Nestled between the roaring Tasman Sea and the soaring peaks of the Southern Alps, New Zealand’s West Coast is a land of untamed beauty, legendary landscapes, and pure adventure. Stretching from the iconic limestone wonders of Punakaiki in the north to the deep rainforest valleys and glacier-fed rivers near Wānaka in the south, the region showcases wild coastline, ancient glaciers, and unforgettable scenic drives. This 4-day itinerary charts the perfect route beginning with Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks and winding south past misty forests, glowing trails, thundering waterfalls, and epic alpine passes to logically conclude your journey in the vibrant lakeside town of Wanaka. Whether you’re arriving from Christchurch or Wellington, follow this guide for the quintessential West Coast road trip, unveiling New Zealand’s most remarkable natural treasures and experiences along the way.
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Getting there
The West Coast adventure begins in Punakaiki, the dramatic gateway to one of New Zealand’s most spectacular regions. Perched on the edge of the Tasman Sea and renowned for its stunning Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, Punakaiki offers travelers an unforgettable start to their journey through rainforests, glaciers, wild coastline, and alpine lakes.
If you're starting your adventure in Wellington, begin your journey by taking the Interislander or Bluebridge ferry across Cook Strait to Picton. From Picton, drive down the scenic West Coast highway, passing through Nelson, Westport, and charming rural towns framed by mountains and wild beaches. This drive lets you explore the best of northern South Island before reaching Punakaiki in the afternoon—perfectly timed to experience the iconic Pancake Rocks before sunset. For a full North Island experience before crossing, follow our recommended route:
For travelers setting out from Christchurch, leave the city in the morning and travel west through the breathtaking Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass National Park. This route features dramatic mountain vistas, alpine viaducts, braided rivers, and native beech forest along State Highway 73. After reaching the coast, continue north to Punakaiki—arrival in the afternoon lets you settle in and savour the geological marvel of the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Track. Plan your Christchurch stopover for extra sightseeing before you hit the road:
Day 1: Afternoon - Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes
Your journey begins at Dolomite Point, home to the world-famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.
These spectacular layered limestone formations, stacked like pancakes by geological processes over 30 million years, create a surreal landscape perched above pounding Tasman Sea waves. The 20-minute return accessible loop track guides you past surge pools and dramatic cliffs, while interpretive signs reveal the area's natural history. For maximum impact, visit during high tide to witness the blowholes in action — seawater erupts skyward with a thunderous roar, delighting visitors of all ages. Keep an eye out for native seabirds and the lush coastal flora that thrive in the salt-laden air.
After soaking in the spectacular views at Punakaiki’s iconic Pancake Rocks, check into your accommodation in Punakaiki or nearby Greymouth. Enjoy a hearty dinner and unwind, ready to embrace the wild beauty and adventures waiting along New Zealand’s legendary West Coast.
Day 2 & 3: Glacier Country - Franz Josef & Fox Glacier
Day 2 in Glacier Country launches with a scenic drive from Punakaiki to Franz Josef, tracing dramatic rainforests and rushing rivers that reveal the true wildness of New Zealand’s West Coast. Explore the Franz Josef Valley Walk, where the trail leads you through ancient glacial riverbeds and lush native bush to Sentinel Rock, offering sweeping vistas of the glacier and the Southern Alps. After a picnic lunch, continue your adventure at Fox Glacier Lookout, where you’ll witness the spectacular Fox Glacier from a distance. As evening falls, settle into Fox Glacier township for dinner, and before darkness sets in, venture out on the enchanting Minnehaha Track—by night, the forest comes alive with the soft blue glow of hundreds of native glowworms.
Day 3 is reserved for Glacier Country’s truly iconic experience: the heli-hike. Check in early with your tour operator for a thrilling helicopter flight over towering icefields and alpine peaks. Land on the glacier and join expert guides to explore intricate crevasses, magical blue ice caves, and frozen pinnacles—a hands-on adventure few places in the world can offer. After warming up with lunch at a local café, spend your afternoon unwinding in the soothing Glacier Hot Pools, surrounded by rainforest. This immersive two-day journey delivers a perfect blend of nature and adventure; plan your stay in detail with our comprehensive Glacier Country 2-Day Itinerary below:
Day 4: Scenic Drive to Wānaka via Waterfalls & Lakes
Day 4 begins with a sense of excitement as you check out from Fox Glacier Township and hit the road toward Wānaka, crossing through the legendary Haast Pass. This spectacular drive traces the spine of the Southern Alps, winding beside glacier-fed rivers, dense rainforest, and towering peaks. Along the way, New Zealand’s wild West Coast reveals its greatest natural treasures — waterfalls plunging through lush canopies, emerald-blue pools, and tranquil lake vistas, making this one of the most scenic journeys on the South Island.
Note: As you journey along the West Coast’s spectacular but often winding highways, take your time to fully appreciate the ever-changing scenery—from towering cliffs and lush forests to sparkling lakes and ocean views. Be mindful when pulling over to enjoy scenic lookouts or roadside attractions; always use designated parking areas or safe, well-marked pull-outs, and ensure your car is completely off the roadway before stepping out. This approach not only keeps you and your passengers safe but also allows everyone to savor New Zealand’s wild beauty without rush or risk.
