Nestled deep in the heart of the Hokitika Gorge Scenic Reserve on New Zealand's wild West Coast, this is a location where nature has assembled a striking colour palette of glacial waters in a vivid, almost unreal shade of turquoise blue, framed by stark white granite cliffs and the deep, lush greens of ancient native rainforest - it is a truly beautiful gorge to visit.
What makes the Hokitika Gorge so visually remarkable is the science behind that extraordinary water colour. Glaciers grinding against rock over thousands of years have created an ultra-fine sediment known as glacial flour or rock flour. This powder is carried into the Hokitika River by glacial meltwater, and when sunlight hits the fine particles suspended in the water over the white granite bedrock, it reflects the blue and green wavelengths of light back at you with a brilliance that seems almost artificially vivid. It has to be seen to be believed.
This same glacial water also carries precious pounamu - New Zealand greenstone - from the mountains down to the sea, making Hokitika the pounamu capital of the world and adding a rich cultural dimension to an already extraordinary landscape.
This guide includes everything you need to know to make the most of your visit - how to get there, where to stay, what gear to pack, and a full description of the walking track and the best photography spots along the way.
What makes the Hokitika Gorge so visually remarkable is the science behind that extraordinary water colour. Glaciers grinding against rock over thousands of years have created an ultra-fine sediment known as glacial flour or rock flour. This powder is carried into the Hokitika River by glacial meltwater, and when sunlight hits the fine particles suspended in the water over the white granite bedrock, it reflects the blue and green wavelengths of light back at you with a brilliance that seems almost artificially vivid. It has to be seen to be believed.
This same glacial water also carries precious pounamu - New Zealand greenstone - from the mountains down to the sea, making Hokitika the pounamu capital of the world and adding a rich cultural dimension to an already extraordinary landscape.
This guide includes everything you need to know to make the most of your visit - how to get there, where to stay, what gear to pack, and a full description of the walking track and the best photography spots along the way.
SUMMARY INFORMATION
Location: Hokitika Gorge Scenic Reserve, 33km east of Hokitika, West Coast, South Island, New Zealand
Track Distance: 2.4km loop
Walking Time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours (allow longer for photography)
Difficulty: Easy
Entry Fee: Free
Facilities: Free car park, toilets at trailhead
Dogs: Not permitted
Public Transport: None - own vehicle or guided tour required
Mobile Reception: None at the gorge
Best Time of Day: Early morning or late afternoon
Best Season: Year-round; summer for best water colour, autumn for best light and fewer crowds
Key Photography Gear: Wide angle lens, tripod, circular polarising filter, ND filter
Do Not Forget: Insect repellent for sandflies, your own drinking water, rain jacket
Location: Hokitika Gorge Scenic Reserve, 33km east of Hokitika, West Coast, South Island, New Zealand
Track Distance: 2.4km loop
Walking Time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours (allow longer for photography)
Difficulty: Easy
Entry Fee: Free
Facilities: Free car park, toilets at trailhead
Dogs: Not permitted
Public Transport: None - own vehicle or guided tour required
Mobile Reception: None at the gorge
Best Time of Day: Early morning or late afternoon
Best Season: Year-round; summer for best water colour, autumn for best light and fewer crowds
Key Photography Gear: Wide angle lens, tripod, circular polarising filter, ND filter
Do Not Forget: Insect repellent for sandflies, your own drinking water, rain jacket
VIVID CONTRASTS Hokitika Gorge.
25mm, f/16, 1/50th sec, ISO 250
25mm, f/16, 1/50th sec, ISO 250
HOW TO GET THERE
Hokitika Gorge Scenic Reserve is located approximately 33 kilometres east of Hokitika township on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. The drive takes around 30 to 40 minutes, and the road is sealed the entire way - easily manageable in any vehicle including campervans.
