TRAVEL

Fly into Queenstown

SEE

What better place to start your West Coast roadie than the beautiful Queenstown? Touch down at the airport, pick up your vehicle, and get ready for an epic adventure. If you’ve got some time to spare, we’d recommend a couple of Queenstown’s oldest tourist attractions. Shotover Jet is one for the adrenaline junkies, while a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw really shows off the scenery. In the evening, head on down to Steamer Wharf to experience one of the many top class restaurants.

STAY

Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park

TRAVEL – 1 HOUR

Queenstown ❯ Wanaka

SEE

Next up is Wanaka, a lakeside town known for its relaxed vibe and stunning alpine scenery. Don’t miss a scenic stroll around Lake Wanaka, home to That Wanaka Tree. Adventure seekers can spend the day hiking Roy’s Peak for panoramic views (5-6 hours return). Another great place to stop is Puzzling World for a mind bending experience.

STAY

Wanaka TOP 10 Holiday Park

TRAVEL – 2 HOURS

Wanaka ❯ Haast

SEE

The drive to Haast takes you past some awe-inspiring mountain passes and crystal-clear rivers—a preview of the beauty to come. The area is also home to remote beaches and dense rainforests. Stop by Thunder Creek Falls for a quick photo op, or explore the windswept shores of Ship Creek, where you might spot dolphins playing close to shore.

STAY

Haast River Motels & Holiday Park

TRAVEL – 1.5 HOURS

Haast ❯ Fox Glacier

SEE

Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier are the jewels in the West Coast’s crown. The Guided Glacier Tours get you right up close, and are among New Zealand’s most unique experiences. Don’t miss the iconic Lake Matheson for beautiful mirror reflections of the Southern Alps. The town of Fox Glacier itself is a quaint base with cosy Cafés & Restaurants, making it a great place to recharge.

STAY

Fox Glacier TOP 10 Holiday Park

TRAVEL

Glacier Country

SEE

In Glacier Country, one night is never enough! Even Air New Zealand recommends staying an extra night in the Glaciers. It’s common for people to explore the Fox Glacier area one day and Franz Josef the next, given they are so close to each other. There are all sorts of stunning Short Walks around the place, brilliant for discovering the region’s natural beauty. The Waiho Hot Tubs are also ideal for relaxing after a long day.

STAY

Fox Glacier TOP 10 Holiday Park

TRAVEL – 2 HOURS

Fox Glacier ❯ Hokitika

SEE

Hokitika, known as the ‘Cool Little Town’ is brimming with arts, history, and natural beauty. We recommend checking out the Treetops Walk on the way in. You also won’t want to miss the Hokitika Gorge, with its vivid turquoise waters framed by lush green forest. Known for its local greenstone shops, Hokitika is also an ideal place to pick up a unique souvenir. You can also stroll along Hokitika Beach, and keep an eye out for the town’s famous driftwood sculptures.

STAY

Hokitika Holiday Park or Hokitika Kiwi Holiday Park

TRAVEL – 1 HOUR

Hokitika ❯ Punakaiki

HIGHLIGHTS

Home to the iconic Pancake Rocks & Blowholes, Punakaiki is a geological marvel you won’t want to miss. These limestone formations, layered like stacks of pancakes, put on a spectacular show when the tide is right. Afterward, explore nearby trails through Paparoa National Park. Known for its native rainforest and coastal vistas, it’s a great place to stretch your legs and add a touch of wilderness to your road trip.

STAY

Punakaiki Beach Camp

TRAVEL – 1.5 HOURS

Punakaiki ❯ Reefton

SEE

Reefton’s rich history and welcoming small-town charm is a refreshing change of pace along the West Coast route. Take the Historic Walk around town to discover more than twenty heritage buildings, many of which date back to the 19th century. Enjoy a cup of billy tea in front of the fire at the 1860s style Miners’ Hut, as you watch steel being shaped by a blacksmith. The smiths are great for a good story, so settle in and let them take you back in time! If you find yourself dreaming of gold, you can hire a pan from the visitor centre and try it out for yourself. The best place to pan for gold is Slab Hut Creek. Make sure to pick up a brochure for some local tips!

STAY

Reefton Motor Camp

TRAVEL – 1 HOUR

Reefton ❯ Greymouth

SEE

The largest town on the West Coast, Greymouth is a fantastic spot to dive into the region’s history and culture. Explore the Monteith’s Brewery for a taste of local craft beer, or visit Shantytown Heritage Park for another glimpse into New Zealand’s gold-mining past. Greymouth is a great base for outdoor activities too, with a number of great Walking Trails nearby. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, we recommend the Point Elizabeth Coastal Walkway or the Coal Creek Falls Track. Pack your togs (or bathing suits) too, as both tracks have great swimming spots along the way!

STAY

Greymouth Seaside TOP 10 Holiday Park

TRAVEL

Fly out of Hokitika

SEE

Phew, what an adventure it’s been! On your last day, why not explore a few shops around Greymouth to see if you can find that perfect souvenir? Or take things slow and relax at one of the local cafes? When you’re ready, take the short drive back to Hokitika in time to drop off your vehicle, before catching your flight out.