Hokitika is a jewel among New Zealand's many great tourist destinations. This quaint town on the west coast is known for its rich history in the jade market and gold mining industry. Not to mention the local scenery is some of the most beautiful in all of New Zealand.
Pass the days strolling through the historic town centre or expanding your knowledge of the gold mining days. Take a trip down the glorious Mahinapua Creek or an airplane tour of the breathtaking local glaciers. Whatever you do, you can count on having one of the most unique vacations of your life in Hokitika. A perfect destination for the adventurous and an ideal spot for families, Hokitika promises a memorable vacation.
Getting in and around Hokitika
Hokitika Airport
The Hokitika airport is the only domestic airport on the west coast with regular flights from Christchurch International Airport. Driving is a favourite way to get to Hokitika and getting there is getting easier thanks to recent improvements to local road systems. Visitors also enjoy taking in the scenery on a shuttle or coach ride from Christchurch or one of the other nearby towns.
Hokitika Transport
Getting around Hokitika to see the local attractions is made convenient by coaches, trains and other transport means that deliver you directly to your attraction.
Hokitika Car Hire
Hokitika car hire is another convenient way to get around the area. Cars for hire are available at the Hokitika airport from local and international car hire companies.
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Hokitika accommodation
Hokitika features a wide selection of outdoor activities making it an attractive destination for backpackers and outdoor adventurers. However, Hokitika accommodation does include a selection of luxurious hotels that are still moderately priced.
Luxury
Stations Inn is a luxurious boutique hotel offering a unique and relaxing experience.
The Fitzherbert Court Motel has everything you need and more. Enjoy the convenience of a full kitchen and many other amenities during your trip to Hokitika. The Beachfront Hotel Hokitika features sleek, elegant decor and breathtaking ocean views.
Kapitea Ridge is a luxurious, boutique hotel offering an entirely unique yet relaxing experience.
Mid-range
Teichelmanns Bed & Breakfast. Enjoy a cosy room along with a delicious breakfast.
The Beachfront Hotel Hokitika features sleek, elegant decor and breathtaking ocean views. Teichelmann's Bed and Breakfast Inn. Enjoy a delicious breakfast with your cosy room each morning.
The Fitzherbert Court Motel has everything you need and more. Enjoy the convenience of a full kitchen and many other amenities during your trip to Hokitika.
Budget
252 Beachside Motels & Holiday Park is comfortable and equipped, and only one street away from the beach.
Kiwi Holiday Park and Motels is close to the airport and has a range of accommodation options to suit your budget. The motel also has an animal farm, which is free to access for guests. The Airport Tudor Motel is an easy distance from the centre of town and includes amenities that every traveller appreciates.
The Black Sands Motor Lodge is comfortable and equipped, and only a few minutes from the beach.
Backpackers
Seaview Lodge and Backpackers is a unique accommodation option inside an old hospital. Birdsong Backpackers Hostel is a unique hostel with a theme inspired by the local bird life.
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Things to do in Hokitika
Hokitika is a favourite destination for travellers that love to visit a unique spot with gorgeous scenery and adventurous day tours. Hokitika has a great collection of family friendly activities and attractions for families with kids of all ages. They'll never get tired of the unique wildlife and sparkling Hokitika beaches.
Historic Walking Tour. The town of Hokitika is loaded with historic buildings and sites, including the Custom House and the wharf at Gibson Quay. A self-guided walking tour is a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon and see the sights.
The West Coast Historical Museum features artefacts, relics and video presentations outlining the history of the regional goldmining and jade industries.
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Day trips in and around Hokitika
The National Kiwi Centre. You can see the iconic Kiwi, the world's oldest living fossil (the Tuatara) and a range of freshwater sea animals.
Paddleboat Cruise. Just south of Hokitika, visitors can enjoy a paddle boat cruise along the historic routes of Mahinapua Creek. A wonderful, relaxing day trip.
Lake Mahinapua. For those who enjoy a day in the sun and the thrill of water sports, Lake Mahinapua is just a few miles away from Hokitika and an ideal spot for boating, swimming, fishing and other water activities.
White Heron Sanctuary Tours. Travellers who are up for a drive can explore the secrets of the white heron. Whataroa is just over an hour from Hokitika and home to New Zealand's only white heron breeding colony.
Fox Glacier is just a few hours' drive from Hokitika and one of the area's main attractions. Travellers can enjoy an aerial view of these low-lying glaciers that make for a unique day trip.
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