West Coast Tree Top Walk

Rise above the dense rainforest floor on the West Coast Tree Top Walk, a gently elevated boardwalk that takes you into the canopy of towering rimu, kamahi, and rata trees near Hokitika. The walk is a sensory journey: the damp, earthy scent of the forest, the chatter of native birds, and the creak of the timber underfoot. A 20-metre-high tower offers panoramic views across the treetops to the Southern Alps and Tasman Sea — a perspective that feels both intimate and vast.

Highlights & What to See

• Canopy Walkway: A 250-metre-long boardwalk that winds through the treetops, with informational panels about the forest ecology and Māori uses of native plants.
• Observation Tower: Climb to the top for sweeping views over the rainforest canopy, stretching to the Southern Alps and, on clear days, the Tasman Sea.
• Native Birdlife: Look out for tui, bellbirds, and fantails flitting among the branches; early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best sightings.
• Interpretive Centre: A small centre at the base explains the history of the forest and the conservation efforts that protect this unique ecosystem.

Suggested Time to Spend

Budget about 45 minutes to an hour for the full experience, including time on the tower and a slow stroll along the boardwalk. The walk is easy and accessible for most fitness levels, making it a perfect stop for a self-drive itinerary along the West Coast. Combine it with a visit to the nearby Hokitika Gorge or a wildlife tour in Okarito for a full day of nature.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hokitika Gorge: A short drive away, this turquoise-blue river gorge is a must-see for its surreal colour and short walking track.
• Okarito Lagoon: A haven for birdwatchers, with kayak tours and a kiwi sanctuary; the Okarito Trig Track offers panoramic views.
• Franz Josef / Fox Glaciers: About an hour south, these glaciers provide heli-hikes and valley walks through temperate rainforest.
• Punakaiki Pancake Rocks: North of Hokitika, these dramatic layered rock formations and blowholes are a classic West Coast stop.
• Lake Kaniere: A serene lake with walking trails and swimming spots, ideal for a picnic or a short bushwalk.

Please check official sources for current details.