Full Day Tour of the Sights and Tastes of the West Coast
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Full Day Tour of the Sights and Tastes of the West Coast

Active
(20 reviews)
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour gives you the chance to relax and enjoy the sights and tastes along our route through the Grey and Buller districts, although a moderate fitness is required as you walk around firstly Punakaiki and then up to the seal colony. See the coastal Highway, among the top 10 highways in the world. Discover the delights the West Coast has to offer in scenery and less well known treats such as the Shortjaw brewery (Tuesday to Saturday) or Historic mining areas. Let your driver do all the work while you admire the views, sample beer and spirits or learn a bit about the natural environment and local history that makes the West Coast a unique and "must see" part of your visit.
Sundays in summer we may stop at the Fox River Market.

Available options

Full Day Tour of the Sights and Tastes of the West Coast

What's included

Your choice out of 2 venues for lunch.
Tastings at Brewery and Distillery

Detailed itinerary

1

8.30am. Our tour begins when we meet at the Greymouth Town Square, opposite the Clock Tower. From here we travel up the picturesque Coast Road, one of the top 10 Scenic highways in the world.

2

9.10am Along the Pancake Rocks walk you will see captivating flora and fauna, incredible rock formations, maybe even the blowholes in action. Keep an eye out for the endangered Hectors Dolphins swimming past.
Note : Some tricky rocky stairs are on this walk.

3

11am After continuing along the Coast Road, with a stop for photo opportunities, we arrive at Tauranga Bay. If the beauty of this secluded bay wasn't enough, a short walk, up an easy incline, takes us to a viewing platform above the seal colony. Watch the seals simply lounging on the rocks or playing in the water.

4

12 noon. Lunch in Westport (including in the tour price). We will dine at your choice of one out of two fabulous establishments in Westport. The West Coast Pie Company has taken the iconic New Zealand pie a step further, using only wild or local ingredients and the flavors are amazing. Or PR's Cafe will give you a slightly more traditional Cafe style lunch (caters for v/df/etc).

5

1pm Tuesday to Saturday means a tasting of the craft beers at Shortjaw Brewery. Be surprised at the unexpected flavour created by the brewer, as you taste and learn about the process of creating great beer.
*Sunday and Monday we have added attractions in Reefton.

6

1.45pm Take in the rugged beauty of the Buller Gorge, stop and take photos, see and learn about some surprising features of the Gorge and the development of the road by the the early settlers.
We may also have an opportunity to stop at the small cottage industry Rotokuhu Lavender

7

2.45pm. Tuesday to Saturday arrive in the charming little town of Reefton where you will enjoy a tasting of award winning spirits from the range of Gin, Whiskey and more. On all days you can wander the town as it sits by the Inangahua River, cradled between hills and mountains.
*Sunday and Monday cross the old swing foot bridge to explore the site of the first power station in New Zealand and visit the Reefton I-site with its surprising displays.

8

3.30pm We travel through the picturesque farmland of the Grey Valley on our way to The Brunner Mine site, Memorial and Walk which are set in a small, very pretty Gorge. Learn some of the mining history and see the evidence of historical mining set in the beautiful New Zealand forest.

9

5.15 A short drive brings us full circle back to Greymouth.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
13 reviews
5★
13
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 5.0
7 reviews
5★
7
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tastings are Strictly for 18 years old and above. Younger teenagers are welcome on the tour but must be supervised by a parent and are not permitted to have ANY alcohol.

Meeting point

The town square is just across from the Clocktower by the river wall.

About Greymouth

Greymouth is the largest town on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. Known as the gateway to the wild and scenic West Coast, it offers a mix of rugged landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventures. The town is famous for its pounamu (greenstone) and is a hub for the famous TranzAlpine train journey.

Top Attractions

TranzAlpine Train Journey

One of the world's most scenic train journeys, the TranzAlpine runs from Christchurch to Greymouth, offering breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and lush rainforests.

Scenic/Adventure 4.5 hours one way Moderate to Expensive (NZD 90-150 depending on the class)

Pounamu (Greenstone) Museum

This museum showcases the cultural significance and history of pounamu, a sacred greenstone to the Māori, and its role in New Zealand's history.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Budget (NZD 10-15)

Kawatiri River Trail

A scenic walking and cycling trail that follows the Kawatiri River, offering beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscapes.

Nature/Adventure 2-4 hours (depending on the section) Free

Shantytown Heritage Park

An open-air museum that recreates a 19th-century gold mining town, offering a glimpse into the region's gold mining history.

Historical/Entertainment 2-4 hours Moderate (NZD 20-25)

Point Elizabeth

A scenic beach and picnic area located on the outskirts of Greymouth, offering beautiful ocean views and a peaceful setting.

Nature/Relaxation 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hangi

A traditional Māori method of cooking food in an earth oven, resulting in tender and flavorful meat and vegetables.

Dinner Contains meat and vegetables, may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Whitebait Fritters

A local delicacy made from tiny whitebait fish mixed with egg and fried into a fritter.

Appetizer/Snack Contains fish and egg, may not be suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.

Lamb Rump

A popular dish featuring tender and flavorful lamb rump, often served with seasonal vegetables and a red wine reduction.

Dinner Contains meat, may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Hiking Helicopter tours Guided glacier walks Beach walks Picnicking Visiting hot pools Exploring historic sites Shopping for pounamu

Best Time to Visit

Summer (December to February)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and longer daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region's natural beauty.

15-22°C 59-72°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English, Māori
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time, NZST)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Greymouth is generally safe, but travelers should be aware of common safety precautions and weather-related hazards.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
  • • Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night.

Getting there

By air
  • Hokitika Airport • 30 km north of Greymouth
By train

Greymouth Railway Station

By bus

Greymouth Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are available but not very frequent. Taxis and rental cars are more convenient for getting around.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Blakely Cobden

Day trips

Hokitika
30 km north of Greymouth • Half day to full day

Hokitika is a charming town known for its pounamu (greenstone) carvings, historic sites, and beautiful beaches.

Arthur's Pass National Park
80 km east of Greymouth • Full day

Arthur's Pass National Park offers stunning alpine scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Franz Josef Glacier
150 km north of Greymouth • Full day to overnight

Franz Josef Glacier is a stunning glacier offering guided walks, helicopter tours, and breathtaking views.

Festivals

West Coast Wildlife Week • Annually in October Hokitika Wildfoods Festival • Annually in March

Pro tips

  • Book the TranzAlpine train journey in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Bring layered clothing and be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially if engaging in outdoor activities.
  • Consider purchasing a piece of pounamu (greenstone) as a unique and meaningful souvenir.
  • Explore the local food scene and try traditional dishes like hangi and whitebait fritters.
  • Take the time to visit nearby attractions like Hokitika, Arthur's Pass National Park, and Franz Josef Glacier for a more comprehensive West Coast experience.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-100
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 7
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook