West Coast Tree Top Walk

High above the lush temperate rainforest of the West Coast, the West Coast Tree Top Walk offers a unique perspective on New Zealand's ancient podocarp forest. This accessible, gently elevated walkway takes you through the canopy of rimu, kahikatea, and miro trees, culminating in a towering spiral observation tower that rises 47 metres above the forest floor. The experience is both tranquil and exhilarating, with bird's-eye views of the treetops and, on clear days, glimpses of the Southern Alps and Tasman Sea. It's a perfect stop for nature lovers and families seeking a gentle adventure off the beaten path.

Highlights & What to See

• Canopy Walkway: A 450-metre-long, wheelchair-accessible boardwalk that meanders through the treetops, with informative panels about the forest ecology.
• Spiral Observation Tower: Climb the 47-metre tower for panoramic views over the rainforest canopy and beyond. The tower's design minimises sway, so it feels surprisingly stable.
• Rimu and Kahikatea Giants: Look out for towering rimu trees, some over 800 years old, and the distinctive white pine (kahikatea) that once dominated the swampy lowlands.
• Birdwatching: Keep an eye out for tui, bellbirds, and the occasional kererū (wood pigeon) flapping through the canopy.
• Sustainable Design: The walkway is built with minimal impact on the forest, using steel supports that avoid damaging tree roots.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 30 to 45 minutes on the walk, including time to linger on the tower. If you're a keen photographer or birdwatcher, allow an hour. The walk is self-guided and easy to fit into a half-day itinerary between Hokitika and Franz Josef. It's also a great rainy-day option, as the canopy provides some shelter and the forest is at its most atmospheric when damp.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hokitika: Just a 15-minute drive north, this charming town is famous for its pounamu (greenstone) carving, wild beaches, and the Hokitika Gorge with its vivid turquoise water.
• Lake Kaniere: A serene lake surrounded by native bush, ideal for a picnic, short walk, or kayak. About 20 minutes east of Hokitika.
• Franz Josef Glacier: An hour's drive south, you can take a guided glacier walk or scenic helicopter flight over the ice.
• Fox Glacier: A further 20 minutes south of Franz Josef, offering similar glacier experiences and the stunning Lake Matheson.
• Okarito Lagoon: A peaceful coastal lagoon with kayaking and birdwatching, including the rare white heron (kotuku). About 30 minutes south of the Tree Top Walk.

Please check official sources for current details.