55 miles north of Wanaka. You will see a sign posted with a small parking lot.
Haast Pass New Zealand Thunder Creek Falls | 11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #haastpass #simplywander PIN IT

  • Fantail Falls: These falls are also located right off the main road. The falls are easy to view but if you want a closer look, take off your shoes and wade in the river. At the base of the falls where you’ll find a track to the left of the falls that allow you to hike up the falls. You can also walk about 100 meters downstream where you’ll find a hidden canyon.
Haast Pass New Zealand Fantail Falls | 11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #haastpass #simplywander PIN IT

2. Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier

Two incredible glaciers can be found on New Zealand’s West Coast, the Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. They reach near sea level, making them some of the most accessible glaciers in the world.

As you’re driving to Fox Glacier, be sure to take a side trip on Glacier View Road. I mean, a jungle road on the way to see a glacier, New Zealand you’ve really outdone yourself this time!

The road is located a little over 2 km south of the Fox Glacier township. Turn right before crossing the Fox River bridge onto Glacier View Road.

Haast Pass New Zealand Glacier View Road | 11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #haastpass #simplywander PIN IT

The road is narrow and unsealed so drive carefully. After about .8 miles you will find a parking area and a short walk to a viewing platform.

Haast Pass New Zealand Glacier View Road | 11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #haastpass #simplywander PIN IT

There are many guided hiking and helicopter tours that allow you incredible access to the glacier.

Or, if you’re feeling extra brave try skydiving! This was voted the most scenic skydiving location in the world by the Travel Channel.

There is also a free option to take the self-guided Fox Glacier Valley Walk to the foot of the glacier. You can’t walk on the glacier without a guided tour, but this 1.6-mile round-trip trail takes you right to the base.

Visit New Zealand's impressive Fox Glacier | 11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #foxglacier PIN IT

The hike is beautiful as you traverse through the valley alongside glacial moraines and the rushing Fox River. You can often see and hear the ice collapse once you reach the base.

Fox Glacier- must see locations on New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT

The trail is found at the end of Glacier Access Road, located just north of the Glacier View Road after crossing the Fox River Bridge.

If you want to visit the Franz Josef Glacier, it can be reached by the 3.7-mile round trip Franz Josef Glacier Trail. If you only have time to visit one glacier I would recommend the Fox Glacier.

Fox Glacier- must see locations on New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT

3. Lake Matheson

Chances are, you’ve probably seen the iconic shot of the snow-capped peaks of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman reflected in the mirrored water of Lake Matheson. It is picture-perfect.

I was so excited to visit this spot and capture that photo. Unfortunately, the day we went it was raining so there was no calm water to reflect on. But if you happen to go on a clear day, I’m pretty confident you won’t be disappointed.

Even a little wind can cause ripples so try to go early in the morning or in the evening for your best chance at capturing the reflection.

The trail takes about 40 minutes as you make your way across a suspension bridge and through native forest alongside Clearwater River.

The name “Clearwater” is misleading as it varies in shades of brown and even orange rust. The color comes from water leaching through the forest floor that surrounds the lake.

Lake Matheson is located about 5 minutes west of Fox Glacier. Take Cook Flat Road to Lake Matheson Road until you reach the parking lot. Be sure to stop at Matheson Cafe and grab a dessert or savory while you’re there!

4. Hokitika Gorge

Be prepared to be blown away by Hokitika Gorge. It is hard to imagine that water this color appears outside of Photoshop! It is unreal to witness the vibrant blue water in person.

Hokitika Gorge New Zealand | 11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #hokitikagorge PIN IT

The glacial river changes shade and color depending on the light and the angle which it is viewed.

Hokitika Gorge looks photo shopped, the color of the water is unreal!-Top locations on South Island New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT

Take the short 15-minute walk through the trees to a viewing platform. Continue down until you cross a bridge, shortly after you’ll come to the banks of the river.

Hokitika Gorge New Zealand | 11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #hokitikagorge PIN IT

There are large boulders and cliffs lining the bank that are perfect for cliff-jumping into the frigid water if you dare!

Cliff jumping at New Zealand's Hokitika Gorge | 11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #hokitikagorge PIN IT

5. Pancake Rocks

The Pancake Rocks are arguably one of the most stunning locations on New Zealand’s West Coast and in all of New Zealand.

Punakaiki rocks are one of the most incredible spots in all of New Zealand- top locations on South Island New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT

Located in Punakaiki, It gets its name from the unique rock formations that look like stacks of pancakes.

New Zealand's Pancake Rocks are one of the most impressive natural formations on the entire island-11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #pancakerocks PIN IT

This geological wonderland is spectacular anytime, but if you visit during high tide you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular show. The massive blow-hole shoots water up the cliffs, especially when the water is rough.

New Zealand's Pancake Rocks are one of the most impressive natural formations on the entire island-11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #pancakerocks PIN IT

The Pancake Rocks are located just off the main highway in Punakaiki, there is a 20-minute loop track that offers incredible views along the way.

