Top 4 Recommended Tourist Spots in Hokitika, a Scenic Town on New Zealand’s South Island West Coast!

Hokitika is a charming small town located on the west coast of New Zealand’s South Island. It lies approximately 100 km in a straight line from Christchurch, the island’s central city. Regular flights operate between Hokitika Airport and Christchurch Airport, making access easy for travelers. Situated at the mouth of the Hokitika River, the town offers a beautiful beach where you can watch the sun set over the horizon — a breathtaking sight that captivates many visitors. And if you follow the river upstream, even more stunning natural attractions await. Now, let’s explore the top 4 must-visit tourist spots in Hokitika that you shouldn’t miss!

1. Sunset Point

The cape that juts out at the mouth of the Hokitika River is a breathtaking scenic spot where you can admire one of the most beautiful sunsets in New Zealand. Since there is nothing but the ocean beyond this point, you can fully enjoy the sight of the sun slowly sinking below the horizon.

A small shipwreck is placed on the cape, and you can sit and relax inside it. Surrounded by the stunning sunset, the sea, and the beach, it’s a perfectly romantic atmosphere. When evening comes, don’t miss a visit to Sunset Point—it’s the best place in Hokitika to watch the day fade into twilight.

2. The National Kiwi Centre

Here, it's not the kiwi fruit we’re talking about—but the kiwi bird! Native only to New Zealand, the kiwi is the country’s national bird. In fact, the kiwi fruit was named after this unique flightless bird.

Kiwis are round and fluffy, similar in appearance to the fruit, with long slender beaks and strong legs built for running. Once, there were around 10 million kiwis across New Zealand, but today, their population has sadly declined to only about 30,000.

One of the rare places where you can see this elusive and flightless bird up close is The National Kiwi Centre, located in Hokitika. Aside from the adorable kiwi bird, the center also features other unique wildlife found only in New Zealand, such as the New Zealand Longfin Eel and the Tuatara, a rare ancient reptile. It’s a perfect destination for families with kids and anyone curious about New Zealand’s fascinating native animals.

3. Beach Sign

At the front beach of Hokitika, there's a famous landmark made of driftwood that spells out “HOKITIKA.” No one knows exactly who created it, but it has become an iconic photo spot that shows you’ve truly visited Hokitika. When you visit Hokitika Beach, don’t miss the chance to take a memorable photo with the Beach Sign.

After snapping a photo, enjoy a relaxing stroll along the sandy beach—collecting driftwood or small pebbles as you walk towards the Sunset Point. To make the most of your Hokitika town experience, consider visiting the Kiwi Centre before heading to the beach.

4. Hokitika Gorge

Located about 25 kilometers upstream from the mouth of the Hokitika River, the Hokitika Gorge is one of New Zealand's hidden gems. This breathtaking natural attraction is renowned for its vivid turquoise-blue water, which can be seen in all its glory from the suspension bridge that spans the gorge. The color is so striking that it’s impossible to miss—it instantly captivates all who visit.

Crossing the bridge and continuing along the forested riverside trail, visitors are rewarded with another scenic viewpoint where the river and the suspension bridge can be seen together. This vantage point offers a truly magical view, and the mysterious hues of the water are sure to leave a lasting impression.

As public transportation does not reach the gorge, travelers must either join a local tour, arrange transportation through a travel agency, or take a taxi to get there.

◎ Summary

We introduced the best tourist attractions in Hokitika, located on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Hokitika offers a variety of scenic spots where you can experience the natural beauty that New Zealand is famous for. Since Hokitika Airport is conveniently located next to the town center, transportation access is relatively easy. When exploring the southern part of New Zealand, consider taking a detour to the west to enjoy its breathtaking natural wonders.

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Top 4 Recommended Tourist Spots in Hokitika, a Scenic Town on New Zealand’s South Island West Coast!