The West Coast

The most space, the least people

There is nowhere quite like the West Coast of the South Island – it really is a natural wonderland. Bound by Kahurangi National Park to the north and Mount Aspiring National Park to the south, the region lies in a narrow band between the magnificent Southern Alps and Tasman Sea.

Nearly two million hectares, or 87%, of the West Coast is protected conservation land. With just 32,000 “Coasters” spread out along the thin, 600km stretch of coastline set against a backdrop of sheer-faced mountains, it’s easy to understand why we intertwine with the land around us. We not only live amongst our natural environment, we also depend on it for our livelihoods. Our driver industries of mining, tourism and farming all rely on the land for success.

From spectacular scenery and outdoor opportunities to strong community spirit and an uncluttered, stress-free way of life - it simply is the best place to live and enjoy life.

The climate

Yes, it does rain here, but not as much as you might think. It just rains properly when it does. Other places in New Zealand are a lot wetter, they’re just better at hiding it! For example, in 2004 Hokitika got 1964 hours of sunshine and Greymouth 1980; both a good measure ahead of Auckland’s 1825 hours. Our winters consist of mild temperatures, rarely any frosts and often weeks in a row of near perfect sunshine. Summers can get so hot the only place to be is a lake or river. In the north, around Karamea, the climate borders on subtropical much of the year, evidenced by lush groves of nikau palms and thriving subtropical plantings.

The people

Possibly nowhere else in New Zealand are people shaped more by their environment than on the West Coast of the South Island. The landscape dominates almost every aspect of Coast life. There is no one quite like a Coaster. Perhaps it’s the closeness to nature, the tough work in the primary industries or the need for a small population to look after its own – but the Coast has shaped its own unique character. A rugged individual, someone who will give anything a try, who is hospitable, likes to flaunt authority and, above all, knows how to have a good time.

Regional facts

We may be rural but we are not backward! The West Coast region is known for:

• Extensive broadband coverage
• Benchmark education initiatives (E4E)
• Events like the Wild Foods Festival, Coast to Coast
• Crime rates well below the national average
• Numerous outdoor wilderness experiences

Snapshot of the West Coast

• We still have what other places are running out of:
• Clean air
• Forests
• Water
• Warmth
• Wide-open spaces

and the time to enjoy it!