Things To Do
in Hokitika
Hokitika is a charming coastal town located on the west coast of the South Island of New Zealand. Known for its wild and rugged beauty, Hokitika is surrounded by lush rainforests and stunning beaches. Visitors can explore the famous Hokitika Gorge, known for its vibrant turquoise waters, or browse local artisan shops for unique jade sculptures and pounamu jewelry.
The town also hosts the wild and wacky Hokitika Wildfoods Festival, which celebrates unique New Zealand culinary delights.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "Tēnā koe" - Thank you
- "Māori ora" - Be well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk along the stunning Hokitika Gorge, where you can admire the turquoise waters and lush greenery. Don't forget your camera for the breathtaking views!
Head back to town and visit the local jade factory to learn about the fascinating process of carving pounamu. You can purchase unique souvenirs to take home.
Enjoy a laid-back dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Savor fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Tasman Sea.
Kick off your day with a thrilling jet boat ride on the Hokitika River. The stunning scenery and thrilling speed will get your adrenaline pumping.
After lunch, visit the West Coast Treetop Walk, where you can wander through the treetops and take in panoramic views. It's an exhilarating way to connect with nature.
Relax at your accommodation and enjoy a quiet evening. Consider stargazing if the skies are clear – the region offers some spectacular night views.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery, including beaches, mountains, and rainforests.
- Rich Māori culture and history, providing a unique cultural experience.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and fishing.
- A laid-back, small-town atmosphere with friendly locals.
- Proximity to national parks like Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
- Limited job opportunities in some sectors due to its small size.
- Isolation from larger cities, leading to less access to amenities and services.
- Weather can be quite variable, with significant rainfall throughout the year.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to urban areas.
- Higher living costs relative to the availability of services and employment.
Best Activities in Hokitika
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy long, scenic walks along the stunning Hokitika Beach, where you can see the Tasman Sea and the picturesque sunsets.
Explore the beautiful Hokitika Gorge with its turquoise waters, swing bridge, and walking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Take a treetop walk through the lush rainforest canopy and enjoy panoramic views of the entire Hokitika region and its natural beauty.
Try kayaking on the Hokitika River, where you can enjoy the serene environment and possibly spot local wildlife.
Visit Pukekura Scenic Reserve for hiking trails that wind through native bush and lead to views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
Spend a day at Lake Mahinapua for birdwatching, picnicking, or swimming, with opportunities to spot various wildlife species.
Cycle a portion of the West Coast Wilderness Trail, which runs through stunning landscapes from Hokitika to the nearby towns.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hokitika with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hokitika
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its stunning sunsets and driftwood sculptures along the shore, Hokitika Beach offers a beautiful landscape for photography.
Known for its vibrant turquoise waters and lush surroundings, Hokitika Gorge is a fantastic location for capturing nature's beauty.
This elevated walkway through the forest gives a unique perspective of the treetops and surrounding scenery, perfect for unique photos.
An ideal spot to watch the sunset over the Tasman Sea, featuring expansive views and great opportunities for sunset photography.
The iconic Hokitika sign near the beach is a popular photo spot for tourists, offering a fun backdrop with spectacular views of the coast.
Just a short drive from Hokitika, Lake Kaniere is known for its picturesque scenery, tranquil waters, and beautiful reflections.
With its stunning blue waters and surrounding bush, the Arahura River is a perfect setting for nature photography and exploring.
A small island off the coast of Hokitika, offering fantastic views of the ocean and perfect for wildlife photography.
Food in Hokitika
Hokitika Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Hokitika specialty, these fritters consist of delicate whitebait mixed with egg, flour, and seasoning, then pan-fried to perfection. Best enjoyed at the Ocean View Restaurant or the Beachfront Hotel.
Must-Try!
Kumara features prominently in many traditional Maori dishes and can be savored in various forms, from roasted wedges to creamy kumara soup. Look out for kumara-inspired creations at The Fire Station and Kōwhai Cafe & Bar.