From Hokitika town, head inland by turning onto Stafford Street, which transitions into Kaniere Road and then Kaniere-Kowhitirangi Road. Head through the farming community of Kokatahi, following the road as it makes a sharp left and then a sharp right. Turn left into Johnston Road, right into Nielson Road, and then left onto Whitcombe Valley Road, which will bring you directly to the gorge car park at the end of the road.
For those travelling along the West Coast, Hokitika sits on State Highway 6, roughly midway between Greymouth (approximately 40 minutes to the north) and Franz Josef Glacier (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to the south). It makes an ideal stop on any South Island road trip itinerary.
Hokitika Gorge Scenic Reserve is located approximately 33 kilometres east of Hokitika township on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. The drive takes around 30 to 40 minutes, and the road is sealed the entire way - easily manageable in any vehicle including campervans.
From Hokitika town, head inland by turning onto Stafford Street, which transitions into Kaniere Road and then Kaniere-Kowhitirangi Road. Head through the farming community of Kokatahi, following the road as it makes a sharp left and then a sharp right. Turn left into Johnston Road, right into Nielson Road, and then left onto Whitcombe Valley Road, which will bring you directly to the gorge car park at the end of the road.
For those travelling along the West Coast, Hokitika sits on State Highway 6, roughly midway between Greymouth (approximately 40 minutes to the north) and Franz Josef Glacier (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to the south). It makes an ideal stop on any South Island road trip itinerary.
Map Source:Topomap New Zealand 2026
ACCOMODATION Options
Hokitika is a small town with a warm, artsy character and a good range of accommodation to suit all budgets and travel styles. Staying in town puts you within easy driving distance of the gorge and gives you access to Hokitika's excellent cafes, restaurants, greenstone galleries, and the stunning west-facing beach - perfect for watching those legendary West Coast sunsets.
Luxury and Boutique:
Hokitika Fire Station Boutique Only QUALMARK 5 STAR in the CBD of Hokitika. This accommodation is a beautifully restored historic fire station in the heart of town, converted into five luxurious contemporary apartments. A standout choice for couples, families, or groups who want something unique and well-appointed, with a short drive to the gorge.
Rimu Lodge is perched above the Hokitika River with magnificent views out to the Southern Alps. Individually designed en-suite rooms, exceptional breakfasts, and a beautiful deck for evening drinks. A perfect base for photographers who appreciate a quiet, inspiring retreat.
Mid-Range and Motels:
Stopforths Motel is a consistently well-reviewed, family-run motel offering spacious, modern rooms with great facilities. Excellent value and known for its warm, personal service — a reliable and comfortable base.
Beachfront Hotel Located right on the edge of the Tasman Sea in the heart of town. Choose from Driftwood Rooms, Ocean View rooms with uninterrupted sea views, or splurge on the Penthouse. The on-site Oceanview Restaurant is excellent.
Stumpers Bar and Backpackers offers comfortable, modern accommodation with studio and premium rooms, plus an on-site restaurant and bar. A popular and relaxed option for solo travellers and groups.
Holiday Parks and Budget Stays:
Shining Star Beachfront Accommodation is located five minutes from town with direct beach access. Shining Star offers a wide range of options from motel units and cabins to powered and unpowered campervan sites. Pet-friendly, family-oriented, and well set up for West Coast adventures.
Self-Contained and Unique Stays:
Greenstone Retreat near Kumara is a boutique wellness retreat and camping experience nestled in organic gardens and rainforest, a short drive from Hokitika. A beautifully peaceful option for those who want to disconnect completely.
Holiday houses and self-contained baches are also available through various booking platforms if you prefer the privacy of your own space during your stay.
Photographer's tip: If you are planning an early morning visit to the gorge - staying in Hokitika town is ideal. The 30 to 40 minute drive is straightforward and you can be there for golden hour light before the crowds arrive.
