Such a great experience! Mike was a very entertaining host. We got a mix of history and geology thrown in with the fun and speed. It felt very safe throughout. I would highly recommend - just make sure you use sunscreen!

The view is amazing, Mark is very funny and friendly, the drive is awesome, so much better than the one we had in Queenstown! Highly recommended!!! And Bowie is so cute!!

This was shut the front door fun, Mark is the best operator in New Zealand, smaller boat than in Queenstown but more crazy, more professional and much much much more adventurous. You get your bang for the buck and then some. I can't stress this enough, this is the BEST one and I highly recommend everyone to go here and enjoy it. We did others as well but this one... OMG, the speed, the thrill! Thank you Mark for really putting the F in fun for us 🤣 A 360° greeting from the Public Speaker from Sweden with special request 🤣

Have rode Shotover in Queenstown but this was miles better. Excellent 'Driver' and amusingly commentary. Suspension Bridge just added to the overall experience. Looking forward to returning sometime soon.

Had an amazing trip on the Buller with Mark. He was such a good host and guide. Never done jet boating before and not sure we’ll ever top this one as it’s a stunningly beautiful place. Thank you for an amazing afternoon Mark.

My Husband and I had a spectacular time with on the jet boat. Mark, our driver went above and beyond to ensure we had a great time. We wanted to take photos and videos, so Mark was very clear at communicating when was an appropriate time to video/ take a photo and when it was best to put the camera away to ensure we held on for some 360 spins. Highly recommend Buller Canyon Jet Boating. While there you can also experience the Bulla Canyon Swing Bridge. Thanks Bulla Jet Boat company and Mark for a wonderful day it is truly a holiday highlight.

We stopped here on the drive to Westport, and were so glad we did. There was a swing bridge going across the buller river,different walks to go on ,long or short, interesting things to look at for all ages. A zip wire ride, and best of all there was Marc with his Jet boat, what an incredible experience up and down the river, through the Rapids. Marc was an amazing character and really made the trip. Not the cheapest thing to do but well worth the money.

We had an enjoyable time at this venue so I'm curious why there are some negative reviews. The team really need to cut back the vegetation on the loop walk so visitors could enjoy the view properly. The bridge is exhilarating, although I wish people were less comfortable crossing at the same time! The toilets could do with a deep clean but were acceptable in the meantime. Staff were friendly. Definitely worth the minimal entrance fee.

Went here a while back and didn’t expect you had to pay. The next time I came back and bit the bullet and was pleasantly surprised. Such beautiful views and heaps to do once you get over the other side. You might have to be patient as the swing bridge isn’t that wide, and also be careful of where you put your hand as I got a small cut on mine. It is so very worth it though. Lovely loop tracks and multiple natural attractions to look at.

Overall value for money 2.5/5 No family pass No combos so yiu do mkre activities and save. Bridge 3.9/5 $12.50 - Went in the morning. Manager/owner was very welcoming and friendly. Paid our entry and went on in. My first thought of the bridge was disappointing after being on the ones further down the country, yes this one is longer but I feel it could be better. When searching and looking at things to do I didnt take a close look at what the bridge was made of or looked like in detail. Comet line 4/5 fun - 1/5 not Including access to bridge and walks. $40 + $25 for photos and videos. Tandem Comet line and it was fun. Interesting to be one behind the other and not next to each there. Definitely could be longer and definitely could be faster. $25 extra for a flash drive with the photos and videos seemed expensive though especially if you paid for the other thing. Gold panning 3.5/5 Sand flies 1/5 Unfortunately we did not get told about the sand flies when we arrived. We were covered head to toe in them when we went to the area to do this activity. Went and brought some bug spray from the front desk ($25) and this only kept them away for a few minutes. The activity itself was really fun but as I only got to do it for a very small amount of time it has become the worst thing I have done in years. As we left we mentioned about how bad the experience was and that the bug spray did an aweful job and we really didnt do much panning because of the sand flies and his comment was "yeah they are quite bad this time of year" and didnt really care at all. We were just another person who had already paid. If you do go, there is some enjoyment in some of the activities but 100% do not go anywhere near the gold panning, and take good bug repellent.

Unexpected cost of 25 nzd to walk across. But the other side has over an hour of beautiful hiking to a beach and waterfall along with epic jungle views. It's worth the cost, especially because few people leave the main trail.

Awesome place woth amazing view. Very friendly staff who even waited for us to arrive as we were running a little late. Highly recommended

What an adventurous place to visit!! The experience of the bridge walk is tremendous. A bit scary but feels fun once you done it. The walk around the island is amazing as you pass many amazing spots as the river beach and the big tree. You can watch a lot of birds around there. The bridge walk and the island walk is not expensive. You can do extra activities like zip liner with an extra payment. There is a small cafe and toilets inside and a plenty of parking available there.

It was fun to go across the bridge, but there were a lot of little bugs on the other side that were biting our legs so beware. Not much to do on the other side other than a walk with some old historic mining equipment. you could also pay extra to go on the speedboat or the zip line.

We loved this experience! We were the only two booked onto our tour so it was like a private tour. The train ride at the start is beautiful. The caves are really amazing with lots of formations to see up close. The glow worm cave is really big and is a magical experience. We really enjoyed tubing down the river too. Thank you to Jet for being a great guide. There was a QR code to access lots of photos taken afterwards and you get some printed too. 100% recommend this experience!

