Things to do and Attractions in Greymouth

West Coast Wilderness Trail

There's no better way to get up close to the West Coast's lush rainforest, pristine rivers, tranquil lakes and rugged beaches, with the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps a truly sublime backdrop – especially in winter, a fabulous time to ride. Easy to reach and to ride, the spectacular multi-day trail retraces old packhorse tracks, tramlines, railways, water races, historic bridges, linked by flowing singletrack. Many natural wonders are revealed along the way, while small towns and heritage sites offer a chance to delve deep into the region's fascinating history.

www.westcoastwildernesstrail.co.nz

Shantytown Heritage Park

Shantytown is one of New Zealand's premier cultural and heritage attractions. Made up of over 30 historic buildings it is a faithfully recreated 19th century pioneer town, inspired by the West Coast gold rushes of the 1860s. Highlights include riding the steam train, gold panning, the Beehive store with its range of traditional confectionery and the opportunity to have an old-time photo portrait taken as a memento of your visit.

www.shantytown.co.nz

Brunner Mine Site

One of the most significant historical sites on the West Coast. If you want to learn more about the New Zealand people then the Brunner Mine Site just outside of Greymouth is a good place to go. This 2km walk around coke ovens, a brick factory and the remains of tunnel entrances have interactive displays going through the history.

www.doc.govt.nz

On Yer Bike!

Get behind the wheel of a powerful four-wheel-drive buggy and head deep into the New Zealand back-country on this unique West Coast experience. Drive through untouched native rainforest and across muddy paddocks and valleys in a rough-and-tumble buggy made for the terrain. No licence or experience is required: training is provided so every driver knows how to handle these exhilarating vehicles.

www.onyerbike.co.nz

Lake Brunner

One inland lake that many backpackers don't even know about on the West Coast is Lake Brunner. This dark reflective lake surrounded by rainforest and mountains is picture-perfect with plenty of walks and boat trips to make the most of it.

www.golakebrunner.co.nz

Monteith's Brewery Tour

Beer is kind of a big deal in New Zealand. Check out the brewery of one of New Zealand's biggest beer brands, Monteith's in its home turf on the West Coast. Learn about the beer-making process while seeing the inner workings of this working brewery. At the end, you even get to pour your own beer. Food and beer tastings are also available.

www.monteiths.co.nz

TranzAlpine

Greymouth Railway Station is the beginning/end of one of the world's most scenic train journeys as voted in multiple travel publications. Hop on the TranzAlpine in Greymouth and enjoy a journey through West Coast rainforest and lakes on the way to the mountainous regions of the Arthur's Pass National Park. You'll go through a nearly 2km-long tunnel piercing through the mountains. The Tranz Alpine travels from Christchurch and departs at 8am and arrives in Greymouth at 1pm, returning to Christchurch at 2.15pm to arrive in Christchurch at 6pm.

www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Buccleugh's on High

A modern facility with indoor or outdoor dining offers an environment and atmosphere to suit everyone from single business travellers and couples through to family and party groups. The menu is sure to impress with a wide range of traditional fare, but including mouth-watering West Coast options from both land and sea. You can try whitebait, venison or blue cod. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available.

www.rechotel.co.nz

Paparoa Track

Experience our newest Great Walk – a purpose-built, shared-use hiking and mountain biking track within the Paparoa National Park on the West Coast of the South Island. This Great Walk crosses the Paparoa Range, taking you through alpine tops, limestone karst landscapes and thriving rainforests. The Paparoa Track provides walking and cycling access through the remote and spectacular wilderness of the Paparoa National Park.