Greymouth, or Māwhera - the Te Reo name for the local pā - is the largest
township on New Zealand’s wild West Coast. Bordered by the Grey River in the
heart of the Grey District, the area is steeped in history. Booming during the
Coast’s gold rush in the 1860s, thousands flocked to the dramatic, rugged,
pioneer, and then unforgiving landscape in the hope of getting lucky. It is
this fierce determination and rich heritage that is commemorated and loved by
locals and visitors alike. With plenty to learn, see, do, and explore -
including fishing, rafting, bush walks, and museums (we highly recommend
Pounamu Pathway and Shanty Town!) - this is a must do on many bucket lists. __

So why not join us as we make our way to this popular West Coast stop over.
Travelling north along iconic State Highway 6, there will be plenty of
panoramic views from every angle (including at Lake Ianthe and Hokitika) on
this 1 way tour. You will be driven in comfort by our modern,
comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the
trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour
guides, this journey is one you will never forget!

Highlights and inclusions:

• Small group size
• Carbon neutral 1 way tour to Greymouth via Franz Josef
• Picture perfect scenery of New Zealand Wild West Coast
• Hokitika - including the option to visit the Hokitika Gorge
• Bottled water and Kiwi snacks (*lunch is not included on this tour)
• WiFi and USB charging
• Commentary
• 100% Kiwi as experience

Itinerary:

Franz Josef - We start by leaving Franz Josef, or Kā Roimata o
Hinehukatere, and head north along State Highway 6 towards our first stop.

Lake Ianthe (5 minutes) - Surrounded by hills and native podocarp
forests with a large flax swamp at its southern end, the lake is an important
home for endangered wetland species such as the Great Crested Grebe. Situated
in a former glacial trough, the lake is surrounded by a moraine and flows into
the Wanganui River via Ianthe Creek. We make a brief stop here for photos
before continuing through to Hokitika.

Hokitika (30 min) - This ‘Cool Little Town’ is famous for its rugged
black sand and driftwood laden coastline. After a brief photo stop at the
beach to take in the surf and views of the Tasman Sea, you have the option to
again explore the local shops or join the group on a trip to the Hokitika
Gorge.

Hokitika Gorge (1 hour) - Perhaps one of the West Coast’s most iconic
and photographed spots, on a fine day, its striking turquoise waters frame a
distinct contrast from the mature native podocarp forest that borders it. With
various lookout points offering different angles of the enchanting river, it
is an incredibly popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers
alike. The track itself is easy and undulating.

Greymouth (1:30pm) - After a busy morning, we soon arrive in Greymouth.
Framed by chiseled cliff tops, wild beaches, the Grey River and the
picturesque Grey Valley, this charming destination is not only a beautiful
spot, but a key transit hub and community for the West Coast. It is here we
drop you off at the information centre, and wish you safe travels for your
next onwards adventure. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely
be something to brag about!

Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks.