Download - Audley Travel

Crawling through an ice cave, Fox Glacier, Westland National ParkPunakaikiLocated in the heart of the Paparoa National Park,midway between Westport and Greymouth, isPunakaiki. This little township has grown uparound the natural attractions of the nearbyPancake Rocks – limestone rock formations whichhave been transformed by a layering andweathering process known as stylobedding intowhat look like stacks of thin pancakes. When thetide rises, seawater surges into caverns below therocks and forces its way through blowholes inimpressive geyser-like jets. You can take a shortloop walk from the main highway around therocks and main viewing areas for a bracing breathof fresh sea air and some incredible views.HokitikaWith its wide streets and historic buildings,Hokitika is certainly the west coast’s mostattractive small town. Smaller, quieter and moreinteresting than nearby Greymouth, it makes arewarding overnight stop. The self-guided HokitikaHeritage Trail incorporates 22 buildings and sights,of which the most impressive is perhaps theCarnegie Library, built in 1908 and now home tothe West Coast Museum. Hokitika is also thecountry’s major centre for locally-workedpounamu (greenstone), best purchased directlyfrom one of the many local artisans.Hokitika Heritage LodgeHokitika Heritage LodgeFrom its elevated position this traditional familybed and breakfast offers splendid views over thehistoric township of Hokitika to the Tasman Seabeyond. Your hosts Dianne and Chris provide afriendly New Zealand welcome and will offer totake you on a driving tour of Hokitika ending witha magical trip to see the local glow worms. Each ofthe three guest rooms offers beautiful views andprovides homely comforts making this a greatplace to rest on your west coast journey.Fox & Franz Josef GlaciersBuried deep within Westland National Park onthe rugged west coast, these two glaciers pourdown the mountains to the pounding surf of theTasman Sea. Nowhere else in the world at thislatitude do glaciers advance so close to the sea.The two small villages at their base serve asstarting points for exploration of these naturalwonders, with an array of excellent excursionson offer. Expert guides can take you on guidedice hikes, or you can take to the skies in ahelicopter or fixed wing aircraft for outstandingaerial views. If the weather is inclement, take a dipin the hot pools complex, or visit the West CoastWildlife Centre.Misty Peaks, Fox GlacierThere are few bed and breakfast propertieswhich can offer the views and location of MistyPeaks. Snow-capped Mounts Cook and Tasmansoar dramatically overhead, whilst Fox Glacier,mirror-like Lake Matheson and the windsweptbeaches of the coast are all within easy reach.The five contemporary guest bedrooms offercomfortable accommodation and your hostsextend a wonderfully warm welcome makingthis a delightfully inviting base for your glacierexplorations.48Pancake Rocks, Punakaiki