Benmore

Benmore is a tiny settlement on the West Coast's wild and rainy edge, best known as the gateway to the dramatic Copland Valley and the start of the Copland Track. This remote spot offers a genuine off-the-beaten-path experience, where the roar of the Copland River and the mist-shrouded peaks of the Southern Alps create a truly atmospheric setting. It's a place for hikers, hot springs seekers, and those who want to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in pristine nature.

Highlights & What to See

• Copland Track & Welcome Flat Hot Pools – A challenging multi-day hike through lush rainforest and alpine scenery, rewarded by natural hot pools at Welcome Flat Hut. Soak your tired muscles while gazing up at the surrounding peaks.
• Copland Valley Scenic Drive – The short, unsealed road from the highway to the track car park offers stunning views of the valley and the river, with frequent glimpses of waterfalls cascading down the steep valley walls.
• Karanga Winery – Surprisingly, this remote area is home to a boutique vineyard producing cool-climate wines. Stop by for a tasting and enjoy the serene vineyard setting with mountain backdrops.
• Glacier Viewing – While Benmore itself doesn't have glaciers, it's a short drive to Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier, where you can take scenic flights or guided walks to see the ice up close.

Suggested Time to Spend

If you're day-tripping, allow at least half a day to walk the first section of the Copland Track to the Welcome Flat Hut (a strenuous 6–7 hour return) or simply enjoy the drive and a short riverside stroll. For a deeper experience, book two nights at Welcome Flat Hut to fully relax in the hot pools and explore the upper valley. Most visitors combine Benmore with a stop at Fox Glacier, so plan for a full day in the area.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Fox Glacier – Just 15 minutes north, the main base for glacier activities, with walks to the glacier terminal face and scenic flights.
• Franz Josef Glacier – A 30-minute drive further north, offering more glacier access, the Terrace Hot Pools, and the West Coast Wildlife Centre.
• Gillespies Beach – A wild black-sand beach 20 minutes west of Fox Glacier, known for its rugged coastline, seal colonies, and historic gold mining relics.
• Lake Matheson – A mirror-still lake near Fox Glacier famous for its reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. The easy loop walk is a must-do.
• Okarito Lagoon – A tranquil coastal lagoon 40 minutes north, perfect for kayaking, birdwatching (look for white herons), and the Okarito Trig walk.

Please check official sources for current details.