Westland

Westland lies on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand. Its landscape is a combination of rugged narrow coastline, subtropical rainforests and high mountains.

Initially European development was based on gold and coalmining as well as forestry and farming. Now this heritage and the spectacular scenery make tourism a major industry.

Cities

Other destinations

Understand

Parts of Westland receives some of the highest rainfall in New Zealand, and the world. Be prepared and bring a decent raincoat.

See

New Zealand has a series of large national park along the scenic Southern Alps. Westland National Park is one of the most popular and accessible but can only be reached from Westland. The park contains the western slopes of Mt. Cook as well as the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, the two most accessible glaciers in the Southern Hemisphere. It is possible to drive almost to the terminal face of the Franz Josef Glacier.

Punakaiki is situated along the coast south of Westport. The Pancake rocks are a photogenic series of rock columns which have been weathered in such a way that they resemble a stack of pancakes. Sea spray frequently covers the walkways as there are a number of blow holes situated between the columns. On a nice day there is also a good view of the dramatic coastline stretching away to the south.

Lake Matheson is a scenic location near to Fox. When the weather is calm and clear the lake acts as a mirror reflecting the mountains - including Mt Cook - above Fox.

Do

Hike up to and over the snout of Franz Josef glacier.

Hike up to and over the snout of Fox glacier (but don't do both unless you're really bored).

If the weather is nice go on a heli-hike from Fox to the top of the glacier where the ice is blue!

If you're leaving by car get up early and see how many hours you can drive before meeting another vehicle on the road.

Eat

Westland is the major source of Whitebait, a New Zealand delicacy. The tiny fingerlings of native fish are pan fried whole in an egg patty. Other wild foods are also found here.

Drink

At one time Hokitika, alone, had over 100 drinking establishments. Now you will be hard pressed to find that many in the whole of Westland. However, the brewer's tradition has not been lost and beer is still the favoured drink after a hard day's work or travelling.

Sleep

Te Nikau Retreat near Punakaiki is a hostel in the palm forest overlooking the sea. Rooms are split between chalets hidden in the trees and the paths are lit by fairy lamps. The chalets have wood fires and various other amenities. Also, one path leads down to the shore where a sharp rocky promontory sticks out over a small beach. Very pretty at sunset.

Ivory Towers in Fox is a compact hostel offering access to Fox Glacier. It is the only hostel in Fox and has a good range of services.

Stay safe

Stay safe! Literally - the region is quite isolated so if you get in trouble you may have difficult getting medical treatment in a hurry.