Our caving tour with Underworld Adventures was absolutely unforgettable! This experience is perfect for those who are fit and ready for a unique underground adventure. Our guide, Tess, shared fascinating information about the caves and the surrounding area. Exploring the caves was both thrilling and awe-inspiring, with incredible rock formations and stunning glowworms that lit up the darkness like a starry sky—simply sensational! The tubing at the end of the tour was a fun and exciting way to wrap up the experience. If you’re up for a bit of a challenge and an unforgettable journey through one of nature’s hidden wonders, this is the tour for you! Highly recommend! 🌟🦇🌿💦

Jet was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the system. He definitely made the adventure! Would definitely do it again. Awesome site for the glow worms, history and geology!

Our tour was one of the highlights of our South Island time!! We really enjoyed this caving and rafting tour. Our guide Jess did an amazing job leading us through the cave, pointing out different formations along the way. She gave a ton of great info about the cave history, glowworms, and area history as well! We had a blast and learned a lot. The rainforest train was also lovely. I definitely recommend you grab a pie and coffee in their café after your tour.

Good place. Clean material, potos not bad, but can be better. The experience it's amazing itself. The instructors are really kind, they explain everything and always are close to you, in the cave is amazing the experience and the blue sly looks just like the paradise. The rafting on the river is easy and funny. Highly recommend

My English isn't good enough; I didn't understand anything the guild was saying. But I could still feel their passion. The place is absolutely stunning, and the rafting, although fast, is well worth it! The café staff are friendly, and the view is magnificent. I highly recommend it; it's an activity you absolutely must do.

This place was an unexpected surprise, all the time I've driven this road and I never realized there was a little railway here that runs into the rainforest. Sadly I arrived too late to catch the train but was told that I was more than welcome to walk the track up to the caves, so I made a donation and away i went on my own little reenactment of 'Stand by me'! Some awesome country up here, some of the cliffs and overhangs are quite mindblowing and the swing bridge where I eventually turned back for home is also a spectacular little spot. I'm claustrophobic and can't swim so didn't do the cave tours or rafting but the feedback i heard was also very good. 😃 HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Unexpectedly nice, short walk to a lovely, small, non-crowded beach. You have the opportunity to take a small waterfall-shower (; Right next to the Punakaiki Rocks, worth the time!

It’s a lovely little walk to the coast and it has some amazing views, well worth a quick stop off

Easy walk, beautiful views, lots of native birds, highly recommended walk

Fantastic walk....Beach at the end of this Scenic track!! Memories ❤️❤️

Beautiful walk. Easy access and lovely panoramic views.

A short walk to a stunning piece of coastline. Not to be missed while you are in the area.

STOP your car! Get out and walk down this beautiful track to the beach. It is definitely worth it. Overhanging cliff faces, smooth polished stones, crashing waves and a blow hole at high tide.

Food was amazing as well as the 6 paddle off beers. Well worth trying. Very cozy atmosphere and the food came out quickly.

Exceeded expectations. Service was quick, yet friendly. Food was fabulous. Fries were exceptionally memorable. Thick, crispy outside and fluffy inside.

Monteith’s Brewery is a fantastic spot to visit, even if you’re not there for the drinks. The food was excellent - fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. There’s a great variety on the menu, and everything we tried was cooked perfectly. The location is lovely, with a warm and relaxed atmosphere that makes it perfect for both families and groups of friends. It’s a great place to unwind, enjoy a good meal, and take in the surroundings. Highly recommend stopping by if you’re in the area - it’s a memorable experience for the food and setting alone!

The best place to eat in Greymouth without doubt. It's colourful and lively and every dish we've tried was excellent. The service is prompt, this visit was a highlight of our West Coast visit.

Great beer tasting, however food is not good enough! Everything is too salty!!

My wife and I did the Monteith's Brewery Tour and stayed on afterwards for a meal. The tour was very good. It was interesting to learn about the history of the brewery, and it was great to get to pour and taste some of the beers. Our guide was really entertaining and knowledgeable too, which made the experience even better. The meal afterwards was first-class. The service was spot-on, and the food was excellent. Thank you Monteith's for such a great experience...on such a wet and windy day in Greymouth :)

We did the brewery tour with Toni and she was awesome! It ended up being only myself and my partner doing it and she gave us advice on different beers to try along with local knowledge of events on over the weekend we were visiting. Totally recommend 👌 she's awesome at her job

This is a great day trip option from Christchurch! The drive is scenic as you get closer to the park and there are several places to stop along the way! There are several hiking options at and near the park! The staff at the DOC are quite helpful as well!

One of the best DOC hut in the country, very informative. Cute Kea kiosk :)

Great source of information about hikes of all levels of difficulty. Turns out half the staff are volunteer firefighters too having watched them turn out yesterday. There are also some souvenirs and clothing for sale. Don't forget to buy your hut passes too!

The team had absolutely excellent knowledge for us and others who were planning a long walk. Absolutely recommend talking to the team before heading out. They spoke about the places to walk/stay and places to not walk/stay. And also what places were good at the time of the year and for rainy conditions we had.

