Hokitika - Discovering New Zealand

Travelling to Hokitika

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Hokitika, a pretty good destination in New Zealand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Hokitika and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Hokitika, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through New Zealand, here's everything to know about Hokitika for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Hokitika

Hokitika is a small town located on the west coast of the South Island of New Zealand. It is known for its stunning natural surroundings, including beaches, rugged mountains, and wild rivers. The town's economy is heavily reliant on tourism, with many visitors coming to enjoy activities such as hiking, kayaking, and fishing. Hokitika is also famous for its unique arts and crafts, particularly its jade carvings, and hosts an annual Wildfoods Festival. The town has a population of around 3,000, and its climate is generally mild and wet.

What to visit in Hokitika

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions to check out in Hokitika, New Zealand: 1. Hokitika Gorge - a stunning turquoise river surrounded by lush native bush. It's a short and easy walk to the gorge, and there are several viewing platforms to take in the scenery.
2. Lake Kaniere - a tranquil lake surrounded by mountains and forest. There are plenty of walking and biking trails around the lake, and a popular spot for fishing and picnicking.
3. Hokitika Beach - a long, wild and rugged beach with black sand. It's a great place for a walk or to watch the sunset.
4. West Coast Treetop Walk - a unique and thrilling experience walking high above the forest floor on a network of suspended walkways and swing bridges. The views are incredible! 5. National Kiwi Centre - learn about New Zealand's national bird, the kiwi, at this hands-on attraction. You can see live kiwis in a specially designed nocturnal house, and learn about the centre's conservation efforts.
6. Hokitika Museum - a small but interesting museum showcasing the history of the Hokitika region. Displays include early Maori artefacts, gold mining equipment, and displays from the town's heyday in the early 1900s.
7. Jade factories - Hokitika is known for its jade or pounamu, which is found on the West Coast. There are several jade factories and galleries in the town where you can watch carvers at work and pick up a souvenir to take home.
Overall, Hokitika offers a variety of attractions that showcase the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the West Coast region of New Zealand.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in New Zealand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Hokitika.

When to go on holiday to Hokitika

The best time to visit Hokitika in New Zealand is during the months of December through February, which is summer in the southern hemisphere. During this time, the weather is warm and mild, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so be prepared for higher prices and crowds. If you prefer a quieter, more budget-friendly trip, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of September to November or March to May, when the weather is still pleasant and there are fewer tourists around. June to August is the winter season in New Zealand and Hokitika can be quite cold and rainy during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Hokitika

There are a few ways to get to Hokitika, New Zealand depending on your starting point. Here are some options: 1. By Air: Hokitika has a small airport that services some domestic flights. You can fly directly to Hokitika from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch. Alternatively, you can fly to Christchurch International Airport and then take a domestic flight to Hokitika.
2. By Car: Hokitika is located on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. If you are driving from Christchurch, the journey takes around 3.5 hours (via Arthur's Pass) or 4.5 hours (via the coast road). The drive from Queenstown takes around 4.5 hours, and from Nelson it takes around 3.5 hours.
3. By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate services to Hokitika from Christchurch, Nelson and Queenstown. The journey time varies depending on your starting point, but it typically takes around 3-6 hours.
4. By Train: The TranzAlpine train runs daily between Christchurch and Greymouth, with a stop in Hokitika. This is one of the world's most scenic train journeys, taking you through the Southern Alps and across mountain passes. The journey takes around 3 hours from Christchurch.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Hokitika!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Hokitika, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Hokitika

Hokitika is a small coastal town on the west side of the South Island of New Zealand, and it has a rich culinary culture with several local foods and ingredients. Here is a list of some typical foods of Hokitika with a short description for each of them: 1. Whitebait: These are small, transparent fish harvested from the West Coast rivers in spring and early autumn. They are usually served as fritters, delicately seasoned and quickly fried in butter.
2. Venison and Wild Game: The Hokitika region is known for its deer farming, and restaurants in town often serve venison steaks and other wild game.
3. Paua: A type of sea snail unique to New Zealand, paua, are eaten fresh, smoked, or dried, and can be used in a wide range of dishes like fritters, chowders, and stews.
4. West Coast Whitebait Pattie: A classic dish that is made with freshly caught whitebait mixed with eggs, flour, and seasonings and then cooked to a golden perfection.
5. Horopito Seasoning: This is a local spice made from the Horopito plant, native to New Zealand. It has a spicy and peppery flavor and is commonly used to season local dishes like lamb, fritters, and stews.
6. Kumara: A type of sweet potato, kumara is a staple food on the West Coast and is often used in soups, stews, and curries.
7. Wild herbs: The West Coast is rich in wild herbs like kawakawa, manuka, and harakeke that are used as seasonings and flavorings in dishes like roast meats, fish, and salads.
Overall, Hokitika is a food lover's paradise with plenty of local specialties that will tantalize your taste buds.
You can find general info about typical foods in New Zealand here.

