Hokitika
The township of Hokitika was built on the pioneering spirit of the West Coast settlers. A busy port in its heyday it then became a centre for the West Coast gold rush and more recently has become known for its Jade or Greenstone crafts. Here you will find many shops selling intricately carved pieces as well as other fine arts and souvenirs. The town itself has several historic buildings as well as many fine dining restaurants and cafes.
The windswept beach is often covered with driftwood and the mountain scenery is quite spectacular with Mt Cook in view. Around 15 kilometres inland you will find Lake Kaniere, an idyllic spot to take bush walks or simply relax and take in the view. Just south of the town on State Highway 6 is Lake Mahinapua Scenic Reserve where you can enjoy some short walks. The Hokitika Gorge, around 45 minutes from the centre of is a magnificent granite gorge lined with beautiful native bush. A swing bridge just 2 minutes from the car park takes you over milky blue green pools and a short walk delivers you to large moss covered boulders to explore.
West Coast Treetops Walkway Hokitika
Come and enjoy a leisurely 45 minute to one hour stroll through the beautiful West Coast rainforest tree tops. Experience an exhilarating tree top adventure amongst temperate tree top giants. Experience life with the birds high in the ancient Rimu and Kamahi tree Canopy. There is easy access for all to enjoy along a steel platform 20 metres high and over 450 metres long.
Following your walk, relax in their alfresco dining area, where you can enjoy the view with a wide selection of meal choices off the menu for lunch.
Hokitika Scenic Tours - Customisable
Take a completely personal and customisable tour around the rugged West Coast area, with sights ranging from glaciers and pancake rocks, to gorges and treetop walks, and of course the stunning coastline!
Hokitika Gorge & Lake Kaniere Tour
Explore the breathtaking scenery of Dorothy Falls and tranquil Lake Kaniere surrounded by snow-capped mountains and native forest. Enjoy an optional, short bush walk here if you choose. Your tour also includes the blue-green waters of Hokitika Gorge and a journey through the lush dairy farmlands of the Kokatahi / Kowhitirangi Valley.
The Big Day Out with Cycle Journeys
Immerse yourself in some of the most spectacular landscapes along the West Coast Wilderness Trail. Starting at the Kawhaka Canal, you will ride amidst majestic native forest, pedal through a stunning mountain-ringed valley, cross crystal-clear rivers and then discover one of New Zealand’s most picturesque lakes, Kaniere. The trail then plunges back into the bush for a fun cruise along a historic water race and then down the sweeping tree-lined pathway known as the Pipeline. Take a breath while you meander down peaceful Kaniere Road towards Hokitika before the final leg along the historic Kaniere Tramway and the banks of the Hokitika River.
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