New Zealand's Pancake Rocks are one of the most impressive natural formations on the entire island-11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #pancakerocks PIN IT

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Punakaki, be sure to check out the charming Woodpecker Bay Cottage right on the ocean.

The Pancake Rocks are one of our favorite stops on a 10-Day South Island Road Trip. Click the link for the full itinerary!

6. Truman Track

A few miles north of the Punakaiki visitor’s center you’ll see the trailhead for the Truman Track.

Follow the track through native bush to a lookout over the Tasman Sea. Continue down the steps to this beautiful remote beach.

Truman's Beach is a beautiful track and beach off the beaten path- Top locations on South Island New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT

Step under the waterfall as it showers down from the towering limestone cliffs above.

Truman Track is a New Zealand hidden gem-11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #trumantrack PIN IT

Truman Track is a New Zealand hidden gem-11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #trumantrack PIN IT

Explore the caves and enjoy one of the best spots to witness a west coast sunset.

Just be sure to visit during low tide, high tide can often have dangerous rogue waves.

Truman Track is a New Zealand hidden gem-11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #trumantrack PIN IT

7. Punakaiki Caverns

A few minutes north of the Pancake Rocks you’ll also find the Punakaiki Caverns.

This cave system is located a short distance off the main road. Just park alongside the ocean then cross the street to reach the caves.

The caves may seem small at first, but bring a flashlight and you’ll be surprised how far back you can explore.

Exploring the Punkakaiki Caverns-Top locations on South Island New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT

Just wear proper footwear as it can get a little wet and muddy in the back. You may even spot glow worms the farther you go back.

8. Pororari River Track

The Pororari River Track is located just minutes from Punakaiki. This beautiful walking track meanders alongside the Pororari River with steep limestone cliffs and lush forest.

Pororari River Track- Top locations on South Island New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT

An easy 15-minute walk from the parking lot brings you to a beautiful resting spot with a bench by the river.

Pororari River Track New Zealand | 11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #PororariRiverTrack PIN IT

You can continue another 1.5 miles, but the track narrows and becomes a little steeper. You can also rent a kayak to explore even further down the river.

9. Cave Creek Track

The Cave Creek Track is located east of Punakaiki and is also a great hike if you have time.

Cave Creek Track New Zealand | 11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #cavecreektrack PIN IT

The trail is a little less than 2 miles round trip. You’ll start out in grasslands then are quickly transported to what feels like the heart of a jungle as the track descends into a dry creek bed.

Cave Creek Track New Zealand | 11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #cavecreektrack PIN IT

You can scramble over boulders to explore a cave where the river emerges after a storm. If it has been raining do not enter the creek bed.

Tragically, this is also the site of a viewing platform that collapsed in 1995 resulting in the deaths of 13 university students and a teacher.

10. The Great Coast Road

The Great Coast Road is the breathtaking stretch of road that connects Greymouth to Westport. In fact, it was rated as one of the top 10 coastal drives in the entire world by Lonely Planet.

New Zealand's Great Coast road is ranked as one of the top 10 most scenic drives in the world- 11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #greatcoastroad PIN IT

It hugs along the coast lined with the towering ancient limestone cliffs of Paparoa National Park.

Top locations on South Island New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT

Powerful waves crash along the shoreline earning its nickname, “The Wild West Coast”.

Top locations on South Island New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT

It takes about 90 minutes (without stops) to complete the drive, but there are beautiful beaches just begging to be explored.

Top locations on South Island New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT

Take your time admiring the beauty and remember that the joy is in the journey, not just the destination!

Punakaiki- top locations on South Island New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT

11. Cape Foulwind

Cape Foulwind is located about an hour north of Punakaiki. You’ll find it near Westport at the end of the Great Ocean Road.

Discover a seal colony and light house at Cape Foulwind- Top locations on South Island New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT

It is home to a seal colony that can be observed from a viewing deck. The deck can be accessed by a short walk from the Tauranga Bay carpark.

Discover a seal colony and light house at Cape Foulwind- Top locations on South Island New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT

There is also a 2-mile coastal walkway track from the viewpoint to the lighthouse that offers beautiful views over the rocky headland.

New Zealand's Cape Foulwind lighthouse and seal colony | 11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast #newzealand #westcoast #capefoulwind PIN IT

If you’re feeling adventurous, try the nearby Cave Rafting!  Float through the expansive Nile River cave system and discover a magical underworld of glow worms and cave formations.

There is so much beauty to be discovered around every corner on New Zealand’s West Coast. I hope you get a chance to explore these incredible places on your West Coast road trip!

*Be sure to check out our other New Zealand Guides for more travel inspiration!

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11 things to see on New Zealand's West Coast PIN IT
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Posted By: Jamie · In: New Zealand, Oceania

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