Ross Travel Guide
Discover the best attractions, hiking routes, food and drink scene, accommodations, and local culture in Ross, New Zealand. Plan your perfect itinerary with our week-long guide.
- Introduction to Ross
- List of Places to Visit in Ross
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Ross
- Best Things to Do in Ross: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Ross
- Food and Drink Scene of Ross
- Where to Stay in Ross: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Ross: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Ross
- Best Time to Visit Ross
- Do’s and Don’ts of Ross
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Ross: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Ross
- Where to Go Next from Ross: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Ross
Ross is a small town nestled in the West Coast region of South Island, New Zealand. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and bustling food scene, Ross is the perfect destination for travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. With a population of just over 300 people, Ross offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city living.
In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Ross, including the must-visit places, the best hiking/biking routes, activities and tours, accommodations, and local culture.
List of Places to Visit in Ross
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Goldfields Mining Centre: This museum showcases the town’s gold-mining history through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
- Ross Cemetery: A historic cemetery that dates back to the gold-mining era.
- Ross Heritage Trail: Take a self-guided walk through the town’s historic buildings and landmarks, including the old courthouse and post office.
- South Westland World Heritage Area: This beautiful national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to breathtaking landscapes and rare native species.
Natural Attractions of Ross: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Lake Ianthe: A picturesque lake surrounded by rugged mountain landscapes. Perfect for kayaking and fishing.
- Kahikatea Forest Walk: A short, easy walk through a lush forest filled with towering kahikatea trees.
- Roberts Point Track: This challenging hike is rewarded with stunning views of the Franz Josef glacier and the ocean.
- Lake Mahinapua: Another beautiful lake surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Ross
- Roberts Point Track: A challenging 14-kilometer hike that rewards with stunning views of Franz Josef glacier.
- Moonlight Pack Track: This moderate hike takes you through lush rainforests and past stunning waterfalls.
- West Coast Wilderness Trail: This 139-kilometer bike trail takes you through some of the region’s most stunning landscapes, including the Kumara-Inchbonnie section.
Best Things to Do in Ross: Activities and Tours
- Gold Panning: Experience the town’s gold-mining history firsthand with a guided gold-panning tour.
- Heli Hiking: Take a guided helicopter tour of the glaciers and mountains surrounding Ross, and then embark on a scenic hike through the wilderness.
- Jet Boating: Experience the thrill of high-speed jet boating on one of the region’s many rivers.
Week-Long Itinerary for Ross
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Explore Ross’s historic landmarks and museums |
| 2 | Take a scenic hike on the Moonlight Pack Track |
| 3 | Experience the thrill of jet boating |
| 4 | Embark on a heli-hiking tour through the wilderness |
| 5 | Take a relaxing kayaking trip on Lake Ianthe |
| 6 | Bike through the West Coast Wilderness Trail |
| 7 | Enjoy a leisurely day exploring Ross’s charming cafes and shops |
Food and Drink Scene of Ross
Must-Try Dishes
- Whitebait Fritters: A classic New Zealand dish made from native whitebait fish.
- Lamb Roast: New Zealand is famous for its high-quality lamb, and Ross’s local restaurants serve some of the best.
- West Coast Whitebait Patties: A local delicacy made from freshly caught whitebait mixed with herbs and spices.
Local Beverages
- Monteith’s Brewery: This local brewery produces a wide variety of high-quality craft beers, including their famous Monteith’s Original Ale.
- Central Otago Wines: The nearby Central Otago wine region is known for producing some of the best Pinot Noirs in the world.
Where to Stay in Ross: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Ross Motel: This family-run motel offers comfortable rooms and friendly service.
- Ross Beach Top 10 Holiday Park: Perfect for budget travelers, this holiday park offers affordable cabins and campsites right on the beach.
- Glasnevin Bed and Breakfast: This charming bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms and beautiful garden views.
What to Buy in Ross: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Greenstone Jewelry: Greenstone, or jade, is a traditional Maori stone that is mined in the nearby mountains.
- Local Honey: The region is home to some of the world’s best honey, including the famous Manuka honey.
- Handmade Arts and Crafts: Ross’s local artisans create beautiful handmade jewelry, pottery, and textiles.
Local Culture and Customs of Ross
The Maori people have a rich history in the region, and their influence can still be seen in the local culture today. Visitors should be respectful of Maori traditions and customs, such as removing shoes when entering a Maori meeting house.
Best Time to Visit Ross
The best time to visit Ross is during the summer months (December to February), when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town is beautiful year-round, and each season offers its own unique charm and activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Ross
Do:
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Take advantage of the town’s beautiful outdoor spaces.
- Try the local cuisine and craft beers.
Don’t:
- Litter or damage the environment.
- Be disrespectful to locals or their property.
Safety and Health
Safety in Ross
Crime in Ross is low, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety, such as locking doors and windows at night and not leaving valuables in their cars.
Health in Ross
Medical facilities are limited in Ross, so visitors should be sure to bring any necessary medications with them. The town does have a small medical center with basic services.
Getting to Ross: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Ross
- Franz Josef Aerodrome: 29 km away (small planes only)
- Hokitika Airport: 50 km away
Bus Stations Near Ross
- Intercity Bus Stop: Located in the nearby town of Hokitika.
Other Options
- Driving: Ross is located on State Highway 6, which runs the length of the South Island.
- Hitchhiking: Hitchhiking is a common way to get around in the region. Be sure to use caution and common sense when hitchhiking.
How to Get Around in Ross
The town is small enough to be explored on foot or by bike. Taxis and rental cars are also available for those who prefer to drive.
Where to Go Next from Ross: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Franz Josef Glacier: Just a short drive from Ross, this stunning glacier is one of the highlights of the South Island.
- Hokitika: This charming seaside town is just a short drive away and offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and activities.
- Greymouth: The largest town on the West Coast, Greymouth is home to a variety of museums, galleries, and restaurants.
Conclusion
Ross is a hidden gem on the West Coast of New Zealand, offering stunning natural beauty, rich history, and a bustling food scene. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this charming town has something for everyone. Plan your perfect trip with our comprehensive travel guide, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Ross.