A nice place for a short break. The staff are friendly, and they provide tons of information about activities to do around Arthur's Pass National Park. There is plenty of parking in the area, and toilets are also available for free. See pictures and videos for details.

The Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre is on State Highway 73 near the east end of the village. Opening hours are 8am to 5pm and there is a large carpark and public toilets available. A stop at the Visitor Centre is a good opportunity to pick up information on trail and road conditions, local weather conditions and any other information needed to support your visit to the Arthur's Pass area. You will also find an expected range of souvenirs and gifts here. There is an historic Cobb & Co stage coach and other interesting displays that make for a good way to spend 15-20 minutes. Lastly, there is a film you can watch regarding the history of Arthur's Pass. I believe the fee was NZ$2 per person for them to run the film.

Arthus pass is breathtaking! I actually cried when we stopped at the Viaduct lookout! Such a beautiful place 😍

Awesome activities with kids, mine were ages 12, 14 & 16 and all were entertained and enjoyed themselves, the gold panning was the highlight as well as playing around with the prison and reading the orewa hospital medicines. 100% highly recommended. A bit pricy for the whole experience $145 but worth it for all 5 of us.

We came on a busy day as they had a tourism convention going on, so parking was hard to find (this is not normal). We had a great time stepping back in time and walking around the town. There is a cafeteria for lunch or a snack /coffee etc and if you have a letter to post, if you take it with you, you can have it postmarked from Shantytown. There is a train ride you can take and the guide is very knowledgeable about the history. He operated an old sluice to demonstrate how they used to fire water at the rock they wanted to mine for. After that, the optional $10 per person will give you an opportunity to pan for Gold and you are given excellent instructions on how to do this. A great place to take the whole family! If you're going to do panning, allocate 2-3 hours minimum for this visit.

You can’t miss this place when visiting the West Coast! You can ride the steam train, revisit the past at the museum, have some coffee and food, try to get lucky and pan for gold, or hang out at the playground. Locals can get a great deal with an annual ticket ☺️👌🏽 Awesome place to come with kids.

Having lived in greymouth for the first 30 years of my life. I have visited many times. It has changed a lot. Definitely worth visiting at least once. Train rides three times a day. Open 7 days. There is a café also. Gold panning is available for $10 per person. Panning is part of the train ride. Getting gold from panning is garunteed. At the time of typing this review, gold is $7000 for a teaspoon( one ounce) of gold. So, the $10 fee for panning is well worth it.

Absolutely loved it, make sure to come early to give yourself time to walk around, lots o d history, steam train was an exciting experience and I loved the uniqueness of the town. Don’t know what all the negative reviews are for, I came when there was no costume actors around and I think they have done a wonderful job at showing the history. The lady in the front is also very kind and sweet. Highly recommend coming here if you love history

Not what i expected, I have been to some great well maintained heritage villages and this is not one if them. Gives you a very basic insight into the past from a museum built 54 years ago and not maintained. Dirty dusty and dark, could do with a spring clean better lighting and more props.

Fun place for children! Lovely train experience here!

Absolutely awesome beach! Clean sand, clear water, and a super relaxing vibe. The sunset was stunning and the whole atmosphere felt peaceful and refreshing. A perfect spot to unwind — loved every moment ☺️

Hokitika’s beach is rugged and beautiful, lined with rocks, crashing waves, and plenty of driftwood shaped by the sea. The highlight is the famous “HOKITIKA” driftwood sign, a creative landmark and a must-stop photo spot. Walking along the sand, you’ll find driftwood scattered everywhere and may even try spotting pounamu (greenstone), treasured by the Māori as a protective stone. It feels like a small treasure hunt, adding charm to the stroll. We also noticed locals arranging wood and stones into messages like “HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025,” giving the beach a creative, personal touch. The best moment comes at Sunset Point, where people gather to watch the sun sink into the Tasman Sea. The driftwood letters glow golden, the sky turns deep orange, and the atmosphere feels calm yet unforgettable. A must-visit stop on New Zealand’s West Coast.

Sign needs fixing but still nice stop. War pillbox was even better to see.

Such a cute set up of the sign, beautiful to have some food in the car park or sit on the rocks and enjoy the scenery.

Amazing, magical Oceanside village! Visited in the winter.

Cane early but wish I saw sunset. Cool sign.

Enjoyed our visit, we had a beautiful sunny day. Nice little town to walk round and visit the many stores. Loved the beach.

This is a place where you can walk while looking at the great view from high trees. It is a place where you can walk along the course made at the top of the tree (about 25 meters high). If you go up a little past the ticket booth, you will see the tree top walking starting point, and it takes about 20 minutes to look around the entire course. The course is not long, but you can see the great view from high up and see various birds in nature. (It is not easy to find or see.) There is an observation deck at the midpoint of the course, and if you go up to this observation deck, you can see the sea across the forest. Overall, the great view and the unique experience of walking on a tree top are great, but since these courses are 25 meters high, the installed bridge shakes a little every time you walk, so if you have a fear of heights, I recommend you think again, and you do not necessarily need a reservation for this experience. There is no problem even if you just go without a reservation.

