Hokitika's

Kiwi Holiday Park

& Motels

Local Things to see & do Nearby

Hokitika is a cool little town and a “must-stay” destination on the West Coast. Imagine those fun-filled, relaxed holidays you used to have, then throw in better coffee, a wild beach, awesome sunsets, mountain views and great cafes and galleries.

Don’t rush! It’s common to hear “I wish we had stayed in Hokitika longer. There is so much to see and do.” Hokitika’s central West Coast location means it is also a great place to base yourself to see the West Coast’s most popular natural attractions with the Hokitika Gorge, Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks and the Franz Josef Glacier great day trips. So stay awhile to enjoy the slower pace of life, have a chat and soak in the view with us.

Our friendly staff are more than happy to help you plan and organise your West Coast Holiday. Here are some suggestions of top things to do in Hokitika and on the West Coast:

West Coast Wilderness Trail

~ Activities, Sights ~

Four days of untamed natural wilderness
You’ve probably heard some wild tales about the West Coast – of rugged shorelines, intrepid journeys, sordid stories, hidden treasures… But as the Coasters will be first to tell you, “You dunno the half of it…”

Now’s the time to discover the last of the wild places and spin a yarn or two of your own, with one of the country’s smoothest, most accessible and most popular cycle trails.

On your trusty bike you’ll wind your way through ancient rainforests, along glacial rivers, around moody lakes and across some downright cracking wetlands. You’ll cycle early bush tram lines and water races passing former goldmining towns and workings, historic bridges and much more. You can do it all at once – across four days – or just nab the odd day-trip. Either way, it’s a spectacular way to journey though alpine forests to the rugged Tasman Sea.

West Coast Tree Top Walk & Tower Zipline

~ Activities, Sights ~

If you find yourself wondering what there is to do in New Zealand, the South Island, or even the West Coast, our Treetop Walkway should be top of your list!

Come and enjoy a leisurely 45-minute to one hour stroll through the beautiful West Coast rainforest tree tops. One of the top things to do in Hokitika, only 15 minutes drive south of the town centre.

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.

A uniquely wild and wonderful destination of discovery. Recharge, refresh and enjoy great local foods in the comfort of the Mahinapua Café nestled quietly beside the tranquil Johnnies Creek.

Sunset Point

~ Sights ~

LOCATION : Hokitika Beach

EASY
Time: 5 minutes walk from town centre.
Access: By foot, along beach, beach track, or Quayside section of Heritage Walk. By road via Sunset Point Rd.
Features: Sunsets, sunrises & starry nights. Hokitika rivermouth & beach. Views of Aoraki Mount Cook & Tasman (Horo Kawau). Tambo ‘shipwreck’. Information panels. Walks, picnicing, beach fossicking, fishing, & whitebaiting.

Shantytown Heritage Park

~ Activities, Sights ~

We recommend you allow at least 90 minutes to experience our award-winning attractions. – Ride the Heritage Train – Pan for your own gold – Visit the Museum – Experience the sawmill – Discover Chinatown – Get an Old Time photo – Dress up for kids – Short rainforest walks – Explore the village – King Dick’s Cafe – Foundry Experience Current Operational Train: 1877 built L508 “Gertie” Avonside Engine Company, Bristol. Train Timetable: 10.45 am, 11.45 am, 1.15 pm, 2.15 pm and 3.15 pm Gates Open: 9am-4pm Cafe, Photos, & Gold Panning open from 10 am. Please note: Pets are not allowed within the main township. Registered blind low vision and service dogs are always welcome.

Pancake Rocks & Blowholes

~ Sights ~

See nature’s power in full force. There’s a rugged beauty about Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes where an unrelenting drama plays out as the mighty Tasman Sea crashes into these iconic limestone formations.

The West Coast’s most visited natural attraction is a fascinating sensory spectacle and an incredible contrast with the sublime palm-filled glades and tranquil trails of surrounding Paparoa National Park. Prepare to be blown away (by the scenery).