This dish showcases the high-quality, tender lamb raised in the region, often seasoned with local herbs and spices. Locals recommend trying this at Cassels & Sons Brewery or Stumpers Bar & Cafe.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market is held every Sunday and is a paradise for food lovers, featuring fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and gourmet treats. It's an ideal spot to sample seasonal delights and street food from various vendors.
Along this scenic trail, you'll find charming food carts offering everything from classic fish and chips to inventive fusion cuisines. A must-visit for those seeking an authentic street food experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Hokitika is known for its stunning natural landscapes. It is important to respect the environment by not littering and following local guidelines when visiting natural sites. This reflects the community's value for nature and sustainability.
New Zealanders appreciate politeness and a friendly demeanor. A simple 'hello' or 'kia ora' (a Māori greeting) can go a long way. Always say thank you and be considerate in conversations.
Hokitika has a rich Māori heritage. Show respect by learning about local Māori culture, including customs and language. Engaging with locals and participating in cultural activities can enhance your experience.
Safety
Tipping in Hokitika
Ensure a smooth experience
In Hokitika, New Zealand, tipping is generally not a common practice. Service workers typically receive a living wage, and tipping is not expected. However, if the service exceeds expectations, patrons may leave a small tip or round up the bill as a gesture of appreciation.
Payment in Hokitika can be made through various methods, including cash, credit and debit cards, and mobile payment options. Most businesses accept cards, but it's advisable to have some cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller shops and local markets. The New Zealand dollar (NZD) is the official currency used for all transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
From December to February, Hokitika experiences warm temperatures and long days, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Expect vibrant beach scenes, plenty of festivals, and access to nearby natural attractions like the Hokitika Gorge.
March to May sees cooler temperatures with stunning fall foliage. This is a great time for hiking, photography, and enjoying the changing colors in the landscape. Crowds are smaller, offering a more peaceful experience.
June to August brings colder weather and occasional snowfall in higher altitudes. Ideal for those who enjoy winter sports in the nearby mountains. It is also a quieter time to visit, allowing for more intimate experiences with the local culture and nature.
September to November marks a season of renewal with blooming flowers and milder weather. Great for wildlife spotting, particularly with migratory birds. Expect some rain, but the scenery is lush and vibrant, making it a wonderful time for hiking and exploring.
Hokitika at Night
Hiking in Hokitika
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic track leading through beautiful forest and along the river, offering moderate hiking and stunning views.
A short walk that leads to a lookout with breath-taking views of the turquoise river and surrounding mountains.
A coastal track that provides an opportunity to explore both the beach and bush landscapes, with chances to spot wildlife.
A picturesque walkway around Lake Kaniere, showcasing native flora and opportunities for birdwatching.
A delightful trail that takes you along the river, through native forest, suitable for walking and biking.
Aiports
How to reach Hokitika by plane.
The largest international airport in the South Island of New Zealand, located approximately 140 kilometers east of Hokitika.
An international airport located around 280 kilometers southeast of Hokitika, serving the Otago region.
An international airport located about 320 kilometers southeast of Hokitika, popular for access to resort town Queenstown.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Hokitika, predominantly of European descent, including diverse backgrounds.
The indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, making up a significant portion of the population.
A smaller demographic, including individuals with roots in East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
Includes various groups from the Pacific Islands, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Comprises individuals from Middle Eastern, Latin American, and African backgrounds, making up a small percentage of the population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a popular sport in Hokitika, with local clubs and teams participating in regional competitions.
Cricket enjoys a strong following in Hokitika, with local leagues and community involvement in the sport.
Netball is widely played among women and girls in Hokitika, with school teams and local clubs active in competitions.
Soccer is played at various levels in Hokitika, with local teams participating in regional leagues.
Basketball has gained popularity, with local schools and community teams competing in tournaments.
Given Hokitika's coastal location, surfing is popular among locals, especially during the summer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hokitika.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Hokitika caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes. Notable options include the vegan burgers at Cogans Creek, and the vegetarian platters at Beachfront Hotel.
Visitors with gluten intolerances will find numerous gluten-free options across Hokitika. From gluten-free pizzas at Tommy Knockers to the extensive gluten-free menu at The Fire Station, there are plenty of choices to indulge in.