We got a deal online, so ticket price was halved, so we did zipline & walkway combo. All the staff were SUPER helpful and friendly. Zipline was fun and felt very safe with all the checks .

We had a great time here. Very quiet as out of weekend/holiday so cannot comment on how it would be the other side of that coin! Clearly signposted from the highway, Friendly and helpful staff. The walk was great, lots of education along the way if you can handle the heights for long enough! Climbing the tower was great too with exceptional views, we even timed it to watch some people do the Zipline (which looks awesome by the way, next time!!). Would very much come back and my girlfriend who has vertigo, enjoyed it too.... The walkway was as solid as you could hope and she appreciated conquering her fears enough to experience being within the tree canopy. Well worth the trip and money

It'd be better on a clear day but a foggy forest isn't too bad. Quite pricey for a walk but the staff were friendly and overall felt very safe.

Amazing views from the platforms. I climbed into the tower and it was breathtaking. Son did the Zipline and said it was fantastic.

Absolutely fantastic Views and great experience Bit expensive for a walk but definitely enjoyed the experience

Absolutely brilliant experience. My 75 year old mother and I took part in our first zip line experience. Matthew was lovely, and brilliant at explaining the process, and gave us very clear instructuons..... the whole experience was an absolute joy, and my mother loved it. Tea and cake at the cafe topped off a wonderful morning. A huge thanks to all staff!

West Coast Wildlife Centre is an absolute must-visit if you’re in the area. The staff are so passionate and knowledgeable, it’s clear they care a lot about the conservation of local wildlife - especially the endangered kiwi. A lot of work goes into protecting and supporting the local kiwi population, and now the local penguin community too. A visit to the centre as of 18th October ‘25 now includes a walk through the kiwi habitat and the newly opened penguin enclosure, where the team provide a safe space for the little blue penguins who wouldn’t survive in the wild to live their best life. You’ll learn a lot and see some truly adorable local NZ wildlife. 10/10 absolutely recommend.

Really interesting place to visit in Franz Josef. There are lots of outdoorsy activities to get involved with in this area but if you ever the weather is nit so good, or youre lookjbv for something different to do, and recommend this place. We booked the VIP entrance which gave us access to the kiwi egg incubating/ area and hatching and Tuatara back area. You will see kiwis, Tuatara and little penguins on the standard entrance ticket. It was fascinating and the host was full of interesting facts and info. This is not a zoo. The work being done here is in conjunction with Govt departments and is all about conservation. You will learn alot about these unique animals. You get a chance to see kiwis in as near to a natural environment as is possible. As such, I would not recommend for those with toddlers, as the kiwi area is dark and you are expected to be very quiet in order to catch a glimpse. You choice though. However, there are Kororoa / little penguins to make up for it and they're easily accessible. Coffee area and gift shop here too. Would recommend.

Amazing experience! If you have a rainy day in Franz Josef and looking for an indoor activity, book yourselves the vip backstage tour. In our tour, we learned about the kiwi conservation efforts and even got to see a 23 day old kiwi behind glass being weighed, absolutely adorable. All exhibitions were extremely interesting but the regular kiwi and penguin exhibition was the highlight! Kiwis are kept in dark rooms and they were so easy to spot and very active when we visited. Little blue penguins are so social and curious! Could’ve watched them for hours. 10/10 experience.

Part of our organize tour, we visited this wildlife center .. we got to see the blue penguins, the guide gave us so much information about them , very interesting.. then we had to be quiet , we entered a very dark room , no photos allowed but we were lucky enough to see a real kiwi in his habitat .. of course lots of teaching given .. as you exist , a gift shop awaits you..

If you are looking to learn about what makes New Zealand so special this is your place! We did the VIP backstage, which we HIGHLY recommend. Devin was very knowledgeable and most importantly extraordinarily excited about his work! You could feel the passion oozing out of him. Seeing rare species and learning about the hard work this centre is doing to preserve it was amazing. A must do!

An absolutely wonderful place to learn about and see kiwis, the backstage tour where you can see the kiwi eggs and learn more about how they get and incubate them was definitely worth it! Their gift shop also has a vast selection of kiwi and NZ themed items as well. Highly recommend for anyone in the area or driving through. The penguins and extremely unique Tuataras were also really cool!

I have to agree with some of the lower starred reviews. This was a very expensive experience for not a lot of value. We arrived late in the day, on a wet day…the (2) kiwis on show that day were elusive and the penguins were in their burrows so we didn’t get to see them at all. Would have liked to have learnt more about the rescue operation but it was all based on reading panels which weren’t very engaging - more videos of the kiwis programmes would have been better. If you want a decent experience buy the Backstage pass maybe and be there for the penguin feeding - otherwise very $$$$ for what it was. Took all of 15 minutes to see what we could. And sorry but the exhibits are just not modern or interactive enough for the value.

This was truly a once in a lifetime experience. We were so lucky to have the opportunity to e-bike and hike towards the Fox Glacier with two incredible guides giving us an unforgettable and humbling experience with mother nature at her best. Billy and Jake were amazing guides and this experience will always be something I will cherish forever. ❤️

Our morning helihike was cancelled due to poor weather but they were able to reschedule us for the same afternoon when the rain cleared. What a surreal experience 🥹❄️ surrounded by deep blue crevasses and endless peaks, our guide Jake worked tirelessly to carve a way through the ice 🧊 for us. What an absolute legend. Sadly, it’s unlikely Fox Glacier will survive its current form for future generations due to warming temperatures so knowing the glacier is retreating makes this even more special for us. A rare moment in time we will never forget.

