New Zealand’s South Island West Coast is a wild, untamed region of stunning natural beauty, with Greymouth as the perfect starting point to explore its many wonders. Whether you’re seeking adventure, immersed in nature or keen to experience genuine Kiwi culture, the West Coast has something special for every visitor.
The People and Lifestyle
The people of the West Coast, known as ‘Coasters’, are resourceful, resilient and grounded with a strong sense of community shaped by the region’s isolation. Many work in traditional industries like mining, agriculture and forestry, while tourism has grown in recent years. Their lifestyle is laid-back and deeply connected to nature, with hunting, fishing and hiking being popular activities. Generations of families have lived here, fostering close ties to the land and local traditions. Life moves at a slower pace and Coasters value their tight-knit, supportive community.
Beyond traditional industries like mining, career options on the West Coast in towns like Greymouth, Westport, and Hokitika include roles in tourism, conservation, and healthcare, as these areas increasingly attract visitors and prioritise environmental sustainability. Additionally, local artisans, hospitality professionals, and small business owners find opportunities in serving the region’s unique blend of locals and tourists.
One of the major benefits of living on the West Coast is its affordable housing market, with both house prices and rents considerably lower than in larger New Zealand cities. This cost-effectiveness makes the region an attractive option for those seeking a high quality of life among beautiful surroundings without the financial strain of big-city living.
Culture
The culture of the West Coast is a unique blend of new spirit, Māori heritage and rugged uniqueness shaped by its wild environment. European settler traditions mix with the influences of the indigenous Ngāi Tahu people, the primary iwi of the South Island. Community events, fairs and agricultural shows are central to local life, with highlights like the ‘Hokitika Wildfoods Festival’ celebrating both exotic and traditional foods.
Greymouth’s Monteith’s Brewery is a cultural icon, crafting beers that reflect the untamed essence of the region. Local artisans thrive, creating everything from Māori carvings to jade jewellery, while storytelling through music, art and literature draws inspiration from the region’s rich history and dramatic landscapes.
Westport and Hokitika are two of the West Coast’s liveliest towns, each offering distinct character and historical depth.
Nestled at the mouth of the Buller River, Westport has strong roots in mining and fishing, with a growing eco-tourism industry. The town is a gateway for outdoor adventures, from exploring the rugged Denniston Plateau and local beaches to visiting nature reserves like Cape Foulwind, where scenic trails lead to a fur seal colony. Westport’s community is close-knit, with a deep respect for its environment and a commitment to conservation.
Further south, Hokitika is celebrated as New Zealand’s “Jade Capital” for its abundant pounamu (greenstone) and has a thriving arts and culture scene. This coastal town boasts galleries, workshops, and jade carving studios, and is famous for the annual Wildfoods Festival, which features unique local food and celebrates the adventurous West Coast spirit. Framed by stunning mountains and a driftwood-strewn beach, Hokitika embraces a relaxed lifestyle that honors its Māori heritage and natural beauty.
Both towns capture the warm, resourceful spirit of the West Coast, offering residents and visitors a blend of community, culture and access to the great outdoors.
History
The West Coast’s history is rich and diverse, with Māori settlement predating European arrival by centuries. The region holds special significance for the Ngāi Tahu iwi, who have long utilised its natural resources, including pounamu (greenstone) which can be found in local rivers and mountains. The mid-19th century gold rush dramatically transformed the area, attracting thousands of prospectors from Europe, Australia and China. Towns like Hokitika and Greymouth thrived, with Hokitika briefly becoming New Zealand’s busiest port. While the gold rush eventually disappeared, coal mining emerged as the dominant industry, bringing new settlers and fuelling the growth of towns like Westport and Greymouth. However, mining came with risks, exemplified by the 1896 Brunner Mine disaster, which took 65 lives, marking one of New Zealand’s worst mining tragedies.
Connection to Nature
The West Coast is defined by its raw natural beauty, and this deep connection to the environment plays a significant role in the everyday lives of its people. Whether it’s hiking in the lush rainforests of Paparoa National Park, fishing in the Tasman Sea or exploring the area’s caves and rivers, the outdoors is a huge part of the Coaster identity. Here are some must-see highlights around Greymouth.
- Punakaiki and the Pancake Rocks
Located just 45 minutes north of Greymouth, Punakaiki is home to one of the most iconic geological formations in New Zealand, the Pancake Rocks. These layered limestone formations, shaped by the relentless force of the sea over millions of years, resemble stacked pancakes and offer an extraordinary sight, especially during high tide when blowholes shoot water high into the air. The well-maintained walking tracks make it easy to explore the area and there are several viewing platforms to take in the dramatic coastal scenery.
- Brunner Mine Site
For history enthusiasts, the Brunner Mine Site is a must-visit. Just a 15-minute drive from Greymouth, this site was once one of the largest coal mines in New Zealand. Today, it serves as a memorial to the miners who lost their lives in the 1896 mining disaster. Walking through the well-preserved ruins, you’ll find interpretive panels detailing the significance of coal mining to the region’s industrial past.
- The Great Coast Road
Rated as one of the top coastal drives in the world, the Great Coast Road stretches from Greymouth to Westport and is an essential experience for anyone visiting the West Coast. The road hugs the coastline, offering stunning views of the Tasman Sea on one side and towering cliffs and lush rainforests on the other. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming towns like Runanga and Rapahoe, each offering its own unique character and a chance to explore local beaches and hiking tracks.
- Hokitika Gorge
A little further south, about an hour’s drive from Greymouth, lies the stunning Hokitika Gorge. The bright turquoise waters of the Hokitika River create a surreal and magical landscape. A short walking track leads to a swing bridge that offers jaw-dropping views of the gorge below. The spot is popular for photography and is one of the most visually striking places on the West Coast.
The West Coast near Greymouth offers breathtaking scenery, rich history and endless outdoor adventures. From exploring the Pancake Rocks to stepping back in time at Shantytown, there’s something for everyone. Pack your sense of adventure and discover the wild beauty of New Zealand’s West Coast.
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