West Coast
Millions of years ago, when the tectonic plates forced the Southern Alps to rise from the Tasman Sea, two precious minerals were brought to the surface in abundance: pounamu (jade) and gold. Maori first discovered the dense glass-like jade, and prized it for carving mere (a hand-to-hand combat weapon), and ornamental sculptures.
When Europeans started to arrive here en masse in the 1860s, many came for one thing alone: gold.
Gold was discovered on the West Coast in the 1860s and the gold-town character and alpine scenery is spectacular. Most of the towns on the West Coast owe their beginnings at least in part to those feverish days of the New Zealand Gold Rush.
Majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes and a sparse population are further hallmarks of New Zealand’s West Coast. Highways to and within the West Coast region are sealed and easy to drive, while some minor roads are more suited to 4WD vehicles. Light plane services connect with scenic spots within the region.
Another way to travel to and from the coast is on one of the world’s great rail journeys aboard the TranzAlpine train, which travels between Greymouth and Christchurch.
Westport is situated where the mighty Buller River meets the sea, and was first a gold town, then a coal town. It still operates New Zealand’s only bituminous coal mine. In recent years, Westport has become a base for adventure activities; it’s also an excellent place to shop for arts and crafts.
Hokitika is a wonderful place to buy pounamu (jade). The Arahura River, which enters the sea eight kilometres north of Hokitika, is a traditional source of pounamu and still yields a large proportion of the Coast’s continuing supply.
Source: AA Travel
Photo: "West Coast Beach"
More information
See our guides section for information on skifields, wineries, art galleries and more.