Is Hokitika an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in New Zealand, Hokitika can be considered to be moderately expensive. However, the cost of travel largely depends on your travel style and preferences. Accommodation and food prices in Hokitika may be slightly higher than other destinations in the country, but there are still plenty of affordable options available. Additionally, many of the attractions in and around Hokitika, such as hiking and enjoying the beaches, are free or low-cost. Overall, while it may not be the most budget-friendly destination in New Zealand, Hokitika is still a relatively affordable option compared to some other popular tourist destinations around the world.

Where to find accomodation in Hokitika

The best areas to find accommodation while visiting Hokitika are: 1. The town center: This area has a range of accommodation options, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions.
2. Beachside: There is a beautiful beach in Hokitika and staying close to it can make it easy to enjoy the scenic beauty and participate in beach activities.
3. Lake Kaniere: Located only a short drive from Hokitika, staying near Lake Kaniere is a great option for those interested in outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
4. Arahura: Located on the outskirts of Hokitika, Arahura is a charming rural area that offers peace and seclusion, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the town.
You can check hotel prices at Hokitika here:
Booking.com

Is Hokitika a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Hokitika is generally considered a safe place for tourists in New Zealand. It is a small town with a low crime rate, and the locals are friendly and welcoming to visitors. However, as with any travel destination, it is always wise to exercise basic safety precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially if you are traveling alone or at night.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in New Zealand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Hokitika.

What type of travelers will enjoy Hokitika the most?

Hokitika is a beautiful destination that can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers, including couples, young people and families. Here are some of the main attractions and activities that each type of traveler may enjoy: - Couples: Hokitika is a charming seaside town that offers plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy scenic views. Couples may enjoy taking romantic walks on the beach, exploring the local arts and crafts scene, and trying out local cuisine and wine. They may also want to visit nearby attractions such as the Hokitika Gorge and Lake Kaniere.
- Young people: Hokitika is a popular destination among backpackers and young travelers looking for adventure and fun. The town offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and mountain biking. There are also several bars and cafes where young people can socialize and meet other travelers.
- Families: Hokitika is a great destination for families as it offers plenty of activities and attractions suitable for all ages. Families may enjoy visiting the West Coast Treetop Walk, which features a series of suspension bridges and tree platforms. They can also take a guided tour of the Hokitika Kiwi Centre, where they can learn about New Zealand's iconic kiwi birds. For a fun day out, families can visit the nearby Franz Josef Glacier and take a helicopter ride over the stunning landscape.
Overall, Hokitika is a destination that provides a variety of experiences and attractions that can be enjoyed by all types of travelers.

How to get around Hokitika

In Hokitika, you can travel around by car, bicycle, on foot, or by public transportation. There are several car rental companies available in Hokitika, such as Avis, Hertz, and Budget. If you prefer to ride a bicycle, you can rent one from Hokitika Cycles & Sportsworld or choose one of the many bike rentals available in the area. Hokitika is also a very walkable town with most attractions located within walking distance. For public transportation, there are buses and shuttles available to take you to different parts of the town and surrounding areas.

What to see around Hokitika

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Hokitika in New Zealand: 1. Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes - This is a stunning natural attraction located about 45 minutes' drive from Hokitika, where you can marvel at the unique limestone formations and watch the powerful ocean waves crash into the blowholes.
2. Lake Kaniere - A must-visit spot for nature lovers, this serene glacial lake is surrounded by lush forests and offers excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.
3. Hokitika Gorge - Located just half an hour's drive from Hokitika, this picturesque gorge boasts stunning turquoise waters and a wooden swing bridge that offers mesmerizing views of the surroundings.
4. Arthur's Pass National Park - For those who love a scenic drive, a trip to Arthur's Pass National Park would be perfect. It's located approximately 2 hours' drive from Hokitika and offers some of the best alpine scenery in New Zealand.
5. Franz Josef Glacier - Located just over an hour's drive from Hokitika, this massive glacier is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the South Island. You can take a guided hike to the top or admire it from a scenic helicopter ride.
I hope these ideas help you plan your day trip from Hokitika!
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