Hokitika is a small town with a warm, artsy character and a good range of accommodation to suit all budgets and travel styles. Staying in town puts you within easy driving distance of the gorge and gives you access to Hokitika's excellent cafes, restaurants, greenstone galleries, and the stunning west-facing beach - perfect for watching those legendary West Coast sunsets.
Luxury and Boutique:
Hokitika Fire Station Boutique Only QUALMARK 5 STAR in the CBD of Hokitika. This accommodation is a beautifully restored historic fire station in the heart of town, converted into five luxurious contemporary apartments. A standout choice for couples, families, or groups who want something unique and well-appointed, with a short drive to the gorge.
Rimu Lodge is perched above the Hokitika River with magnificent views out to the Southern Alps. Individually designed en-suite rooms, exceptional breakfasts, and a beautiful deck for evening drinks. A perfect base for photographers who appreciate a quiet, inspiring retreat.
Mid-Range and Motels:
Stopforths Motel is a consistently well-reviewed, family-run motel offering spacious, modern rooms with great facilities. Excellent value and known for its warm, personal service — a reliable and comfortable base.
Beachfront Hotel Located right on the edge of the Tasman Sea in the heart of town. Choose from Driftwood Rooms, Ocean View rooms with uninterrupted sea views, or splurge on the Penthouse. The on-site Oceanview Restaurant is excellent.
Stumpers Bar and Backpackers offers comfortable, modern accommodation with studio and premium rooms, plus an on-site restaurant and bar. A popular and relaxed option for solo travellers and groups.
Holiday Parks and Budget Stays:
Shining Star Beachfront Accommodation is located five minutes from town with direct beach access. Shining Star offers a wide range of options from motel units and cabins to powered and unpowered campervan sites. Pet-friendly, family-oriented, and well set up for West Coast adventures.
Self-Contained and Unique Stays:
Greenstone Retreat near Kumara is a boutique wellness retreat and camping experience nestled in organic gardens and rainforest, a short drive from Hokitika. A beautifully peaceful option for those who want to disconnect completely.
Holiday houses and self-contained baches are also available through various booking platforms if you prefer the privacy of your own space during your stay.
Photographer's tip: If you are planning an early morning visit to the gorge - staying in Hokitika town is ideal. The 30 to 40 minute drive is straightforward and you can be there for golden hour light before the crowds arrive.
TURQUOISE INTENSITY Hokitika Gorge.
24mm, f/16, 1/50th sec, ISO 250
24mm, f/16, 1/50th sec, ISO 250
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Hokitika Gorge - Weather, Seasons and Photography
One of the most important things to understand about Hokitika Gorge is the relationship between rainfall and water colour. That iconic turquoise blue is at its most vivid when the river is flowing clear and glacial. After heavy or sustained rainfall, the gorge can run cloudy and grey, losing much of its visual magic. Keeping an eye on local weather forecasts in the days before your visit is well worthwhile.
That said, this is still a remarkable location to visit in almost any conditions. On an overcast day the gorge takes on a moodier, more dramatic character, and the soft diffused light can actually be excellent for photography — eliminating harsh shadows and reducing contrast in the deep gorge walls.
Summer (December to February) is peak visitor season on the West Coast. Days are longer, temperatures are milder at around 18 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the probability of clear blue skies to enhance that turquoise water is at its highest. Expect larger crowds, particularly on weekends and during school holidays. Arrive early or visit late afternoon to avoid the busiest periods.
Autumn (March to May) is arguably one of the best times to visit for photographers. Crowd numbers drop considerably, the light takes on a warmer and more golden quality, and the occasional mist drifting through the gorge creates an atmospheric, otherworldly mood. Temperatures remain comfortable and rainfall is moderate.
Winter (June to August) brings the most rainfall and the greatest chance of the river running murky, but it also brings a quieter, more intimate experience of the gorge. The surrounding forest looks lush and verdant, waterfalls are more active, and you may well have the entire track to yourself. Pack warm layers and quality waterproof gear.