Rising from the sea at Dolomite Point, the Pancake Rocks are part of a heavily eroded limestone area where the sea bursts through underwater channels and escapes via vertical blowholes.

These rocks, dating back some 30 million years, formed as layers on the sea bed which eventually rose under seismic action. Since then water, wind and salt spray have been constantly eroding the softer layers leaving a ‘pancake’ stack of harder limestone.

The easy Pancake Rocks Track is a 20-minute loop but double (or triple) that to leave enough time to view the blowhole action. It’s most impressive at high tide so check tide times at the Department of Conservation visitor centre opposite.

Lake Kaniere

~ Sights, Activities ~

Lake Kaniere is one of the most beautiful lakes in New Zealand and offers opportunity for a number of water sports. There are also several picnic places, a camping area, and numerous short walks. -Boating with a boat ramp -Jumping off the jetty -Water skiing -Fishing for perch, salmon, rainbow and brown trout -Mountain biking -Walks -Birdwatching for bellbird, kereru and tui -Dorothy Falls -Tramping -Camping Walks: – Kaniere Water Race Walkway 1 hour+ – Canoe Cove Walk 15mins one way – Dorothy Fall 2 mins one way (lovely spot for a refreshing dip) – Dorothy Creek Beach Walk 5 mins one way – Kahikatea Forest Walk 10 min loop walk – Mount Tuhua Track 7 hours to peak (steep tramp)

Hokitika Town

~ Activities, Sights ~

Town Centre Points of Interest Loop

EASY – Buggies/Strollers ok

Time: 1-2 hours

Access: From i-Site or any point along the walk.

Features: A great way to see the town centre and learn about Hokitika’s history and culture. This self-guided walk features Take-a-Seat artseats, public art displays and historical monuments and buildings. Get a town map showing the whole walk and a Heritage Trail brochure which provides information about the historical points of interest. Both available from the Visitor i-Site.

Hokitika Gorge

~ Activities, Sights ~

A true photogenic gem — brilliant turquoise water fringed with stark white limestone cliffs and lush green rainforest — Hokitika Gorge is one of the West Coast’s most instantly recognisable scenes.

It’s also one of the easiest to access. An easy, well-formed forest trail leads to this visual feast representing nature’s most glorious colour palette.

Ice, water, rock and age-old natural forces helped create the visual beauty of the Hokitika Gorge.

Glaciers ground the fine rock sediment that adds the essential element for highlighting the super blue-green water and helped work its way through the white granite bedrock. A clear blue West Coast sky helps enhance those colours but any day is a beautiful day at Hokitika Gorge.

These same glacial waters also carry precious pounamu (New Zealand jade/greenstone) from the mountains down to the sea. It’s one of several river sources around Hokitika making this cool little town the pounamu capital of the world.

Everybody’s highlight destination, the Hokitika Gorge Walk offers the West Coast’s easiest, most scenically satisfying experience, accessible right through the seasons, rain and shine.

It’s an easy stroll following the trail through mature forest along the banks of the Hokitika River and to the sheer rocky gorge flowing with extraordinarily turquoise blue water. Other highlights include an impressive swing bridge across the river, several viewpoints with spectacular views, curving boardwalks and access down to a small beach.

The beautifully-formed walkway (2.4 km / 1 hr 30 in and out) is pushchair and child-friendly, and the track is accessible for wheelchairs with assistance.

Times and distances (one way):
Upper Gorge suspension bridge: 900 m, 30 min Lower Gorge viewing platform: 1.2 km, 45 mins

Hokitika Beach

~ Sights, Activities ~

Find the famous Hokitika driftwood sign and start with the beach. Take a walk along the waterfront or down on the sand to admire the incredible sculptures from the last Driftwood & Sand Sculpture Festival (every January) and, if you’re feeling inspired, have a go at building your own.

