Hokitika
New Zealand · West Coast
Description
Hokitika is a former gold-mining town on New Zealand's South Island's West Coast and is regarded as one of the country's main centres for pounamu (greenstone). The town is known for its traditional jade workshops, its wild driftwood-strewn beach along the Tasman Sea, and the nearby Hokitika Gorge, whose vivid turquoise waters are fed by glacial meltwater. Hokitika's history is closely linked to the West Coast gold rush of the 1860s, while today its arts and crafts, spectacular natural scenery, and regional delicacies define its character. Combining rugged coastal landscapes, Māori heritage, and historic charm, Hokitika is one of the West Coast's most distinctive destinations.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – January
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Hokitika Gorge
- Hokitika Beach and Driftwood Sign
- Pounamu (Greenstone) carving workshops
- Glowworm Dell
- Hokitika Wildfoods Festival (March)
- West Coast Treetop Walk(Day trip)
- Lake Mahinapua(Day trip)
- Lake Kaniere(Day trip)
- Dorothy Falls(Day trip)
- Hokitika Museum
- Sunset Point
- Ross Goldfields(Day trip)
- Shantytown Heritage Park(Day trip)
- Arahura River
- Blue Spur and Croesus Track(Day trip)
Getting there
- Airports:
- HKK