Spring (September to November) sees the West Coast come alive again. Rainfall begins to ease, birdlife is active and vocal in the forest, and the gorge is beautifully fresh and green. A wonderful time to visit before the summer crowds return.
One of the most important things to understand about Hokitika Gorge is the relationship between rainfall and water colour. That iconic turquoise blue is at its most vivid when the river is flowing clear and glacial. After heavy or sustained rainfall, the gorge can run cloudy and grey, losing much of its visual magic. Keeping an eye on local weather forecasts in the days before your visit is well worthwhile.
That said, this is still a remarkable location to visit in almost any conditions. On an overcast day the gorge takes on a moodier, more dramatic character, and the soft diffused light can actually be excellent for photography — eliminating harsh shadows and reducing contrast in the deep gorge walls.
Summer (December to February) is peak visitor season on the West Coast. Days are longer, temperatures are milder at around 18 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the probability of clear blue skies to enhance that turquoise water is at its highest. Expect larger crowds, particularly on weekends and during school holidays. Arrive early or visit late afternoon to avoid the busiest periods.
Autumn (March to May) is arguably one of the best times to visit for photographers. Crowd numbers drop considerably, the light takes on a warmer and more golden quality, and the occasional mist drifting through the gorge creates an atmospheric, otherworldly mood. Temperatures remain comfortable and rainfall is moderate.
Winter (June to August) brings the most rainfall and the greatest chance of the river running murky, but it also brings a quieter, more intimate experience of the gorge. The surrounding forest looks lush and verdant, waterfalls are more active, and you may well have the entire track to yourself. Pack warm layers and quality waterproof gear.
Spring (September to November) sees the West Coast come alive again. Rainfall begins to ease, birdlife is active and vocal in the forest, and the gorge is beautifully fresh and green. A wonderful time to visit before the summer crowds return.
Best Photography Timing
For the best light and most compelling photographs, aim to visit in the morning or late afternoon.
Morning light from sunrise through to around 10am catches the gorge beautifully, casting warm golden tones across the white granite walls and lighting up the water from a low angle. This is also the quietest time of day and you are most likely to encounter morning mist drifting through the forest and over the river.
Late afternoon from around 3pm through to golden hour also produces wonderful warm directional light, particularly in summer when the sun remains high enough to reach into the gorge. Late afternoon visits tend to be less busy than the middle of the day.
Avoid the middle of the day on clear days - the high harsh sun creates strong shadows in the gorge and washes out the water colour in your images.
For the best light and most compelling photographs, aim to visit in the morning or late afternoon.
Morning light from sunrise through to around 10am catches the gorge beautifully, casting warm golden tones across the white granite walls and lighting up the water from a low angle. This is also the quietest time of day and you are most likely to encounter morning mist drifting through the forest and over the river.
Late afternoon from around 3pm through to golden hour also produces wonderful warm directional light, particularly in summer when the sun remains high enough to reach into the gorge. Late afternoon visits tend to be less busy than the middle of the day.
Avoid the middle of the day on clear days - the high harsh sun creates strong shadows in the gorge and washes out the water colour in your images.
WHAT CAMERA GEAR to Bring to Lake Matheson
And one more essential item that is not camera gear - insect repellent. Sandflies are prolific at the gorge. Spray up thoroughly before you start shooting, or you will spend more time swatting than shooting.
- A wide angle lens in the 14 to 35mm equivalent range is your most important tool at this location.
- A tripod is absolutely essential. The gorge is deep and shadowed, meaning that even on a bright day you will often need slower shutter speeds to achieve the right exposure.
- A circular polarising filter (CPL) is perhaps the single most impactful piece of kit you can bring to Hokitika Gorge. A CPL cuts through the surface glare on the water, dramatically deepening and saturating that incredible turquoise colour, and allowing you to see into the water more clearly.
