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Things To Do In Westport – The Gateway To Coastal And Nature Adventures!

Westport – a stunning west coast destination in New Zealand, situated on the South Island. It’s one of the oldest European settlements – a heritage town famous for fishing and mining. One visit to this coastal destination will make you fall in love with it.

From beautiful beaches to surf, and numerous breathtaking nature walkways to visit, here are some of the best things to do in Westport – the ultimate nature & coastal destination.

Enjoy Spectacular Views At Cape Foulwind Walkway

Cape Foulwind Walkway

Location

Situated at the edge of the west coast coastal line, 15-minutes from the Westport town. The walk through the Cape Foulwind route is considered to be one of the most scenic walkways in all of South Island.

The perfect viewing platform for enchanting coastal hill sceneries, a lighthouse, the incredible sea colonies and more. The travel duration from one corner to the other is an hour.

Enjoy Seal Activities At Tauranga Bay

Seals basking at Tauranga Bay
Photo by falco on Pixabay

Location

Not so far off from the Cape Foulwind Walkway is the charming Tauranga Bay. This place is a real treasure. It’s where you find large colonies of adorable-looking Fur Seal colonies. Watch the captivating seal activity.

Nothing warms your heart like watching the seal pups play with their parents and just their general behaviour. This wholesome activity is worth adding to your list of things in Westport.

Walk Through The Mining History At Coaltown Museum

Exhibits at Coaltown Museum
Photo from the Coaltown Museum Facebook Page

Location

Situated in the town of Westport, the Coaltown Museum can be found facing Victoria’s Square. The museum may be small, but the tour will be entertaining. From well-displayed artefacts and photos to fascinating videos, transport yourself back in time, where Westport boomed as a mining town. Worth adding to your list of things to do in Westport.

Catch The Waves At The Lovely Carters Beach

Carters Beach
Photo by PDXMaria on Wikimedia Commons

Location

In the mood to have a beach day out? Maybe ride some waves? You will find the lovely Carters Beach located just a few minutes from the heart of Westport, next to the Westport Golf Club. It is considered to be one of the most favoured beaches on the South Island for beginner-level surfing.

There are plenty of things to enjoy around the coast once you take a break from the lovely blue waves.

Spice Up Your Holiday Plans With Westport I-SITE

Westport I - Site Visitor Information Centre
Photo from the Westport I-Site Facebook Page

Location

Take a break from nature and the coastal ventures. Visit the Westport I-Site Visitor Information Centre situated in the heart of the town, down Palmerston street in downtown Westport.

If you need the latest details on which beaches to visit, the best times to trek, where to go, what to do and the best times to do it – all of this will be offered by the knowledgeable staff at the Westport I-Site.

Day Trips To Take From Westport

Explore The Cycling Trail Of The Old Ghost Road

Old Ghost Road Trail
Photo by Schwede66 on Wikimedia Commons

Location (Northern Trailhead)

Another must-add to your list of things to do in Westport is trekking along the Old Ghost Road by bicycle or foot. It’s nestled between Westport and Karamea – just 40-minutes from town. This nature tour is going to be a one-of-a-kind nature tour. It can be rocky and rugged (come prepared).

Magnificent views – including the stunning Ghost Lake, and brilliant birdlife. A paradise worth exploring.

Explore The Incredible Pancake Rocks At Punakaiki

Pancake Rocks Overlooking Sea
Photo by Christian Michel on Wikimedia Commons

Location

This uniquely limestone rock formation is a popular tourist attraction amongst travellers who journey from Westport to Greymouth (even Christchurch). It’s approx. 1 hour from town. Enjoy a quick walk from the car park and witness the fascinating phenomena of the Tasman Sea forcing its water through the holes in the limestone, spraying the water up in the air similar to a whale’s blowhole. Exciting!

Discover Enchanting Wonders At Charming Creek Walkway

Suspension bridge at Charming Creek Walkway
Photo by Jase Blair on Wikimedia Commons

Location

This bewitching walking trail is another West coast favourite amongst travellers and hikers. Located nearly 1 hour from Westport, this track includes a railway line that goes through some incredible sceneries. Travel over swing bridges, past waterfalls, and go through tunnels.

It doesn’t matter if you are trekking on foot or bike. The experience is guaranteed to still be magical.

Take A Trip To The Oparara Basin, Karamea

Oparara Basin

Location

Karamea is where you are headed (nearly 2-hours from Westport) to see this natural marvel. Nestled in the famous Kahurangi National Park, The Oparara Basin is created with a mixture of limestone arches, and caves – all dating back approx. 3 million years.

Walk across ancient rainforests and rugged hill landscapes – one of the most beautiful places Karamea has to offer.

Explore New Zealand’s Great Walks Along The Heaphy Track

Heaphy Track

Location

Go visit another treasure found in Karamea. Witness the unique blended contrast between the West coast and lush forest landscape. This nearly 2-hour track is a real treat for nature lovers.

Cross a 148-meter suspension bridge and enjoy ever-stretching verdant landscape views. Here is your chance to explore and surround yourself with a real natural wonderland!

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