Travel and Accommodation on New Zealand's West Coast

We've put together our 10 top tips for your travel and accommodation on the West Coast of New Zealand — hopefully you'll that find your planning is easier and your travels more comfortable.

1. Book ahead for your West Coast accommodation. With lots of visitors to New Zealand's West Coast, accommodation choices are plentiful. However, wherever possible, book ahead so you get your choice of hotel, motel or campground.
2. Plan in plenty of time for your road journey. It's not about travelling from one West Coast accommodation to the next at break-neck speed. Not only would you miss the views, but the roads are often winding and through hilly landscapes they require some careful driving.
3. Take plenty of rest stops. Non-drivers, don't forget that concentrating on the roads can be hard-going on your driver and he or she is supposed to be on holiday too!
4. Safe swimming. If you're stopping to swim at any of the local beaches, check for warning signs — many beaches are not recommended for safe swimming due to strong tides and undertows.
5. Fishing regulations. If you're stopping to fish, be sure you've checked out the legalities of fishing in rivers and seas in New Zealand. View the New Zealand Department of Conservation's West Coast fishing regulations.
6. Packing for all the seasons. The West Coast is beautiful all year round, but don't forget to pack for the appropriate season and yes, both sun creams and rain jackets are always handy
7. Bring insect repellent. They don't seem to bother the locals, but every visitor to New Zealand's West Coast soon knows about the pesky sand flies. Make sure you've stocked up on insect repellent - sand fly bites can be very itchy!
8. Leave your vehicle windows and doors closed. If you're on a road trip, don't leave your vehicle's windows or doors open or else you risk the insides of the vehicle being inundated with sand flies and mosquitoes.
9. Be aware of the parrots. Keep a close eye on your possessions and picnics. People aren't the problem, but alpine parrots (keas) are well known for their inquisitive nature, sharp claws and probing beaks and can easily pull out food from unattended bags.
10. Expect the unexpected. The West Coast has a reputation for being on the wilder side of the Southern Alps, so don't be surprised when hoo-hoo grubs turn up on the menu!

View more information on West Coast accommodation in Fox Glacier.

 

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