There’s lots of photographic inspiration here, too. On the beach, the ocean and mountains by day, sunsets and bonfires by night. And a glow worm dell to visit at night.

EASY
Time: Take as long as you like.
Access: Readily accessible from Beach St, via Weld Lane, Sunset Point Rd and several other access roads (see map).
Features: Wonderful wild beach, black sand and pebbles (including pounamu-jade), driftwood, mountain views, sunsets, sunrise, and starry nights. Walks, picnicking, fossicking for pebbles and driftwood, sandcastles, swimming (for the experienced only), surfing, and surfcasting. Keep your eyes open for the Little Blue Penguin but please respect their space!

Franz Josef Glacier

~ Sights, Activities ~

A guided glacier experience you will never forget!
We are proud to share with you the very best of New Zealand’s glaciers.

Immerse yourself on a journey of discovery, in one of the most pristine places on Earth. Our friendly and experienced guides will share their knowledge of the glacier region, leaving you with a whole new appreciation for Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere (Franz Josef Glacier).

Our tours are limited so be sure to book early!

West Coast Wilderness Trail

~ Activities, Sights ~

Four days of untamed natural wilderness
You’ve probably heard some wild tales about the West Coast – of rugged shorelines, intrepid journeys, sordid stories, hidden treasures… But as the Coasters will be first to tell you, “You dunno the half of it…”

Now’s the time to discover the last of the wild places and spin a yarn or two of your own, with one of the country’s smoothest, most accessible and most popular cycle trails.

On your trusty bike you’ll wind your way through ancient rainforests, along glacial rivers, around moody lakes and across some downright cracking wetlands. You’ll cycle early bush tram lines and water races passing former goldmining towns and workings, historic bridges and much more. You can do it all at once – across four days – or just nab the odd day-trip. Either way, it’s a spectacular way to journey though alpine forests to the rugged Tasman Sea.

West Coast Tree Top Walk & Tower Zipline

~ Activities, Sights ~

If you find yourself wondering what there is to do in New Zealand, the South Island, or even the West Coast, our Treetop Walkway should be top of your list!

Come and enjoy a leisurely 45-minute to one hour stroll through the beautiful West Coast rainforest tree tops. One of the top things to do in Hokitika, only 15 minutes drive south of the town centre.

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.

A uniquely wild and wonderful destination of discovery. Recharge, refresh and enjoy great local foods in the comfort of the Mahinapua Café nestled quietly beside the tranquil Johnnies Creek.

West Coast Scenic Waterays

~ Activities ~

Relax to the birdsong tranquillity as you take in the scenery; the mirror finished lake amid ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees with the snow-capped mountains in the distance. Enjoy freedom kayaking or a cruise aboard the Eco Adventurer. Capture the picturesque beauty of the Mahinapua waterways along the original route used by pioneers, gold diggers and early explorers. Experience majestic views of Mt.Cook and the Southern Alps and outstanding West Coast flora, fauna and native rain forests.

The National Kiwi Centre

~ Activities ~

The National Kiwi Centre is a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience, offering visitors an up-close encounter with New Zealand’s most iconic species! Explore our Kiwi bird exhibit, marvel at our longfin eels, and discover the wonders of our aquariums, including the fascinating Peter’s Elephantnose fish. Join us for feeding times daily at 10am, 12pm, and 3pm to see our eels and kiwi in action. With interactive experiences and a commitment to conservation, the National Kiwi Centre is the perfect destination for families, nature lovers, and curious minds alike. Visit us at 64 Tancred Street , Hokitika and connect with Aotearoa’s unique wildlife today!

Admission Prices:
Adult $36.00
Child $20.00 (5-16 years)
Family $95.00 (2 adults and up to 3 children 5-16 years)
Bookings not necessary
Children under 5 years are Free.

Group deals are available on request.

