With 14 national parks in the region, the national parks of the West Coast are must see spots on a trip to the West Coast. Check out some of the best of national parks located in the West Coast region.
Kahurangi National Park
New Zealand’s second largest national park is filled with the diverse landscape including rainforest, rivers, and a rugged coastline landscape to explore. There are several great tracks and walks to explore from the Heaphy Track to the Wangapeka Track with huts along the way and campsites.
- Find walks and activities to explore in Kahurangi National Park!
Paparoa National Park
Famous for the Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki, Paparoa National Park is filled with limestone, caves and forest waiting to be uncovered. Some great activities to enjoy in Paparoa National Park include walking Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks (an easy 20 minute walk), canoeing in the Pororari River and caving in the unique cave systems of the West Coast.
- Find caving, canoeing, kayaking and walking activities to explore in Paparoa National Park!
Arthur’s Pass National Park
Explore the Southern Alps waterfalls, rivers, gorges and the kea that frequent the area. Don’t miss out seeing the Devils Punchbowl Waterfall, skiing at Temple Basin, or mountain biking in Poulter Valley.
- Find activities and adventures in Arthur’s National Park!
Westland Tai Poutini National Park
Dramatic contrasts of glaciers, mountains, beach and forest can all be found in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. The two stunning glaciers that span from mountain to rainforest, Fox and Franz Josef Glacier, can be seen by scenic flight and glacier walks. Other great spots to check out are Lake Matheson and Flat Hutt.
- Find activities, walks and attractions in Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Mt Aspiring National Park
At 3000 metres, Mt Aspiring is one of the tallest peaks in the South Island. Filled with valleys, glaciers, waterfalls and rainforest, the landscape found throughout Mt Aspiring National Park is breath-taking. The most popular tracks to see the beauty of the park include the Routeburn Track, Dart/Rees Track and Wilkin Valley Walk.
- Find walks and attractions in Mt Aspiring National Park!
