West Coast Accommodation & Holiday Homes - Bachcare NZ

The location

Bordered by the Tasman Sea to the west and the Southern Alps to the east, the untouched terrain of the West Coast makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquillity. Aside from the stunning landscape, the region is also known for its unique wildlife, including the iconic kiwi. 

The climate is influenced by its proximity to the ocean, with mild temperatures and high rainfall creating lush rainforests.

Transport to the West Coast is extremely accessible and made convenient by several airports serving the region. By rail, the TranzAlpine train runs from Christchurch to Greymouth and offers what is regarded as one of the most scenic journeys in the world. If you’re travelling by car, the drive also offers incredible scenery of mountain passes, coastal vistas, and lush forests.

Things to do in the South Island’s West Coast

>> Natural wonders

• Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers: One of the most renowned features of the West Coast is the glacier country, home to two of the world’s most accessible glaciers. Take in the magnificent and humbling sites of Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier from the air with a helicopter tour, hike to the base, or take a guided trek along the ice after being dropped off by helicopter or ski plane.
• Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes: As the most visited attraction of the West Coast, this is a must to add to the itinerary. The fascinating rock formations that rise from the Tasman Sea along the coastline earn their name from their unusual shape. Over 30 million years, wind and salt spray have eroded the soft layers of limestone, leaving stacked layers of harder rock to stand. Time your visitation for high tide to see the blowholes in action!
• Oparara Arches: Nestled in the Kahurangi National Park, the three limestone arches are among the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and are renowned for their unique and stunning formations. Carved over millions of years by the forces of water and time, the arches stand as profound monuments to the power of nature.
• Hokitika Gorge: Another trademark of the west coast is the impossibly blue bodies of water, and one of the best places to witness this is at Hokitika Gorge. Accessible via a short 30-minute walk, the vibrant turquoise water paints a surreal picture of the landscape, and makes for an unmissable photo opportunity!

>> Adventure

• West Coast Treetop Walk & Zipline: View the West Coast from new heights at New Zealand’s only treetop walk. Towering 20 metres high and expanding 450m long, take your time strolling amongst the canopies of the Rimu Rainforest. For the ultimate outlook, climb the 106 steps of the Hokitika Tower to marvel at the beautiful views of the Tasman Sea and the Southern Alps, 47 metres above the forest floor. For a heart-racing adventure, take the West Coast Tower zipline, reaching speeds of over 60 kilometres per hour!
• Old Ghost Road: Named after a historical gold-mining route, the Old Ghost Road offers adventurers a journey through the region's rich history and breathtaking scenery. An iconic and challenging multi-day hiking and mountain biking trail, the road spans approximately 85 kilometres through dense native forests, alpine passes, and historic mining sites.
• West Coast Wilderness Trail: A bucket list for cyclists, embark on the truly unique and memorable experience of the West Coast Wilderness Trail, one of New Zealand’s Great Rides. The 132-kilometre trail is perfect for all ages and abilities and is easily accessible, making it suitable for those who just want a taste with a half-day ride through to those who are geared up for the full 4-day ride.
• Glowworm Cave Rafting: Add a splash of adventure to your glowworm experience with Underworld Adventures in Charleston. Join a guided rafting tour deep within the West Coast Rainforest to float through the ancient caves that are home to the famous galaxies of glowworms, and over the gentle rapids of the Nile/Waitakere River.

Recharge between each action-packed day at your West Coast holiday home with Bachcare to complete your experience.