Shantytown Heritage Park

~ Activities, Sights ~

We recommend you allow at least 90 minutes to experience our award-winning attractions. – Ride the Heritage Train – Pan for your own gold – Visit the Museum – Experience the sawmill – Discover Chinatown – Get an Old Time photo – Dress up for kids – Short rainforest walks – Explore the village – King Dick’s Cafe – Foundry Experience Current Operational Train: 1877 built L508 “Gertie” Avonside Engine Company, Bristol. Train Timetable: 10.45 am, 11.45 am, 1.15 pm, 2.15 pm and 3.15 pm Gates Open: 9am-4pm Cafe, Photos, & Gold Panning open from 10 am. Please note: Pets are not allowed within the main township. Registered blind low vision and service dogs are always welcome.

Lake Kaniere

~ Sights, Activities ~

Lake Kaniere is one of the most beautiful lakes in New Zealand and offers opportunity for a number of water sports. There are also several picnic places, a camping area, and numerous short walks. -Boating with a boat ramp -Jumping off the jetty -Water skiing -Fishing for perch, salmon, rainbow and brown trout -Mountain biking -Walks -Birdwatching for bellbird, kereru and tui -Dorothy Falls -Tramping -Camping Walks: – Kaniere Water Race Walkway 1 hour+ – Canoe Cove Walk 15mins one way – Dorothy Fall 2 mins one way (lovely spot for a refreshing dip) – Dorothy Creek Beach Walk 5 mins one way – Kahikatea Forest Walk 10 min loop walk – Mount Tuhua Track 7 hours to peak (steep tramp)

Hokitika Town

~ Activities, Sights ~

Town Centre Points of Interest Loop

EASY – Buggies/Strollers ok

Time: 1-2 hours

Access: From i-Site or any point along the walk.

Features: A great way to see the town centre and learn about Hokitika’s history and culture. This self-guided walk features Take-a-Seat artseats, public art displays and historical monuments and buildings. Get a town map showing the whole walk and a Heritage Trail brochure which provides information about the historical points of interest. Both available from the Visitor i-Site.

Hokitika Gorge

~ Activities, Sights ~

A true photogenic gem — brilliant turquoise water fringed with stark white limestone cliffs and lush green rainforest — Hokitika Gorge is one of the West Coast’s most instantly recognisable scenes.

It’s also one of the easiest to access. An easy, well-formed forest trail leads to this visual feast representing nature’s most glorious colour palette.

Ice, water, rock and age-old natural forces helped create the visual beauty of the Hokitika Gorge.

Glaciers ground the fine rock sediment that adds the essential element for highlighting the super blue-green water and helped work its way through the white granite bedrock. A clear blue West Coast sky helps enhance those colours but any day is a beautiful day at Hokitika Gorge.

These same glacial waters also carry precious pounamu (New Zealand jade/greenstone) from the mountains down to the sea. It’s one of several river sources around Hokitika making this cool little town the pounamu capital of the world.

Everybody’s highlight destination, the Hokitika Gorge Walk offers the West Coast’s easiest, most scenically satisfying experience, accessible right through the seasons, rain and shine.

It’s an easy stroll following the trail through mature forest along the banks of the Hokitika River and to the sheer rocky gorge flowing with extraordinarily turquoise blue water. Other highlights include an impressive swing bridge across the river, several viewpoints with spectacular views, curving boardwalks and access down to a small beach.

The beautifully-formed walkway (2.4 km / 1 hr 30 in and out) is pushchair and child-friendly, and the track is accessible for wheelchairs with assistance.

Times and distances (one way):
Upper Gorge suspension bridge: 900 m, 30 min Lower Gorge viewing platform: 1.2 km, 45 mins

Hokitika Glass Studio

~ Activities ~

A family owned business that creates some of the worlds finest glassware. Every piece is made in the workshop which you can watch being made while you peruse the extensive range of glass items in the studio.

The Hokitika Sandwich Company

~ Eateries ~

This isn’t just any ordinary sandwich and coffee shop.
We believe the secret to a great sandwich is great ingredients.