This was one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life, let alone in my trip to NZ! The preparation and safety briefing beforehand was thorough and professional. The helicopter ride was amazing. Then we got to spend around three hours on the glacier, hiking around, climbing up and down carved ice steps, drank glacier water straight from the source, and squeezed and slid through an ice cave. Massive thanks to our awesome guide, Serena. This was truly unforgettable and worth every penny!

Really a must try activity in NZ though it’s kinda expensive. But for the helicopter ride and 3 hours of hiking on the glacier, I would say it’s worth it. I feel safe throughout the activity and they provide good and ample attire and equipments to ensure you are safe and dry. The guides and the service staffs at the check in are all very professional and friendly.

We had an amazing glacier hike with our guide Keely! She was professional, super friendly, and made the experience unforgettable. We felt safe, learned a lot, and had so much fun. Highly recommend!

My experience was a dream. The check-in person was very clear with all the information, also the briefing pre-flight has all the needed info. The gear is very good quality. The helicopter flight is short but so much fun. Our guide was so professional and nice. He actually made sure that everyone was wearing all the gear correctly and made sure to clearly explain how to use everything. If he saw somebody struggling on the hike, he made sure to give quick tips to make their hike more comfortable (How to walk, how to properly use the walking poles...) I felt super safe at all times. I actually got worried when we arrived to the glacier because I thought the hike was going to be too hard for me but it was actually very nice. Even though we went up higher than usual (I had a very small group) I was so ready to keep going! I loved that there was no rush, they gave you enough time to take pictures and enjoy the view, but they also made sure to keep us on track so we could enjoy as much as possible. He took us to cool little ice caves and gave us a lot of fun facts. We were joined by a sherpa that has been there for 20 years who helped us go trough the toughest parts of the path. I think this was my favorite think I did in my 3 week trip to NZ.

As a wheelchair user, I was blown away to find out there was not only a way to get up on a glacier, but to actually get out on the glacier and explore. Everyone at Fox was amazing in facilitating my accessible adventure. I genuinely sensed that they were as excited as I was to be able to make this a reality. I felt safe the whole time and had an unforgettable three hours on the glacier. Heitor and Fiona and everyone else were delightful. I highly recommend it. #accessible

Visited Hooker Valley in September 2025, and it was one of the most stunning walks we’ve ever done in New Zealand! The trail is well-marked, flat and accessible, making it perfect for all ages. Along the way, we crossed three beautiful suspension bridges, each offering unique perspectives of the surrounding mountains and rivers. The scenery is constantly changing, from braided glacial rivers and tussock-filled valleys to snow-capped peaks of Aoraki / Mount Cook. The highlight of the walk is Hooker Lake itself, with its turquoise waters and icebergs floating gently on the surface. The view of Mount Cook reflecting on the lake was breathtaking — truly a picture-perfect moment. Even though it was early spring, the air was crisp and refreshing, and there were still patches of snow that added to the dramatic landscape. We spent time at the lake, taking photos and enjoying the peacefulness of the area. The trail is about 10 km return but it feels easy thanks to the well-maintained path and gentle terrain. Hooker Valley Track is a must-do for anyone visiting Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. It’s accessible, scenic and offers some of the best alpine views in New Zealand. Highly recommended for nature lovers and photographers alike!

Hooker Valley Track – Absolutely Breathtaking! We were blessed with great weather — clear skies but a bit chilly, which made the walk refreshing! Only the first bridge was open during our visit, so it was a shorter trail (about 15 minutes each way, 30 minutes total), but still totally worth it. The view was absolutely breathtaking — snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear water, and that stunning Mt Cook backdrop. Even with the limited access, it’s a must-visit spot for anyone heading to the area. ❄️✨

Good place to trek. Exceeded my expectations. It was a lovely sunny day when I went and I had a good enjoyable exercise day. 2 of the bridges were still closed but it's still worth going. Not difficult to walk. I saw people with wheelchairs along the way. Highly recommended.

Hike was done in early Oct , 2nd swing bridge is closed so we didnt find the terrain too difficult. Very scenic. Great weather on the day we hiked so all was good. Highly recommended.

Stunning scenarios and views. Would reccomend to go on a hike here. We came during spring, the weather was good, there wasn't much of a crowd and the air was fresh and clean. The hiking trails are decent, safe, and can be easily spotted so its really hard to get loss.

