WESTPORT ATTRACTIONS With its warm mild climate and three beautiful beaches just minutes from town Westport is the perfect beach holiday destination. Carters Beach a family friendly stretch of endless sand is ideal for camping swimming picnics sunsets and bonfires. It is also home to two surf schools for those looking to catch some waves.
A short drive south of Carters Beach the Cape Foulwind Walkway offers an easy coastal trail along a breezy promontory to New Zealand’s largest mainland kekeno fur seal colony. Visit during breeding season November to February for a fun spectacle as playful seal pups learn to navigate the rocky coastline.
For cycling and walking enthusiasts the Kawatiri Trail is a brand new 40 km track that winds its way from Westport to Charleston. Travelling along the coastline it offers a spectacular scenic route making a beautiful ride or walk.
Dive into Westport’s rich history at the Kawatiri Experience Centre and Pounamu Pathway where you can learn about the region's coal mining past and Maori heritage. For spectacular views head to the Denniston Plateau where you will find the notorious Denniston Incline and tales of the hard life endured by miners. You can also tour the Stockton Mine an operating site showcasing the area’s mining legacy.
Food lovers will not want to miss the Westport Whitebait Festival held each October celebrating the town’s iconic whitebait catches.
