West Coast highlights
Lake Wahapo with Mount Adams
in the background, Westland
The geography of the West Coast Tai Poutini region ranges from 600 km of windswept coastline to the majestic Southern Alps Kā Tiritiri o te Moana. Wetlands and lakes spread along coastal plains which wind back up river valleys.
Glaciers are a feature of the southern part of the region - the most notable being the Fox Glacier/Te Moeka o Tuawe and the Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere. The central and northern West Coast feature a karst landscape which is home to many world famous caves.
There are two kiwi sanctuaries, two national parks and parts of three others, and part of the Te Wāhipounamu South West New Zealand World Heritage Area in the region. The West Coast has a remarkable collection of natural features which includes rainforests, glaciers, wetlands and an ocean habitat that is home to the world's stronghold population of hector's dolphin.
The Conservancy manages a range of threatened plants and animals some of which are only found on the West Coast Tai Poutini, and actively manages a number of historic sites.
Rowi are New Zealand’s rarest kiwi, with an estimated 300 surviving in just 10 000 hectares in South Okarito Forest, in South Westland.
The Franz Josef Glacier offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience a dynamic glacial environment, in a temperate environment, while being within easy driving and walking distance from the main highway.
Westland Tai Poutini National Park is located about half way down the South Island on the West Coast of New Zealand.
An A-Z listing of all West Coast tracks and walks.