This world-famous track is all over social media on a blue-sky day, but honestly, it’s just as stunning when the weather turns moody — cloudy or light rain gives the whole valley a dramatic, almost mystical vibe. Of course, if it’s pouring down or snowing heavily, it’s better to stay away for safety reasons. And on a foggy day, visibility gets so low that walking into the valley kind of defeats the purpose. The track itself is medium-level at most. With some basic gear you can easily finish it. Still, whether it’s summer or winter, make sure you bring proper layers and rain protection — the weather in the valley isn’t exactly four-seasons-in-one-day, but it can be as unpredictable as someone in love. The swing bridges, the glacier lake and the Hooker River are absolute highlights — not that you can miss them anyway. If you’re lucky, you might catch a full view of Aoraki / Mt Cook, but most of the time the summit hides behind the clouds. And if you ever get to witness the golden glow on the peak at sunrise or sunset, that’s pure magic — a real blessing. Trust me, unless the track is closed or visibility is dangerously low, spending around four hours here is worth it at any time.

it was a bit crowded when we visited in the beginning of march, but we were lucky to get a parking slot 😅 the way leads you through the stunning scenery of the mountains along the amazing glacier river until the lake - no steep part, it goes up and down in a really easy way and is mostly flat... also some boardwalk parts and three swing bridges to cross the river 😍🥰 definitely a must-do👍🏻✨️

Been planning this visit for 2 years now. Finally got the chance to go but unfortunately the Hooker Valley Track has been closed from the first bridge onwards. It is set to open Autumn 2026. So hopefully we make it for that next year. Otherwise, everything was so stunning. Seeing Mt.Cook right in front of me made me feel some sort of emotion- i cannot describe . I will definitely be going again in the winter.

If you are in New Zealand and you didn’t visit Mount Aoraki then it is a bog miss, not fulfilled of your trip. It is a mind blowing view from any place, the road trip is awesome and refreshing journey. The picture you will be taken will not present how beautiful the serenity is. Just be there, spend some time, be quiet, make your own way, stop somewhere and breathe.

Wonderful, soring mountains, glacier and native bush walks. Can be busy, but tracks are well built for the numbers. Take your time to soak or all in. DOC information centre worth a visit for informative display.

The Aoraki/Mt Cook NP Visitors Center is one of the best I have ever explored. I have a particular interest in exploration, trekking, and history of those activities. If you do too, it is well worth an hour or so of your time. Mt Cook has been a proving ground for great mountaineers and the center documents many of those who passed through. The presentations on rescues was fascinating too. It was also the first I've seen that gives props to the first women explorers. First females, essentially climbing in dresses, had great stories.

This tourist center is worth a visit for everyone. It showcases the history, development and construction process of Mt. Cook, as well as the protection of the mountain's environment and wildlife.

While we were watching the movie (which is very interesting!), we essentially got kicked out of the building at 11:30AM by the tenant, because it’s here lunch hour!!!! So my understanding is that no matter how many people are in there (we must have been about 20 or more, the parking is full), she emptied the building so she can have here lunch. I’m fine with people taking a break, don’t get me wrong, but isn’t there a better way to treat visitors who drove hours to get there? This is an internationally famous area, with loads of visitors year round! While the video explains how proud the Kiwis are about Aoraki Mount Cook, a Kiwi kicked if out of the visitor center! Now, this being said, if you can get in when it’s open, it’s beautiful in there, great book shop and exhibitions. But here we are in the car, watching groups after groups get turned around at the door!!

Free visitor center with loads of information on Mount Cook and Tasman Glacier. We were planning on visiting the famed Hooker Valley trail but its closed again. This visitor center will keep you occupied for at least 15 mins if you are keen on history and geography. Highly recommend!

The museum is dedicated to Sir Edmund Hillary while he was in Aoraki training in preparation for his ascent on Everest. It also has the 1st glacier landing plane located there. Awesome 👌

This is attached to the hermitage hotel it has a large shop selling hiking gear but quite expensive it has very few general items. The cafe on the first floor is welcome after the hiking but can get very crowded when the tours return. There is a small museum

My wife is really interested in Sir Edmund Hillary and we were really interested in visiting the museum. Don't bother. Most of the museum talks above the alpine centre and area itself. Yes, I find that somewhat interesting, but paying $25 per adult I thought I'd get more. Get a free month on Netflix and watch some documentaries instead.

Save yourself $25 and just don't bother with this. Vaguely interesting yes but at the end of the day it is poorly presented and isn't much more than a small collection of books and photos. So much more could be done to present the story of this man in an amazing way. Until then save yourself the money

We were only visitors for a short stay. Haven't made good use of this centre. You can get information here and can also buy supplies for the climbing the snow mountains. There' s also a museum and movie to watch. It's a pity that we didn't have time to enjoy all these. Hope I can stay a few days here next time when I came.

A great perspective o the history of the nz Alps and sir Edmund Hilary.

Tourist trap. You spend there 20 minutes for $25. Mount Cook National Park visitor centre nearby is much better and free.

This place really impressed me! I didn't have high expectations going in but was blown away by the volume of interesting artifacts. Everything from antique spoons to X-Men toys. It also feels like they continue to add, maintain and build upon the collection and venue. Great spot, would highly recommend.

Great place to visit, brings back memories of toys from my childhood and more recent ones my kids have had. Lots of great old cars, trucks and planes. Model trains are great also. Lots of lego put together. Very good to just walk around and non stop looking at all the pieces.

A huge and great museum for automobile enthusiasts! With a myriad of cars, fighter/passenger planes, tractors, trains, tanks, ambulance, fire ambulances and model cars on display, those who are really into them could really spend hours and hours here! ✈️ 🚗 🚒 🚋 🚜 The cars aren’t really arranged in a particular fashion, with bits of an assortment kept in each hangar, with some being really dusty as they are kept on sand, perhaps for a particular reason. The model cars selection wasn’t too huge, though there’s some unique Oxford ones i haven’t seen before - can’t find a souvenir to bring home unfortunately.. Definitely a must visit if you are into automobiles, particularly classic ones!

