Traveling down the West Coast of the South Island, we experienced some of these amazing activities and attractions.
Shanty Town Heritage Park made up of over 30 pioneer buildings in a recreation of a 19th century town inspired by the WestCoast Gold Rushes of the 1860's. We really felt we had stepped back in time here. As a bonus they sold the biggest homemade sausage rolls we have ever seen!
Hokitika Gorge with its vivid turquoise water surrounded bylush native bush. This was an easy walk through the forest to a rocky Gorge where the glacial river's perpetual flow over millennia has carved a rugged route through the sheer granite rocks walls. Various viewpoints and 2 swing bridges gave us awesome views all along the Gorge in both directions.
Hokitika Treetop Walk, a 20m high canopy walkway over mature Rimu and Kamahi trees. We could feel the gentle sway as we explored the platform sand climbed to the top of the tower lifting us 47m above the forest floor, encountering numerous birds and capturing great views out over Lake Mahinapua and to the majestic Southern Alps.
Okarito Lagoon where we took an early morning boat tour of its lagoon and wetlands- over 3000 hectares of it. So much bird life- WhiteHerons, Royal Spoonbills, Oystercatchers, Godwits plus many more, and all whilst having the most fantastic backdrop for our photos. We had a beautifully clear day so we could see Mounts Cook and Tasman with the Kahikatea forest below.Absolutely stunning!
CHECK OUT OUR ADVENTURES THROUGH THE WEST COAST IN OUR VIDEO BELOW!