Roaring Billy Falls
Your first stop, Roaring Billy Falls, is a short walk through West Coast rainforest, where ferns and mosses flourish in the cool, misty air.
The 1km return trail (25-min) reveals a powerful waterfall thundering into the Haast River, its hypnotic roar echoing through the valley. Photographers and nature lovers are rewarded with a pristine, crowd-free view of ancient temperate forest and crystalline water—a true reminder of why Haast is a UNESCO World Heritage site!
Note: Remember to make two essential stops on your drive to Roaring Billy Falls: the Lake Paringa Picnic Area, where you’ll be treated to spectacular lake vistas surrounded by native forest, and the dramatic Knights Point Lookout, offering panoramic views of the West Coast’s wild coastline and rugged cliffs. With countless lookouts dotting this scenic stretch, these two stops are absolute must-sees for anyone seeking unforgettable landscapes and photo opportunities along New Zealand’s West Coast.
Thunder Creek Falls
Your next stop brings you to the dramatic Thunder Creek Falls, where a 28-metre column of water cascades straight into a shimmering river.
The short 5-min (one-way) walk to the viewing platform is fringed with beech trees and native bush, offering an immersive rainforest experience with every step. Pause for a moment, soak up the sight, and listen to the roar—one of the Southern Alps’ most iconic waterfalls.
Diana Falls
Next is Diana Falls, a classic road-side attraction along Haast Pass, located immediately beside State Highway 6.
There’s no official walking track required — just pull safely into the parking area next to the falls, step out for a closer look, and soak up the sound and spray of West Coast wilderness before continuing your alpine adventure.
Fantail Falls
Next stop is Fantail Falls, a charming 23-meter waterfall tucked within Mount Aspiring National Park.
Easily reached via a scenic 2-minute walk from the carpark, the flat, well-maintained track winds through lush native bush before opening onto the rocky bed of the Haast River, where you’ll enjoy a clear view of the delicate, fan-shaped cascade as Fantail Creek tumbles into crystal-clear water. This is one of the region’s most popular and accessible waterfalls, offering a peaceful place to stretch your legs, snap photos, or relax to the soothing sound of the falls—all just steps from your vehicle.
Blue Pools
Next stop is Blue Pools, one of the South Island's most striking natural wonders nestled in Mount Aspiring National Park.
The easy 1.5km (return) 1-hour scenic walk from the carpark leads you across swing bridges and through ancient beech forest to marvel at the impossibly clear turquoise waters, formed by the meeting of glacial rivers. Although the track was closed during our visit, Blue Pools is not to be missed if open, with many considering it the highlight of the Haast Pass drive! Be sure to check current track conditions and plan a visit if accessible during your journey.
Lake Wānaka Lookout
Just before The Neck, pull over at Lake Wānaka Lookout, where shimmering waters stretch toward jagged mountains and islands dot the horizon.
This panoramic vista is considered one of the South Island’s finest — ideal for a reflective break, or an epic landscape photo as you near your final destination.
Lake Hāwea Lookout
As you travel between The Neck and Albert Town, keep watch for the many Lake Hāwea lookouts that line this scenic stretch of highway.
Each lookout offers a unique vantage point—some from high above the vivid blue waters, others mere steps from the lakeshore—showcasing sweeping views of glacier-carved valleys, alpine peaks, and the narrow ridge where Lake Hāwea and Lake Wānaka are separated by just one kilometer. Stretch your legs, enjoy the tranquility, and be sure to pull over at these marked stops for unforgettable photos and a true sense of the region’s dramatic landscape. With lookout points scattered all along the road, this part of your journey is best savored by taking your time and enjoying each perspective.
Wānaka: The Perfect West Coast Finale
After enjoying the spectacular views of Lake Hāwea from the many lookout points along The Neck and approaching Albert Town, your West Coast journey reaches its logical conclusion in the lively lakeside town of Wānaka.
One of the region’s most iconic experiences awaits at That Wānaka Tree—a solitary willow standing gracefully in the shallows, set against a backdrop of towering mountains and vibrant sunsets.
Afterwards, take time to check into your hotel in Wānaka and relax for the night, reflecting on the incredible adventure across rainforest, glaciers, waterfalls, and lakes. With Queenstown just a short drive away, you’re perfectly positioned to continue your South Island exploration and discover even more wonders beyond the West Coast!
Traveling New Zealand’s West Coast from Punakaiki to Wānaka is an epic, sensory-rich road trip—where the ocean meets forest, glaciers carve valleys, and waterfalls tumble from mountain heights. Every stop delivers awe-inspiring scenery, authentic encounters, and a true taste of New Zealand’s adventurous spirit. Whether you linger beneath rainforest canopies, discover hidden glowworm colonies, climb ancient ice, or marvel at iconic lakeside sunsets, this itinerary promises memories for a lifetime. Pack your camera, sense of wonder, and get ready to experience the very best of New Zealand’s legendary West Coast.
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This itinerary is based on our personal experiences and recommendations. All information is provided for general guidance only and may change due to circumstances beyond our control. Travellers are encouraged to independently verify details and make choices according to their own preferences and safety considerations. We do not accept responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by anyone using our itineraries.