West Coast Hiking

Explore the West Coast on foot and get all the time in the world to drink in those epic New Zealand views. Short, long, easy, full-on - it's all here.

Every good West Coast itinerary includes a hike or two. Pull on your boots and set off for a tramp through the most beautiful scenery ever. From the South Alps to the palm-fringed coast, we've got you covered when it comes to planning a trip to the West Coast.

Fancy chilled-out hiking with amazing views? No worries. You'll find easy walking to suit all ages and abilities.

Up for a challenge? There are loads of awesome multi-day tramps where you can totally immerse yourself in the trails. Sleep in mountain huts and get in touch with your inner wild man/woman (more luxurious accommodation is available, though).

Here are a few of our top hikes:

Image: Tourism West Coast

Day Hikes

  • Take in the gorgeous sights of Lake Brunner with an easy 30-minute lakeside loop.
  • You don't need to set off on a daring mountain trek to view the mighty Franz Josef Glacier. The 5.4km Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere Walk gently takes you there and back again.
  • The Moonlight Pack Track takes you through native beech forests scattered with fascinating relics from the region's gold mining days.

Image: Stewart Nimmo for Tourism West Coast

Multi-Day Walks

  • One of our all-time favourite things to do in the West Coast is to hike the Heaphy Track through Kahurangi National Park to reach sweeping beaches.
  • The 85km Old Ghost Road takes in eerie ghost towns high in the mountains. It's a must-do West Coast thang.
  • Opening in 2019, the Paparoa Track is a memorial to the victims of the Pike River Mine disaster. It's got everything from alpine landscapes to nikau palm forests.

Image: Tourism West Coast

Family-Friendly Walks

  • Wondering what to do in the West Coast with the kids? You need short walks with interesting sights.
  • When all you want is a gentle walk with the whole fam, the Moira Gate Loop doesn't disappoint. Tramp through the rainforest to a magical-looking limestone arch.
  • Hokitika Gorge Walk is an exciting but easy stomp across rope bridges.

Created in partnership with Tourism West Coast