West Coast
Isolated by the long spine of the Southern Alps, the West Coast is the least populated part of the South Island, with heavily forested slopes and a wild, wave-pounded coastline. Those who do live here are independent-minded, often descended from prospectors and miners. The old mining town themselves have experienced cycles of boom and bust – their rustic charms are gaining new appeal with intrepid travelers who come to hike the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers and see the famous Pancake Rocks.
The west is considerably wetter than the east – frequent bursts of torrential rain create lush, fern-filled rainforests and dozens of waterfalls.
topWestland/Tai Poutini National Park
This park, which stretches from the Alps to the Tasman Sea, contains the West Coast’s biggest draws – the impressive Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. These are two of the South Island’s largest glaciers, and slope steeply from around 10,000 feet to nearly sea level. The glaciers can be explored on guided walks, scenic flights, heli-hikes and by kayaking on the area’s lakes and rivers.
Another striking feature of this park is Lake Matheson, which reflects Mount Cook and Mount Tasman in its waters on still mornings. At the northwest edge of the park, Okarito Lagoon, one of New Zealand’s largest wetland areas, offers fantastic birdwatching.
topPaparoa National Park
Small and remote, this coastal park is best known for the striated stacks of limestone known as the Pancake Rocks. At high tide, waves crash through blowholes in the weathered stone, rising up in dramatic plumes of spray. The landscape also features interesting glowworm caves and scenic gorges.
topAccommodations
Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki
This lodge offers gourmet food and relaxed comfort in the heart of the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Site, a one-hour drive south of Fox Glacier.