- A neutral density filter (6-stop or 10-stop ND) allows you to achieve long exposures even in brighter conditions
- A zoom or telephoto lens in the 70 to 200mm equivalent range is useful for compressing the gorge walls, isolating interesting rock patterns and textures, and potentially capturing native birds in the surrounding forest. The upper suspension bridge in particular looks dramatic when photographed with some compression from a telephoto perspective.
And one more essential item that is not camera gear - insect repellent. Sandflies are prolific at the gorge. Spray up thoroughly before you start shooting, or you will spend more time swatting than shooting.
THE HOKITIKA GORGE WALKING TRACK
The Hokitika Gorge Walk is a very accessible and rewarding short walk. The track is a beautiful loop, beginning and ending at the main car park. The total loop distance is approximately 2.4 kilometres, and most visitors complete it in 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
The track is well-formed and well-maintained throughout, combining hard-packed gravel paths, solid boardwalks, and bridges. The early sections are suitable for wheelchairs with assistance, and the track is family-friendly and accessible for a wide range of fitness levels. Standard walking shoes are perfectly adequate for the entire route, though covered footwear is recommended if you plan to scramble down onto the rocks near the water.
The Hokitika Gorge Walk is a very accessible and rewarding short walk. The track is a beautiful loop, beginning and ending at the main car park. The total loop distance is approximately 2.4 kilometres, and most visitors complete it in 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
The track is well-formed and well-maintained throughout, combining hard-packed gravel paths, solid boardwalks, and bridges. The early sections are suitable for wheelchairs with assistance, and the track is family-friendly and accessible for a wide range of fitness levels. Standard walking shoes are perfectly adequate for the entire route, though covered footwear is recommended if you plan to scramble down onto the rocks near the water.
BEST PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATIONS at Hokitika Gorge:
Photography Location 1: The Lower Gorge Viewing Platform and First Swing Bridge
From the car park, the track winds through a short stretch of beautiful mature podocarp and hardwood forest before emerging onto the Lower Gorge Viewing Platform.
From the platform, the gorge opens up below you with brilliant turquoise water between sheer white granite walls, the native forest pressing in from both sides, and on clear days the foothills of the Southern Alps visible in the distance. This section is accessible even for wheelchairs with assistance.
A short walk down from the platform leads to the first swing bridge. Crossing it gives you some of the best mid-gorge compositions on the track, with the river visible both upstream and downstream from the bridge deck.
Photography tips: Use your wide angle lens to capture the full drama of the gorge from the viewing platform. In the early morning look for mist rising from the water to add atmosphere and depth. Your CPL filter will make a significant difference to the vibrancy of the water colour.
From the car park, the track winds through a short stretch of beautiful mature podocarp and hardwood forest before emerging onto the Lower Gorge Viewing Platform.
From the platform, the gorge opens up below you with brilliant turquoise water between sheer white granite walls, the native forest pressing in from both sides, and on clear days the foothills of the Southern Alps visible in the distance. This section is accessible even for wheelchairs with assistance.
A short walk down from the platform leads to the first swing bridge. Crossing it gives you some of the best mid-gorge compositions on the track, with the river visible both upstream and downstream from the bridge deck.
Photography tips: Use your wide angle lens to capture the full drama of the gorge from the viewing platform. In the early morning look for mist rising from the water to add atmosphere and depth. Your CPL filter will make a significant difference to the vibrancy of the water colour.
HOKITIKA GORGE SWINGBRIDGE.
24mm, f/14, 1/60th sec, ISO 400
24mm, f/14, 1/60th sec, ISO 400
Photography Location 2: The Rocks at the Water's Edge
From the viewing platform, a track leads down to the rocks at the river's edge - and this is arguably the single best photography position in the entire gorge. Getting down to water level transforms your perspective completely. The turquoise water fills the frame, the granite walls rise dramatically on either side, and the true scale and intimacy of the gorge becomes apparent.
