Menu
Hokitika Gorge stream
Hokitika beach
Hokitika swingbridge

An old gold-rush town, Hokitika is one of the West Coast’s few settlements.

On a clear day there are views of Aoraki Mt. Cook from the blustery beach, and pieces of pounamu (jade) can sometimes be found there. The turquoise waters of the Hokitika Gorge, east of town, are a scenic setting for kayaking and short walks.

New Zealand’s wild west coast is linked by a single track through Greymouth, Kumara, Cowboy Paradise, Hokitika and Ross. The Hokitika to Ross section takes in wetlands, forests and old mills, before ending with views over Totara lagoon as you ride into Ross. The one-way trip takes about four hours.

Active New Zealand

Outdoor and active adventures on New Zealand's North & South Islands

New Zealand must be in contention for title of adventure travel capital of the world. The list of white-knuckle thrills you can seek out here knows no bounds. New Zealand has some of the world's best sky diving, bungee jumping, mountain biking and whitewater rafting, plus plenty of softer activities; hiking, kayaking and road biking...read more

11 days

Bay of Islands and South Island escape

Off-the-beaten path New Zealand
View itinerary
14 days

South Island Road Trip

Explore the National Parks of New Zealand's South Island
View itinerary

Why Horizon Guides?

Impartial guidebooks

Impartial travel guides

Our guides are written by the leading experts in their destinations. We never take payment for positive coverage so you can count on us for impartial travel advice.

Expert itineraries

Expert itineraries

Suggested itineraries and routes to help you scratch beneath the surface, avoid the tourist traps, and plan an authentic, responsible and enjoyable journey.

Specialist advice

Specialist advice

Get friendly, expert travel advice and custom itineraries from some of the world's best tour operators, with no spam, pressure or commitment to book.