Hokitika

Hokitika is a ruggedly charming West Coast town where the wild Tasman Sea meets lush rainforest and a vibrant arts scene. Once a gold rush hub, today it's a laid-back base for exploring glaciers, gorges, and New Zealand's finest greenstone (pounamu). The town's driftwood-lined beach and sunset views are unforgettable.

Highlights & What to See

• Hokitika Gorge – A short walk leads to a swingbridge over impossibly turquoise water, carved through marble and surrounded by native bush.
• Glow Worm Dell – Just a five-minute stroll from the highway, this free attraction dazzles after dark with thousands of glow worms.
• National Kiwi Centre – Get up close with live kiwi, tuatara, and eels; feedings are a highlight.
• Pounamu (Greenstone) Workshops – Watch master carvers shape local jade; many studios offer hands-on carving experiences.
• Hokitika Beach – Famous for its driftwood sculptures and spectacular sunsets; a perfect evening stroll.
• West Coast Wildlife Centre – See rare rowi kiwi chicks in a conservation setting.

Suggested Time to Spend

Spend one full day in Hokitika to explore the gorge, wildlife centre, and town. If you're driving the West Coast, it's a natural overnight stop between Greymouth and Franz Josef. Add a second day if you want to try gold panning or take a scenic flight over the glaciers.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Franz Josef Glacier – A 1.5-hour drive south; book a heli-hike or valley walk.
• Fox Glacier – Slightly further south, with equally stunning ice views and Lake Matheson.
• Greymouth – 40 minutes north; gateway to the Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki.
• Punakaiki (Pancake Rocks) – Dramatic limestone formations and blowholes, an hour north.
• Arthur's Pass National Park – A scenic 2-hour drive east over the Southern Alps, with alpine walks and waterfalls.

Please check official sources for current details.