From the rocks you can compose intimate shots of the water flowing over pale granite bedrock, wide-angle images looking up through the gorge towards the mountains, or long exposure shots with the water rendered as soft flowing silk against the hard stone.
Be aware that this is the prime territory for sandflies — spray up well before you head down here. Exercise caution on the rocks as they can be uneven and slippery, and the river is swift, cold, and deep. Stay well back from the water's edge and never approach the drop-offs.
From the viewing platform, a track leads down to the rocks at the river's edge - and this is arguably the single best photography position in the entire gorge. Getting down to water level transforms your perspective completely. The turquoise water fills the frame, the granite walls rise dramatically on either side, and the true scale and intimacy of the gorge becomes apparent.
From the rocks you can compose intimate shots of the water flowing over pale granite bedrock, wide-angle images looking up through the gorge towards the mountains, or long exposure shots with the water rendered as soft flowing silk against the hard stone.
Be aware that this is the prime territory for sandflies — spray up well before you head down here. Exercise caution on the rocks as they can be uneven and slippery, and the river is swift, cold, and deep. Stay well back from the water's edge and never approach the drop-offs.
GORGE SERENITY
45mm, f/11, 1/30th sec, ISO 100
45mm, f/11, 1/30th sec, ISO 100
Photography Location 3: Elf Creek Bridge
Continuing further into the gorge, the track winds through mature native forest with beautiful glimpses of the river through the trees. After approximately five minutes of easy walking you will cross a small bridge over Elf Creek — a lovely and often overlooked moment on the track where the water has sculpted intricate patterns into the granite bedrock beneath the bridge.
This is a wonderful spot for a slower, more intimate style of photography — moss-covered rocks, sculpted stone, clear water in the creek bed, and the surrounding forest casting a cool green light over the scene. It is quieter and less visited than the main lookout, which often means you will have it entirely to yourself.
Continuing further into the gorge, the track winds through mature native forest with beautiful glimpses of the river through the trees. After approximately five minutes of easy walking you will cross a small bridge over Elf Creek — a lovely and often overlooked moment on the track where the water has sculpted intricate patterns into the granite bedrock beneath the bridge.
This is a wonderful spot for a slower, more intimate style of photography — moss-covered rocks, sculpted stone, clear water in the creek bed, and the surrounding forest casting a cool green light over the scene. It is quieter and less visited than the main lookout, which often means you will have it entirely to yourself.
HOKITIKA GORGE TRACK.
70mm, f/8, 1/40th sec, ISO 320
70mm, f/8, 1/40th sec, ISO 320
Photography Location 4: The Upper Suspension Bridge
This is the standout structure of the entire walk and one of the most dramatic photography subjects on the West Coast. The upper suspension bridge spans 90 metres across the main channel of the Hokitika Gorge, crossing over the main river.
From the bridge, the views up and down the gorge are exceptional. You are suspended above the turquoise water with the forested foothills of the Southern Alps framing the background.
Please note: Always check the Department of Conservation website at doc.govt.nz for current track and bridge status before visiting, as bridges along this track have been subject to closures for maintenance. Even if the upper bridge is temporarily closed, the lower section of the track and main viewpoints are still fully accessible and absolutely worth the visit.
Photography tips: The bridge itself makes an excellent subject when photographed from the riverbank below. Use a telephoto lens to compress the perspective and make the bridge appear to hover dramatically above the gorge. If you are on the bridge, try shooting straight down through the mesh at the turquoise water far below. Early morning on a clear day is the best time for this shot, when low-angled light catches the bridge structure and warms the gorge walls.
This is the standout structure of the entire walk and one of the most dramatic photography subjects on the West Coast. The upper suspension bridge spans 90 metres across the main channel of the Hokitika Gorge, crossing over the main river.
From the bridge, the views up and down the gorge are exceptional. You are suspended above the turquoise water with the forested foothills of the Southern Alps framing the background.
