Discover the Scenic Great Coast Road
Great Coast Road, a section of State Highway 6 on the West Coast of the South Island, is a contender for the country's most stunning water-view drive. This route rivals other scenic drives like Queenstown to Glenorchy, Wānaka to Makarora, and Jacks Point to Kingston.
The road is known for its winding path and breathtaking coastal vistas, with Punakaiki as a notable midpoint. Even on rainy days, the drive offers a captivating experience with several viewpoints and access to remote beaches, making it a must-do in Te Tai Poutini.
Notable Stops Along the Way
In addition ot Punakaiki, there are many places to discover along the Coast Road. Consider stopping at the Fox River Caves Track entrance at Tiromoana. This track offers a half-day return walk and is an excellent way to explore the natural beauty of the area. Another recommended stop is Woodpecker Bay, where you can enjoy a classic West Coast beach walk. Check out the memorable group of rocks at the southern end of the bay, which is better accessed at low tide.
There are also several high viewpoints along the coast, all of which are worth stopping for photos. One of these spots has a memorial to the Strongman Mine disaster of 1967.
How to Get There
To begin your journey on Coast Road, head to Westport or Greymouth on the West Coast. From the Greymouth end, the Coast Road officially starts a short distance to the north at the beach hamlet of Rapahoe and continues all the way to Westport to the north. The route is approximately 100 km long and takes around 90 minutes to drive non-stop.
After exploring the route, you can continue your journey to Tauranga Bay with a walk to a seal colony around Cape Foulweather, south of Westport. North of Westport is the fascinating Denniston Plateau and another scenic drive to Karamea.
