New Zealand - DESTINATIONS & HOTELS

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West Coast

The West Coast region stretches 600 kilometres from north of Karamea and Westport to south of Haast. Constrained by the tempestuous Tasman Sea to the west, and the majestic Southern Alps to the east; the West Coast region of New Zealand is no wider than 70 kilometres at its widest point.

This unique coastline is the place of unusual flora and fauna, alpine mountains, and temperate rainforest to coastal wetlands. See the beautiful red flowers of the Rata, and the yellow flowering Kowhai, nikau palms and podocarp forests.

Slowly creeping their way down from the Southern Alps to the rainforests of the coastal strip are Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier. Be amazed at these creaking rivers of ice, as they grind out the ancient rock. You can explore these glaciers by walking to the terminal face, or by half or full-day guided hikes on to the glacier. For an unforgettable experience, take a Heli hike glacier, before strapping on crampons and carrying an ice pick to explore the ice caves. You can also take scenic flights by plane or helicopter to enjoy the glaciers, Mount Cook, and the Southern Alps from the air.