Please note: Always check the Department of Conservation website at doc.govt.nz for current track and bridge status before visiting, as bridges along this track have been subject to closures for maintenance. Even if the upper bridge is temporarily closed, the lower section of the track and main viewpoints are still fully accessible and absolutely worth the visit.
Photography tips: The bridge itself makes an excellent subject when photographed from the riverbank below. Use a telephoto lens to compress the perspective and make the bridge appear to hover dramatically above the gorge. If you are on the bridge, try shooting straight down through the mesh at the turquoise water far below. Early morning on a clear day is the best time for this shot, when low-angled light catches the bridge structure and warms the gorge walls.
HOKITIKA GORGE VIEW.
24mm, f/14, 1/60th sec, ISO 400
24mm, f/14, 1/60th sec, ISO 400
Photography Location 5: The Upper Gorge Viewpoint
Approximately 200 metres beyond the upper suspension bridge, the track reaches its furthest point — a scenic viewpoint looking out over the upper Hokitika River valley and the farmland of Kowhitirangi, with the Southern Alps rising in the distance. This is a quieter and more expansive viewpoint than the lower gorge platforms, offering a completely different compositional perspective.
From here you get a real sense of the wider landscape surrounding the gorge: the vast green patchwork of West Coast farmland, the river winding down from the mountains, and wild forested ridgelines rolling away to the horizon.
Photography tips: This is a great spot for your zoom or telephoto lens — pull in the distant mountains and compress the layers of landscape. On a clear morning you may catch beautiful light raking across the valley floor.
Completing the Loop
From the upper viewpoint, the track returns to the car park via the western side of the loop — a pleasant 15-minute walk back through the native forest. Take your time through this final section. The bush is beautiful and the sounds of the forest - tui, bellbird, and fantail are all regularly heard here.
Approximately 200 metres beyond the upper suspension bridge, the track reaches its furthest point — a scenic viewpoint looking out over the upper Hokitika River valley and the farmland of Kowhitirangi, with the Southern Alps rising in the distance. This is a quieter and more expansive viewpoint than the lower gorge platforms, offering a completely different compositional perspective.
From here you get a real sense of the wider landscape surrounding the gorge: the vast green patchwork of West Coast farmland, the river winding down from the mountains, and wild forested ridgelines rolling away to the horizon.
Photography tips: This is a great spot for your zoom or telephoto lens — pull in the distant mountains and compress the layers of landscape. On a clear morning you may catch beautiful light raking across the valley floor.
Completing the Loop
From the upper viewpoint, the track returns to the car park via the western side of the loop — a pleasant 15-minute walk back through the native forest. Take your time through this final section. The bush is beautiful and the sounds of the forest - tui, bellbird, and fantail are all regularly heard here.
A NATURAL WONDER
Hokitika Gorge is one of the New Zealand’s beautiful natural locations. In a country absolutely full of world-class landscapes, this stretch of glacial river cutting through white granite walls in the heart of West Coast rainforest ranks as a ‘must see’.
For photographers it is a dream location - intimate enough to compose compelling images at every turn, dramatic enough to produce frames that genuinely memorable, and accessible enough to visit whatever your experience level or physical ability. Whether you are working with a smartphone or a full professional kit, you will leave with images you are genuinely proud of
Hokitika Gorge is one of the New Zealand’s beautiful natural locations. In a country absolutely full of world-class landscapes, this stretch of glacial river cutting through white granite walls in the heart of West Coast rainforest ranks as a ‘must see’.
For photographers it is a dream location - intimate enough to compose compelling images at every turn, dramatic enough to produce frames that genuinely memorable, and accessible enough to visit whatever your experience level or physical ability. Whether you are working with a smartphone or a full professional kit, you will leave with images you are genuinely proud of
Inspired by the experience?
Bring these memories into your home or office space by purchasing a canvas or fine art print from my Online Print Store
Bring these memories into your home or office space by purchasing a canvas or fine art print from my Online Print Store
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