Gillespies Beach

Gillespies Beach, on the wild West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, is a remote, windswept stretch of black sand where the Tasman Sea meets ancient kahikatea forest. This is a place of raw, untamed beauty, with a history of gold mining and a hauntingly beautiful cemetery that tells the stories of early settlers. The drive here is an adventure in itself, winding through dense rainforest and past dramatic coastal scenery.

Highlights & What to See

• Black Sand Beach: Walk the dark sands, often strewn with driftwood, and feel the power of the Southern Ocean. It's a great spot for beachcombing and photography.
• Gillespies Beach Cemetery: A poignant historic cemetery with graves dating back to the gold rush era, nestled in the dunes. It's a quiet, reflective spot.
• Gillespies Beach Track: A short, easy walk from the car park leads to the beach and also connects to the longer Welcome Creek Track through coastal forest.
• Gold Mining History: Look for remnants of old mining equipment and the site of the former settlement. The area was a bustling goldfield in the 1860s.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for seals, penguins, and a variety of seabirds. The beach is also a known nesting site for the endangered Westland petrel.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least 1–2 hours to explore the beach, cemetery, and short tracks. If you're keen on a longer walk or want to soak in the atmosphere, plan for a half-day. The drive from Fox Glacier takes about 30 minutes, so it's easy to combine with other sights in the area.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Fox Glacier – The nearest town, with glacier access walks, helicopter tours, and dining options.
• Lake Matheson – Famous for mirror reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook, just a short drive from Fox.
• Franz Josef Glacier – Another major glacier with guided walks and hot pools, about 30 minutes north.
• Okarito Lagoon – A tranquil wetland with kayaking and birdwatching, home to the white heron.
• Whataroa – The departure point for tours to the Okarito White Heron Sanctuary.

Please check official sources for current details.