Greymouth
Surrounded by national parks and native forests, Greymouth is the West Coast's main town, transport hub, and tourist activity centre.
History
 |
Known by the Maori
people as Mawhera, Greymouth has always been the main population centre
of the West Coast, even prior to European settlement. It was here on May
21, 1860 that the young Scottish explorer James MacKay negotiated the
purchase of over fourteen million acres from Poutini Ngai Tahu on behalf
of the British government. He paid a mere three hundred pounds.
|
| Within ten years, the purchased land was to yield over twelve million pounds worth of gold, and to this day gold panning and mining is still a popular and occasionally lucrative activity. Since the heady days of the 1860s, Greymouth and the West Coast have continued to be a Mecca for those seeking adventure and good fortune. |
 |
Getting There
 |
In 1860 it took James
Mackay four months to walk to Mawhera from Nelson - he had little choice.
Today, travel is considerably easier. Greymouth is the daily terminus
for the world-renowned Transalpine
scenic train from Christchurch. Atomic
Shuttles offers service to and from Nelson, Picton, Queenstown, and
Christchurch. The Coast to Coast Bus Co. and Alpine Coaches also travel
between Greymouth and Christchurch. The Intercity line also arrives and
departs Greymouth daily.
|
What to Do
|
When you arrive, there are plenty of activities to choose from. The area is a walker's paradise, with over fifty walks ranging from an hour's stroll to twelve-day expeditions. Many follow old gold miners' trails, and there are walks to suit all ability levels. The extensive river systems of the area provide for world class whitewater rafting and kayaking opportunities (Grades I through V), and also some of New Zealand's best fresh water fishing. |
 |
 |
Quad
biking through the rainforest is a unique and thrilling challenge,
as is the experience of blackwater rafting in the local Taniwha caves.
Other options include scenic flights,
trial flights/flying lessons, four
wheel drive tours deep into the rainforest,
dolphin watching, gold panning, and greenstone
hunting at the beach. Some great surf breaks along
the coast also, though you will need your own board and wettie.
|
With so much to do you will want to stay a few days. Between April and September, don't forget, you can get a fourth night free!!
|
"You always regret most, the things you didn't do." |
 |