Westport is hardly your average, lazy tourist town. Westport packs a serious punch with high impact activities and attraction that leave you with a whirlwind of memories and thrills.
You can take it easy in Westport if you like. Visit local museums. Explore the history of Westport and the history of the coal and gold mining industries. Watch seals as they bask on a rock or walk the beaches of the Tasman sea. You can discover a relaxing vacation in Westport if you like.
Daredevils will have found their dream vacation in Westport. With white water rafting along the mighty Buller River, jet boating, and caving among the main local attractions, you'll find it hard to sit still in Westport. Sometimes, relaxing means blowing off a little steam. And you can surely do that in Westport.
Getting in and around Westport
Westport Airport
The Westport Airport has a brand new terminal and it is ready for business. This small airport has regular flights to and from Wellington courtesy of Air New Zealand. Flying is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to get to Westport. Of course, driving is an excellent option for getting to Westport.
Westport Transport
Westport is a small town and there are lots of fun and easy ways to get around. Cycling gets you to your destination more quickly, giving you more mobility in where you'd like to go. Walking is also a refreshing option for transportation. You'll enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Westport Car Hire
If you wish to travel beyond Westport to some of the popular nearby destination, Westport car hire is recommended. Care hire is available at the Westport airport.
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Westport accommodation
Westport hotels are known for having unique charm and personality. Each resort, hotel, or motel in Westport is different from the next. No matter what your budget is in Westport, you know you'll be staying in a quality privately owned hotel. Cosy five-star lodge resorts and charming backpacker' resorts bring the concept full circle, each with their own unique perks.
| Luxury |
- The Birds Ferry Lodge is rustic and elegant. You'll love the cosy furnishings and the wonderful service.
- The Punakaiki Resort has an elegant, modern aesthetic that is entirely unique and beautiful scenery to match the picture windows.
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| Mid-range |
- Charming Creek is a delightful, creative accommodation, drawing on the sights and sounds of nature for its inspiration.
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| Budget |
- The Buller Bridge Motel is located on the beautiful Buller River, the motel boasts quality and comfortable accommodation for travellers on a budget.
- The Westport Motor Hotel is a quality establishment with every amenity accounted for. You'll be met with friendly service and cheerful decor.
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| Backpackers |
- The TripInn Hostel has a lovely, charming exterior that's the product of years of renovations. The TripInn is one hostel that you'll never want to leave.
- Bazil's Hostel is charming and colourful. Guests feel an instant sense of community and it's a great place to get to know other travellers.
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Things to do in Westport
Known for its rich history of coal mining and gold mining, many of the activities in Westport focus on the exciting background of the city. But for those who tend to grow weary of museum hunting, there are plenty of thrills to be had in Westport. Whitewater rafting and caving are just a few pastimes bound to get your heart rate up.
Coaltown Museum. Explore the history of Westport at the Coaltown Museum that showcases the coal mining and gold mining history in the area. Numerous artefacts and displays complete the experience as well as a simulated coal mine that's complete with sound effects.
Westport Jet boating. Jet boating is a thrill-a-minute and those seeking some edge-of-your seat fun will love this activity. See the surrounding natural beauty and enjoy the high speed ride.
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Day trips in and around Westport
Cape Foulwind Seal Colony. Depending on the season, there can be as many as 100 seals at this local seal colony. You will love seeing the new born pups in November and December as much as the kids will.
Westport White water rafting. The Buller River is home to some of the best white rapids in the world and white water rafting is a very popular, high-thrills activity in Westport. Raft the 'Earthquake Rapids' of the mighty Buller River with a skilled guide for a day of thrilling fun.
Nile River Rainforest Train. In nearby Charleston, you can experience the exotic beauty of the Nile River Rainforest. Board a charming train that will take you safely and comfortably through the forest where you'll see colourful wildlife and beautiful foliage.
Glow Worm Cave Tour. Also in Charleston is one of the area's most famous attractions, the Glow Worm Cafe Tour. You'll explore the wonders of the underground in this spectacular activity that features spectacular glow worms and incredible rock formations.
Denniston. Historic Denniston is another great nearby township, just fifteen minutes away from the centre of Westport. Here you can further explore the local coal mining history. It's also ideal terrain for hiking and mountain biking.
Westport Caving. There are numerous caves in the area that are fun and save to explore on your own. The Oparara Basin, for example, you can hike along the river to explore several interesting must-see caves. Just remember to bring a torch.
Pancake Rocks. See the incredible artistic talents of the Tasman Seal, that's carved these spectacular if unusual rock formations. You can walk along the beach as well as kayak, or you can even go on horseback. Check in at the Punakaiki Visitor Centre for details.
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