West Coast Tree Top Walk

Imagine walking amongst the canopy of a temperate rainforest, 20 metres above the forest floor, with the Southern Alps as your backdrop. The West Coast Tree Top Walk near Hokitika offers a unique perspective on New Zealand's ancient podocarp forest, with a gentle, wheelchair-accessible boardwalk that winds through towering rimu, kahikatea, and miro trees. It's a serene, sensory experience — the smell of damp earth, the chorus of native birds, and the dappled light filtering through the leaves. This is a must-do for nature lovers and anyone seeking a peaceful escape into the West Coast's wild heart.

Highlights & What to See

• Canopy Boardwalk: A 250-metre-long, wheelchair-friendly walkway that rises to a 20-metre-high viewing platform, offering sweeping views over the forest and towards the mountains.
• Viewing Tower: Climb the spiral staircase to the top of the 47-metre-high tower for a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding rainforest, the Tasman Sea, and the Southern Alps.
• Native Birdlife: Keep an eye out for tūī, bellbirds, fantails, and perhaps even the elusive great spotted kiwi — the walk is set in a predator-controlled sanctuary.
• Interpretive Signs: Learn about the unique ecology of the West Coast rainforest, including the ancient podocarp trees and the efforts to protect them.
• Māori Cultural Stories: The site incorporates local Māori history and legends, adding depth to your visit.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours to fully enjoy the walk, including time on the viewing tower and reading the interpretive signs. It's a perfect stop for a leisurely morning or afternoon, and can easily be combined with other activities in the Hokitika area. The walk is accessible year-round, though it's especially atmospheric on a misty day when the forest feels truly enchanted.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hokitika: Just a 10-minute drive north, this charming town is famous for its pounamu (greenstone) carving, the Hokitika Gorge, and the driftwood sculptures on the beach.
• Hokitika Gorge: A short walk leads to a stunning turquoise-blue river flanked by native bush — a photographer's dream.
• Lake Kaniere: A pristine lake surrounded by forest, perfect for a swim, kayak, or picnic.
• Franz Josef Glacier: About 1.5 hours south, you can hike to the glacier's terminal face or take a heli-hike onto the ice.
• Arthur's Pass National Park: Head inland for alpine scenery, waterfalls, and the famous Otira Viaduct lookout.

Please check official sources for current details.