West Coast – Wild Rainforests, Glaciers & Rugged Shores

Known simply as "The Coast" to locals, this region creates one of the world's most spectacular drives (State Highway 6). It is one of the few places on earth where you can see glaciers descending through rainforests almost to sea level.

For campers, this is the ultimate road trip. You can stay at rainforest holiday parks in Franz Josef, freedom camp on the rugged beaches near Greymouth, or find a secluded spot near the limestone arches of Karamea.

Why Go Camping Here?

• The Glaciers: Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are iconic. You can camp in the village and walk to the terminal face or take a helicopter ride onto the ice itself.

• Punakaiki (Pancake Rocks): These 30-million-year-old limestone formations look like stacks of pancakes. At high tide, the blowholes shoot seawater high into the air—a spectacular sight.

• Pounamu (Greenstone): The West Coast is the source of New Zealand jade. You can carve your own necklace in Hokitika or comb the beach to find your own raw stone.

• The Great Walks: The region is home to the Paparoa Track (NZ’s newest Great Walk) and the coastal end of the Heaphy Track.

Must-Do Camping Activities

• Hokitika Gorge: A short walk to see water so turquoise it looks fake. The swing bridge offers the perfect vantage point for photos.

• Oparara Arches: Head north to Karamea to walk through massive natural limestone arches and caves hidden in the bush.

• Shantytown Heritage Park: Experience the gold rush era. Ride a steam train, pan for real gold, and explore a recreated 19th-century pioneer town.

• Lake Matheson: The famous "mirror lake." Go at sunrise or sunset to see Aoraki/Mount Cook perfectly reflected in the dark water.

• Tree Top Walkway: Walk 20 metres above the ground on a steel platform through the canopy of ancient Rimu trees near Hokitika.