Westport Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, transportation options, local culture, and more in Westport, New Zealand. Plan your journey now with our week-long itinerary, hiking/biking routes, nearby excursions, and safety tips.


Introduction to Westport

Located on the northern end of the West Coast, Westport is a small port town nestled between the Tasman Sea and the Kahurangi National Park. With its rugged coastline, rich history, and scenic beauty, Westport has plenty to offer to outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and culture seekers.

List of Places to Visit in Westport

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Westport has a rich mining and railway history. The town played a key role in the early development of gold, coal, and cement industries, which is evident in the many museums and historical places around Westport. The must-visit places are:

  • Coaltown Museum: This interactive museum gives visitors an insight into Westport’s coal mining history.
  • Denniston Historic Trail: Once a bustling coal-mining town, Denniston now provides visitors with a glimpse into the lives of the miners and their families.
  • Cape Foulwind Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse has been standing since 1876 and offers stunning views of the coastline.

Natural Attractions of Westport: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Westport is surrounded by stunning natural attractions, including rugged coastline, stunning beaches, and lush green forests. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, or just soaking up the scenery, there is something for everyone. The top natural attractions are:

  • Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes: This geologic wonder is one of the most visited places in New Zealand.
  • Oparara Basin: Located in Kahurangi National Park, this stunning natural attraction is home to ancient limestone formations and lush green forests.
  • Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure and Heritage Park: This park offers thrilling activities like ziplining, jet boating, and walking on the world’s longest swing bridge.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Westport

Westport offers several hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore the town’s stunning natural beauty. Some of the most popular routes are:

  • Old Ghost Road: This 85-km track is one of the best multiday hikes in New Zealand.
  • Cape Foulwind Walkway: This easy walkway offers stunning views of the ocean and the coastline.
  • Heaphy Track: This scenic track is one of the nine Great Walks in New Zealand and offers breathtaking views of the forests, mountains, and coastline.

Best Things to Do in Westport: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Westport offers plenty of outdoor and cultural activities for visitors to enjoy. Some of the best things to do are:

  • Whale Watching and Dolphin Encounter: Take a boat tour to see the resident seals, dolphins and whales which are often spotted off the coast of Westport.
  • Kayaking in the Buller River: Enjoy a scenic kayak tour along the Buller River and take in the stunning natural scenery.
  • Paddleboarding: Experience the estuaries at low tide, with a paddleboard tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Westport

For a fun-filled week in Westport, follow this itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrive and check out the local history at the Coaltown Museum.
  • Day 2: Hike the Cape Foulwind Walkway and enjoy the stunning coastal views.
  • Day 3: Take a bike tour along the Old Ghost Road.
  • Day 4: Explore the natural attractions at Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure and Heritage Park.
  • Day 5: Take a whale-watching tour or kayak down Buller river.
  • Day 6: Spend a day exploring the Oparara Basin in the Kahurangi National Park.
  • Day 7: Relax on the beach, take in the sights of Westport, and indulge in the local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Westport

Must-Try Dishes

Westport is known for its fresh seafood, local wine, and craft beer. Some of the must-try dishes are:

  • West Coast Whitebait: This local delicacy is a must-try for seafood lovers.
  • Wild Venison: This meat is commonly found in many restaurants in Westport and is considered a delicacy.
  • Hokitika Cheese: Made from cow’s milk, the Hokitika Cheese is a dairy-based treat that is a must-try.

Local Beverages

Westport has a thriving craft beer scene and is home to several breweries. Some of the must-try drinks are:

  • Monteith’s Brewing Company: This iconic Kiwi brewery offers a range of delicious beers and ciders.
  • Left Bank Art Gallery: Apart from the art gallery, it also offers a variety of beers and wines from the West Coast.

Where to Stay in Westport: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Westport has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Some of the popular options are:

  • The Westport Hotel: This historic hotel offers comfortable and affordable accommodation in the heart of Westport.
  • Bazils Hostel & Surf School: This hostel is located just a few minutes’ walk from the beach and offers affordable accommodation for backpackers.
  • Westport Motel: This motel offers budget-friendly accommodation with free Wi-Fi, parking, and a garden.

What to Buy in Westport: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Whether you are looking for souvenirs or local products, Westport has something for everyone. Check out these places to find the best local products:

  • The Quarry Arts Center: This arts center offers a range of unique, one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts.
  • Westport Souvenir & Pharmacy: This store offers a wide range of souvenirs and local products like merino wool products, jade carvings, and handcrafted pottery.

Local Culture and Customs of Westport

The Maori heritage is an important part of the West Coast culture. Respect the local culture and customs by taking part in the traditional Maori events, like the Powhiri or the Maori cultural tour.

Best Time to Visit Westport

The best time to visit Westport is from November to March, when the weather is warm, dry and sunny. The season offers a great opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Westport

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Always speak with a friendly and courteous manner, this is particularly appreciated in the West Coast.
  • Take advantage of the stunning natural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t disrespect the local culture by taking pictures in solemn or spiritual places.
  • Don’t forget to carry insect repellent especially if you plan on hiking.

Safety and Health

Safety in Westport

Westport is a safe place to visit with a low crime rate. However, visitors should still take precautions, like locking their cars and avoiding unlit areas at night.

Health in Westport

Westport has a small health center with basic facilities. For serious medical emergencies, the closest major hospital is located in Greymouth, a 1.5-hour drive from Westport.

Getting to Westport: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Westport

The closest international airport to Westport is Christchurch International Airport, which is a 5-hour drive away. The nearest domestic airport is located in Westport, with regular flights to Wellington, which is catered by Sounds Air.

Bus Stations Near Westport

InterCity and other rental bus companies have regular bus service from larger cities like Christchurch and Nelson. Most buses terminate in the Westport i-Site.

Other Options

The most popular way to get around Westport is to rent a car. Alternatively, taxis and shuttles are available for hire.

How to Get Around in Westport

Westport is a small town and is easy to explore on foot. However, renting a car or taking a taxi can be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Westport: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions to explore from Westport, like:

  • Paparoa National Park: This nearby national park is home to limestone cliffs, stunning walks, and caves.
  • Karamea: This small town is located on the north-west coast of the South Island of New Zealand. It has a range of unique and beautiful attractions on offer.
  • Franz Josef Glacier: This stunning glacier is located on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island about 5 hours drive from Westport.

Conclusion

Westport offers a unique combination of history, adventure, and natural beauty. From hiking and biking, to whale watching and exploring local culture, there’s something in Westport for everyone. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your journey and make the most out of your visit to Westport, New Zealand.

Westport Municipal Chambers Westport Municipal Chambers Cape Foulwind with Gibson's Beach Cape Foulwind with Gibson's Beach Tauranga Bay Seal Colony Tauranga Bay Seal Colony Coaltown Museum Coaltown Museum The Denniston Incline The Denniston Incline