Hokitika Gorge Walk

A great little leg stretcher for those driving around the South Island’s dramatic West Coast.

Where is it?

Hokitika Gorge Scenic Reserve, Whitcombe Valley Rd, 33km east of Hokitika.

Terrain

Boardwalks, bush tracks, well maintained.

Be prepared

Pack insect repellent for sandflies.

Need to know

No dogs

30min return; 650m each way

Basic fitness required

Easy tramping track

TRACK OVERVIEW

The walking track starts at the car park and, after the first few steps, you’ll find yourself in a cool and impressive podocarp forest .Very soon, you’ll pop out onto the viewing platform. When you look down the magnificent Hokitika Gorge, you’ll see how powerfully water carves its way through the land, capable of creating impressive gorges like this one. Up to this point, the track is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. From here, go another short distance along elegantly constructed board walks until you reach a swing bridge for a glimpse of the turquoise waters of the Hokitika River flowing through the gorge. For more views, cross the swing bridge to another platform providing more stunning vistas.

Hokitika Gorge © Adobe Stock

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