Point Elizabeth Walkway, Greymouth

For all those who like the idea of disappearing deep into Aotearoa wilderness, but don’t have the means, time or enough instant noodles to do it for days.

Where is it?

Point Elizabeth Walkway is a 15-minute/12.5km drive north of Greymouth.

Terrain

This is a level and well-maintained track suitable for adults as well as little ones with energy to burn.

Need to know

1hr 45min; 5.5km one way

Basic fitness required

Easy walking track

No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW

At just over 5.5km and taking roughly 1 hour 45 minutes one way, you’re not in the wilderness for long but while you're walking, it feels remote and intrepid with few others on the track. Following an old water race built by 19th century gold miners and weaving in and out of subtropical rainforest, there is a thick forest canopy overhead and, due to its proximity to the coast, a roar of pounding surf as the soundtrack. While it is graded as easy (it’s relatively flat and suitable for families with children) you’re vulnerable to nature’s wild elements, so be prepared. Rugged coastline and the decidedly rocky Point Elizabeth lookout add to the excitement, affording glorious views of the West Coast, while the birdlife, extensive in number, put on quite a show.

While you're here

PUNAKĀIKI PANCAKE ROCKS A series of rocks that resemble stacked pancakes, albeit ‘made’ 30 million years ago. Joined by erupting blowholes and a ferocious surge pool called the Devil's Cauldron.

Punakāiki Pancake Rocks © West Coast Tourism

PUNAKĀIKI CAVERN A short walk from Punakāiki village (and a five-minute walk from Pancake Rocks), an unassuming wooden stairway descends into a cavern with over 130m of safe, explorable passages.

PETREL COLONY TOURS Between Punakāiki and Barrytown, this private wildlife sanctuary is just a seven-minute drive from either town. Join a sunrise or sunset tour of the world’s only breeding grounds of the Westland petrel. Open April to mid-December.

BLACKBALL This surprising little town is a bit of an over-achiever. It has an extra interesting history (revealed in the quality museum), a cool historic hotel and deliciously its very own famous Blackball Salami Company with meat treats.

SHANTYTOWN is a faithful replica of an 1860s gold-mining town where you can explore historical buildings, pan for gold, dress in period costumes and ride the enchanting steam train.

BRUNNER MINE is one of Greymouth’s most historically significant sites. Located just outside of town, a 2km walk weaves its way around a brick factory, coke ovens and long-forgotten tunnel entrances.Go for a drive: the stretch of highway between Greymouth and Westport, known as The Great Coast Road, is rated one of the top 10 scenic drives in the world and will mesmerise you at every turn.

MONTEITH'S BREWERY is a Greymouth icon. Head here to enjoy a refreshing locallybrewed beer and take the excellentguided tour.

Looking for a place to stay? Book accommodation at aa.travel.co.nz