Real Food Locally Sourced:
Our bread is baked from scratch every morning by a local baker.
Our meat is free range and local, crafted the old-fashioned way by an artisan butcher.
Our cheese is handmade by a variety of South Island cheesemakers.
Our condiments are fresh and made in-house.
Our salad is picked every morning by a local grower.
Our meats and cheeses are sliced fresh as we make your sandwich.


Enjoy!

Thatcher & Small

~ Eateries ~

Thatcher & Small is an enticing all day dining destination inspired by the spellbinding legacy of Hokitika’s popular, but controversial, entertainers: Charles Thatcher and Joe Small.

At Thatcher & Small, we invite you to embrace the allure of Hokitika’s past, while savouring the present, in a space that blends history with modern sophistication. You’ll discover vintage charm and contemporary elegance – an homage to Thatcher and Small’s mesmerising performances.

Our culinary offerings take centre stage in our cafe, bar and restaurant. Join us for breakfast, lunch or dinner, or stop in for a barista made coffee and a sweet treat. Freshly baked scones and muffins are available every morning alongside an array of cabinet food. We have dedicated breakfast, lunch and dinner menus catering to a range of tastes as well craft beer, local and international wines and some of the best cocktails the West Coast has to offer.

We’re open seven days a week, 7am til late.

Stumpers Bar & Cafe

~ Eateries ~

Stumpers is a great option for Hokitika dining with an onsite bar and cafe. Our homemade food options offer good value and are available all day from 7am (8am Sunday) until late. Enjoy anything from a light snack to a full delicious meal – there is always something suitable for the whole family.

Choose from the sun-drenched outdoor seating for those warm days or grab a couch fireside for a winter warm-up. If you’re looking to shake things up, live entertainment is offered in the bar periodically.

Open Daily:
7am (8am Sunday) to late
Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner

Ocean View Restaurant & Bar

~ Eateries ~

The newly refurbished Ocean View Restaurant has a sleek and contemporary design.

Located onsite at Beachfront Hotel, the restaurant offers magnificent ocean views and dining experience.

This magnificently positioned restaurant is elevated above the water so you can relax and enjoy a top-quality dining experience while watching the waves break on the beach.

– A La Carte.
– Set Menus.
– Platters.
– Espresso and drinks.


Share a beer with the locals in the casual atmosphere of our authentic West Coast bar.

Available for hire for private functions.

The Ocean View Restaurant is open for:
Breakfast 7.00am to 10.00am daily.
Lunch daily.
Dinner 3.00pm to 9.30pm daily (Summer).

Hokitika Townchip

~ Eateries ~

A kick ass array of fast food kai!
Order online and we’ll text you when your order is ready – easy as!

“The Townchip is the best! Great burgers, and funny fishreviews on the wallpaper. So good!”

Monday 12 – 7:30 PM
Tuesday CLOSED
Wednesday 12 – 7:30 PM
Thursday 12 – 7 :30PM
Friday 12 – 8 PM
Saturday 12 – 8 PM
Sunday 12 – 7:30 PM

Fat Pipi Pizza

~ Eateries ~

We have a rustic, relaxed dining atmosphere. There is ample seating inside our restaurant and picturesque alfresco dining outside. Across the road is the Hokitika beach with its iconic beachwood sign that is ideal for photo opportunities.

If you would prefer to order a takeaway pizza, there’s two comfy couches and magazines for your entertainment while you wait for your Fat Pipi Pizza to be served.

Our pizzas are unique and have something for everyone. From the popular Whitebait pizza to the Mexi, Chicken Lick’in, T-Rex, The Punk – the list goes on and on.

Our bases are made on site, as are many of our special secret recipe sauces including the yummy base pizza sauce. Ingredients are sourced locally where possible and freshly prepared.

Come and meet us and our friendly, dedicated staff. You can’t beat a great pizza with a chilled drink looking out at a beautiful Hokitika sunset – life at its best.