New Zealand comprises a small collection of islands that are deceptively hidden behind its far larger counterpart Australia. Formed through volcanic activity, its lands are rich with a diverse array of physical landscapes highlighting several different habitats and environments. From swooping verdant valleys to glacial marvels, New Zealand has it all.
Greymouth is the largest town on the west coast of South Island in New Zealand. The region where the city stands was originally the preserve of Maori tribes who used to call the area Mawhera. Pioneers first landed in the area in the mid 1800s. Coal was discovered soon after and the city of Greymouth was formed. The city was named after its close proximity to the glacial Grey River. A boom town, it rapidly developed with the construction of a comprehensive rail network which was used to supply coal to other parts of New Zealand.
The surrounding countryside is considered to be some of the finest natural attractions in the world and many are UNESCO awarded national parks. Kea Heritage Tours are a popular way to see the countryside and learn about the South Island’s west coast history.
Many tour operators offer a variety of packages that range from short day tours to longer excursions lasting about a week which test the physical prowess of visitors. Popular tours include those that follow the ancient Greenstone Path. Used by the Maori for centuries it allows visitors to tour the exact paths and trails used by the Maori as they traversed this great land. Along the way guides will enlighten visitors to the history of the area and regale them with old Maori tales about events that took place at points along the way. Sites to see along this trail include national parks, rock formations and glaciers.
Several day tours focus on the natural beauty of the region taking visitors to explore the nearby fox glacier or the aptly named pancake mountains. Greymouth was noted as being a gold rush town, many tour operators offer trips to many old gold rush sites that explore the rivers and old mines that were used in the early days. Visitors are encouraged to try their hand at panning for gold in the river waters; you never know when you might get lucky!
Travellers looking for a hotel in Greymouth to reside in whilst exploring the natural wonders in the surrounding area should consider the centrally located Kingsgate Hotel Greymouth. An elegant Greymouth hotel in the heart of the city centre providing easy access to the amazing array of tours and attractions allowing visitors to fully explore and appreciate the allure of the west coast.