This is a bit of a hard one because I loved a lot about the place and certainly the idea of it. Undoubtedly the collection is impressive and almost too much to take in. And it's understandable that the upkeep of such a private collection is no doubt costly and time consuming. It's definitely impressive, but also basically more like several sheds full of stored stuff than a 'museum'. Still recommend a visit but don't expect a pristine display, more of someone's clear love for collecting an interesting and large eclectic store of items, mostly in an as-is condition and squeezed into very limited available space. If you like nostalgia, especially toys, you will love exploring this space and spending several hours. Enjoy it for what it is. If you have very high expectations, you might be disappointed.

The Vintage Transportation Museum is a great place to visit. It has a full range of classic cars on display, all very well kept and interesting to see. There’s also a wonderful collection of old-time toys, which adds extra charm and nostalgia. It’s an enjoyable spot for both car lovers and families. Highly recommended!

This is one of the most enjoyable 2 hours I have spent in a museum. So much to see and just when you think you have seen something, look up and there is more. Old cars, planes , toys, there is so much to see.

I had no idea where I was heading into - but this place offers sensory overload for transport and toy fans and horrified me in how much stuff as a generation has landed in landfill rubbish cause no one kept it. here they have kept everything!

Mount Aspiring in New Zealand is a true gem of nature that will leave you spellbound. This majestic peak, located in the heart of the Southern Alps, offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking adventure and stunning natural beauty. The hike to Mount Aspiring is a challenging yet rewarding journey. The track takes you through breathtaking alpine landscapes, ancient glaciers, and awe-inspiring valleys. The ever-changing scenery keeps you captivated throughout the entire climb, making every step feel like a magical exploration. The panoramic views from the summit of Mount Aspiring are simply extraordinary. Gazing out over the vast and untouched wilderness, you can't help but feel a sense of wonder and tranquility. The snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and cascading waterfalls create a picture-perfect backdrop that will forever be etched into your memory. One of the highlights of Mount Aspiring is its sheer remoteness. As you venture deeper into this pristine wilderness, you'll feel a sense of solitude and serenity like nowhere else. The untouched beauty of the surrounding landscapes is truly a treat for the soul and offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life. The accessibility and safety measures in place at Mount Aspiring are commendable. The Department of Conservation has ensured well-marked trails, adequate facilities, and informative signage to guide visitors along their journey. It is important to come prepared with the right equipment and supplies, as the weather can be unpredictable and conditions can change rapidly. The rich biodiversity surrounding Mount Aspiring is another aspect that adds to its charm. From rare alpine plants to unique bird species, this area is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The opportunity to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat is a privilege that shouldn't be missed. Whether you're an experienced mountaineer or simply a nature enthusiast looking to immerse yourself in New Zealand's unparalleled beauty, a visit to Mount Aspiring is an absolute must. The raw power and untouched landscapes found here will leave you in awe and provide an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. Don't miss the chance to explore this hidden gem and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Amazing place with beautiful views. In the early spring time when I have been there I could observe several avalache from the safe place. Totally recommend that National Park ! You can also admire there Greenpeace valleies surrounded by high mountain with snow and ice!

Nice view

Breath taking view that I will never forget. Also a must-see for Lord of the Rings fans.

New Zealand is a beautiful country I need visa

If heaven's a real thing🤔 this is what it would be like! Soooooo amazingly beautiful.

Mt. Aspiring, New Zealand 🇭🇲 👉 #NaturalbeautyoftheEarth

19/4/2025 We have just finished a 5 day adventure through Bike it now. All we can say is wow. A massive than you to Kate at Clyde for the exceptional experience she put together for us. From information about the trails and amazing accommodation she organised . The people we met along the way were awesome and so friendly. Food was amazing and weather spot on. Thanks again bike it Clyde and Kate. Phil and Chrissy Hobson Darren and Jo Clark

Absolutely have to do the Lake Dunstan trail when visiting the Otago Region! All the staff were fantastic at Bike It Now from organising our ride, setting up our bikes and were so friendly and knowledgeable! Add it to your to do list when visiting the beautiful towns of Clyde/Cromwell

Im usually not big on tours but fletch and her team have convinced me. It was so much more fun doing it with them, they are all delightful and the locals they work with for accommodation and food are also amazing. We loved it. Will book with them again.

My fiancé and I had an amazing experience with Bike It Now. Their attention to detail was great and we felt reassured the whole time! We did the Otago Rail Trail over 4 days, 3 nights (on e-bikes) and it was such a pleasant experience, we had lots of time to stop along the way. We can't wait to book in for the remaining trails. Thanks bike it now team!

