The Great Coast Road more than lives up to its name. Recognized by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives this 100 km stretch of State Highway 6 clings to the rugged coastline with the mighty Southern Alps rising in the distance.
Though it can be driven in a single day taking your time allows you to experience windswept lookouts dramatic rock formations lush rainforest and hidden retreats. Whether you bring your own vehicle or fly into Christchurch and pick up a rental car this is a journey best savored at a slow pace.
Cape Foulwind Walkway Seals and Surf
Just south of Westport Cape Foulwind lives up to its name with wild ocean winds but it’s also home to New Zealand’s largest fur seal colony. A short scenic walk along the cliffs leads to a lookout where you can spot kekeno NZ fur seals basking on the rocks and playful pups splashing in tidal pools.
For those who’d rather hit the waves Tauranga Bay just a few kilometers south offers one of the best surf spots on the coast. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned surfer lessons with West Coast Surf’s Mark Perana will have you carving up the swells in no time.
Underground Wonders in Charleston
Continuing south Charleston was once a bustling gold rush town. Today its treasures lie underground. With Underworld Adventures you can explore a vast limestone cave system where thousands of glowworms create a twinkling galaxy above you as you float down an underground river.
Prefer to stay above ground? A short walk at Mitchells Gully Gold Mine provides a glimpse into the hardships of early miners as they searched for gold in the hills.
Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
One of the Great Coast Road’s most famous stops Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks are a natural masterpiece. Formed over millions of years these layered limestone formations resemble a stack of pancakes while the ocean surges through blowholes sending towering sprays into the air. Visit at high tide for the most dramatic display.
Just minutes away the tranquil Pororari River flows through a stunning limestone gorge surrounded by lush native forest. Whether you take a short stroll or rent a paddleboard from Paparoa Paddle Co this peaceful spot is a hidden gem.
From Handmade Treasures to Natural Wonders
As the road straightens towards Greymouth stop in Barrytown a small artistic community nestled between the mountains and the sea. Here you can visit local studios or even forge your own knife in a hands on workshop just don’t forget to check baggage restrictions if you’re flying home.
For those intrigued by pounamu greenstone Barrytown’s beach is known for naturally polished pebbles. In Hokitika Bonz and Stonz offers workshops where you can carve your own jade keepsake.
Another must visit is Motukiekie Beach accessible only at low tide. With dramatic sea stacks towering cliffs and rock shelves teeming with bright orange starfish it’s a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.
Greymouth and Beyond
The journey along the Great Coast Road ends in Greymouth where you can take a tour at Monteith’s Brewery home of New Zealand’s original craft beer. Enjoy a meal at Sevenpenny a stylish café known for its great coffee and local fare. Walk along the town’s floodwall and discover the region’s history through informative panels. Visit Left Bank Art Gallery to admire contemporary New Zealand art.
From here the adventure continues. Head south to Hokitika explore historic Ross or venture into glacier country at Fox and Franz Josef.
Whether you explore the Great Coast Road in a day or linger for a few this journey is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular. Take your time stop often and let the wild beauty of the West Coast captivate you.
