10 Nature & Wildlife Areas in West Coast Region That You Shouldn't Miss

Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip.

Choose from three walks of varying lengths, from the short, easy access Ōkārito Wetland Walk, to the longer Three Mile Pack Track. Ōkārito Wetland Walk - Time: 20 min return Ōkārito Trig Walk - Time: 1 hr 30 min return Three Mile Pack Track - Ōkārito Coastal Walk - Time: 3 hr 30 min return Stunning and diverse scenery dominates the small coastal settlement of Ōkārito - windswept coastline, tidal estuary, lagoon, sea cliffs, lush rainforest and unsurpassed views of the Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri o te Moana. Thousands of native birds (more than 76 different species) visit the Ōkārito Lagoon and many make their home in the vicinity, including the famous kōtuku/white heron and royal spoonbills. Getting there Drive 15 km north from Franz Josef Township on State Highway 6 to an Ōkārito Forks turnoff signposted on the left. Drive 13 km along a sealed road to Ōkārito.

After 10 minutes walk on a four wheel drive road, the track climbs gently then drops to a view of the scenic Tatare Gorge. The track then becomes steep and narrow for the short climb to the Tatare Tunnels. If you wish to explore the tunnels you will need a torch and a raincoat, and you may get wet feet – the water will be ankle deep. The track stops at the old wooden flume at the end of the first tunnel. Know before you go •Check the current track conditions and weather forecasts at the Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre before starting your trip. •Always take warm and waterproof clothing as the weather can change rapidly. •Carry drinking water, insect repellent and sun protection at all times.

Ship Creek offers two short loop walks, as well as access to the stunning coastline, a lookout tower with 360 degree views, picnic tables and toilet facilities. The Dune Lake Walk 30 min- winding through the sand dunes and dense coastal forest with amazing lookout points over the southern coastline and dune lake. Kahikatea Swamp Forest Walk 20 min- a boardwalk following Ship Creek and looping underneath the Swamp Kahikatea Trees. Check the current track conditions and weather forecasts at the Department of Conservation, Awarua/ Haast Visitor Centre before starting your trip. •Always take warm and waterproof clothing as the weather can change rapidly. •Carry drinking water, insect repellent and sun protection at all times. Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip.

Lonely Planet voted the West Coast Wildlife Centre in the heart of Franz Josef as one of the 12 must see things to visit in New Zealand. This is the largest kiwi hatching facility in the South Island and the "must see" indoor all weather attraction in Franz Josef – home to the official hatching facility for the world's 2 rarest kiwis – the Rowi and Haast Tokoeka. See live kiwi during the day inside our nocturnal house, discover the interactive glacier attraction and West Coast storytelling areas or go behind the scenes on the “Backstage Pass Tour” and see live kiwi chicks and meet the friendly kiwi ranger staff. Numbers are very limited on the 30 minute Backstage Pass Tour so booking are highly recommended to avoid disappointment. The best shopping in Franz Josef can be found here inside the all weather facility -and enjoy free Wi-Fi in the cafe to keep connected to family and friends. Enjoy a coffee or a snack in the cafe – or pick up a pack lunch for your day of adventure. Open from 8.30am daily – 365 days. Set aside 1-2 hours for your visit. All tickets purchased are valid for 24 hours so you can come back and see the kiwi as many times as you like within that period !.

An exhilarating treetop adventure among temperate rainforest giants. Experience life with the birds, high in the ancient Rimu and Kamahi tree canopy. Easy access for all to enjoy along a steel platform 20 metres high and over 450 metres long. Come and enjoy a leisurely 45 minute to one hour stroll through the beautiful West Coast rainforest tree tops. Relax and enjoy a coffee and lunch in our Cafe / Restaurant after your walk. Restaurant open Thursday & Friday nights until 8pm bookings essential.