The West Coast of New Zealand boasts several fascinating museums that highlight the region's rich history and culture. The Coaltown Museum in Westport is a well-curated museum that delves into the stories of the Buller coalfields through intriguing artifacts and exhibits. Visitors can enjoy vintage footage of the Denniston Incline in action, and the museum is open daily for exploration.
Another notable museum is the Hokitika Museum, located in the historic Carnegie Building. This regional museum focuses on Westland's history, with exhibitions on pounamu (greenstone), Westland's involvement in the World Wars, and gold mining in the Hokitika area. The museum welcomes visitors daily until 2 pm.
For a unique experience, the Pop-Up History House Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of the West Coast. It features a diverse range of artifacts and exhibits that narrate the stories of early settlers and their pursuits of treasures such as pounamu (greenstone), gold, and coal. These museums provide a captivating glimpse into the history and culture of the West Coast region, making them essential stops for travelers exploring this distinctive part of New Zealand.