The West Coast of New Zealand's South Island is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, featuring ancient glaciers, majestic mountain ranges, and lush rainforests. This region boasts five national parks and notable attractions such as New Zealand's highest peak, extensive cave systems, and the iconic Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. GreatSights West Coast offers daily sightseeing tours departing from Queenstown, with connections to the TranzAlpine railway to Christchurch, showcasing the best of the Southern Alps and the West Coast.
Popular tour options include a day trip from Queenstown to Fox Glacier, a full-day excursion to Franz Josef, a scenic journey from Fox Glacier to Wanaka, and a multilingual guided tour from Fox Glacier back to Queenstown. Travelers can also explore the area by taking the picturesque TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth, providing various transport and accommodation choices to suit different preferences and budgets. The West Coast appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as the West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail and the Hokitika Gorge Walk.
For a comprehensive experience of the region's rugged charm, embarking on the ultimate West Coast road trip is recommended, featuring highlights like the Ōpārara Arch, Honeycomb Hill Caves, and the famous Heaphy Track.