Did the Otago Rail Trail with Bike It Now – absolutely brilliant experience! Everything was so well organised, from luxury accommodation to dinner bookings and luggage transfers. The team were incredibly informative and made the whole journey seamless — all we had to think about was pedalling, enjoying the food, and sampling some great Otago wines. Created amazing memories along the way. 100% recommended! 🚴‍♀️🍷

Today we did the ‚One Day Wonder‘ cycle tour and we are absolutely overwhelming. We have to give a very big THANK YOU to the fabulous team of Bike It Now. They are brilliant, help you with everything….., take fear away you may have because you might believe too hard 4 me‘ or whatsoever…. SUPER ! The e-bikes are very good, quite new best standard. The trip we did was breathtaking and worth every dollar, DANKESCHÖN aus Hamburg, Frank and Claudia

I had a great experience doing the Lake Dunstan cycle trail with Bike it Now. The mountain bike I hired was perfect for the trail, and fitted with everything I needed. The pre- departure talk was very informative and made me feel more confident about tackling the ride. I caught their shuttle to Cromwell and gained a lot of local knowledge along the way from John the driver. The trail is great.

It was my first time trying go-karts and it was truly an amazing experience! My 10-year-old son had an absolute blast too. Even if you bump a little, it doesn’t hurt. Before that, we played mini golf, and it was really fun doing it with the wind blowing hard—it added to the charm!

Pop by to take a quick look during our road trip. Beautiful, powerful cars on display in the area. You would love this place if you are a race car enthusiast. Heard it will probably be one of the f1 race track in the near future from one of the locals.

Love this place, Tony has injected so much motorsport passion into NZ, recommend stopping by! Also, the team at Highlands are always so welcoming.

During our road trip through New Zealand, we stumbled upon the Highlands race track quite by chance. We were hoping that an opportunity to either drive or ride along would be available at just the right time. And I was in luck! Shortly after arriving, I was able to enjoy a very dynamic ride in a Lamborghini Huracán with a professional driver. The track is very interesting, with tight corners, fast sections through hills and valleys, and bridge crossings. I had a lot of fun and highly recommend it.

Did the 7 lap Mustang self drive. Well worth the money. Great instruction and very friendly. I would recommend. Even if you aren't a ford man like myself.

Absolutely amazing experience with instructor Matt during clay shooting at oxbow. The place is stunning, super indulged experience, safe, lots of rounds and worth every cent. A must try.

Awesome track and facilities. Staff are very friendly and helpful aswell. Look forward to coming back and racing next year

Probably the best ski resort for a general good day out for everyone in New Zealand. If you love terrain parks and pipes then this is the place to be in Australasia. Great facilities and well groomed trails. Off piste has certainly got better with the opening of Soho.

Was a wonderful ski field. Had a lot of runs to do and was great with all the lifts and covered escalator for the learners.some staff had no ideas about colours of runs so maybe something for staff to learn up on but we managed to find a ski instructor and they were really knowledgeable about the different coloured runs etc. A lot to do here and a lot of runs. Spent a good day here. Have to get here early if you want a park otherwise you won’t see your car for the day so come prepared. Cafe is on the expensive side, tourist prices of course but still a great day of skiing had. Would definitely come back for more.

Fantastic ski resort with amazing views and well-groomed slopes! Great for beginners and experienced skiers alike. Friendly staff, good facilities, and a fun atmosphere. One of the best places to ski in New Zealand! 🎿🏔️❄️

Great place for beginners to expert, but over crowded place for first timers. Should probably go to Remarkables if it’s your first time. Rentals are good quality. And the stuff is friendly and helpful. A lot of easy runs for beginners at different levels. I found it great to instruct people at different levels from beginner to intermediate. Great place for both snowboarding or skiing. Plenty of runs open and the jumps are well groomed.

Very positive and friendly Team running the resort. Private ski lessons are high quality, recommended. Moderate busy. Accommodation is very hard to book, but worth it. Rooms are clean and confortable. Several food options and coffeshop. Not your 5star level meals, but very good considering how remote the location is and supply challenges. Equipment appear to be very well maintained, including lifts, no visual signs of significant wear.

We came in the first week of September. Spring just started. It treat us well with a sunny sky in the early morning then massive snow in mid day. The field is well maintained and lots experiences for different ski level. We had fun!

Great place with great snow in 2025. Hope to get back there soon. If your car is two wheel drive, best to just catch the free shuttle from the base of the mountain to the top.

As a tourist, didn't find this place as attractive. A bunchnof old settlers hute scattered around the area. The trees around were colourful though - the hills has trees of myriad hues. So may be visit for the surrounding landscape. There areqny walking trails around the Arrowtown area. For history enthusiasts this place may be of interest, others may be not worth it ..

An incredible glimpse into the history of Arrowtown and Chinese miners in New Zealand. Lots of information, and great restoration of the site. Paired with a visit to the museum nearby, it was well worth a visit!

Some interesting historical information. Flat area to walk around. Not a great deal to see. I did however see my first ever bumblebee. Much bigger than a 'normal' bee

Historical place about the gold mine and the immigrants who worked here. Now it's a peaceful place with great walking trails. Lovely time spent here walking around and reading the descriptions on the history boards.

Great site to have a glimpse of brief history of Chinese settlement with real dwellings from local material. Ample parking and information provided at the site.

This is a real eye opener into how the Chinese who came to pan for gold kept their lives away from the main area of the town. Worth a walk around to see the replica buildings and learn about their story.

A very unique experience, haven’t seen something like that before