Cross the Southern Alps into rugged, untamed coastal territory
Explore the narrow strip of South Island land sandwiched between the mountains and the Tasman Sea that’s home to some of the country’s most beautiful places. Millions of years of natural history are right in front of you in wild limestone rock formations, caves and arches, rushing rivers and surf pounded coast, while the much more recent stories of the gold and coal rush can be found in the heritage settlements and in the resolute spirit of the coasters. Take in highlights from Reefton to Greymouth, Pancake Rocks to craft beer, gold panning to spa soaking. This is a coastal road trip to rival any other.
Get out and see a different side to the South Island, making the most of the wide-open spaces of the rugged and largely unexplored West Coast.
Go deeper into the history of the area with stories of gold miners, panning for gold, and hiking in the Denniston mining area.
Help support remote communities with visits (and of course tastings) at local bakeries, distilleries and breweries.
Reinvigorate the body with a heap of fresh coastal and mountain air, from hikes in the sweeping natural beauty of Karamea to soaking in scenic hot springs on the edge of the Maruia River.
Witness the stunning, millions of years old scenery at the dramatic Pancake Rocks, the Oparara Basin Arches, and spot fur seals of the Tauranga Bay Colony.
This trip is new to our range this year. And while we have thoroughly researched every detail of the logistics, new destinations and working with new partners can sometimes throw us some unexpected surprises. More often than not, it’ll be a great surprise. But every now and again there might be a hiccup. We like to think that’s what puts the ‘adventure’ in ‘adventure travel’.
Trip departures are unavailable.
There are currently no scheduled departures on our New Zealand West Coast Backroads Adventure trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.
1. A single supplement is available for all nights of this trip except nights 2 & 3 in Karamea.
2. This trip starts at 8am on day 1 in Christchurch.
3. This trip finishes at 7pm on day 7 in Christchurch.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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