About Greymouth
West Coast, New Zealand.

Greymouth is the largest town and main business centre on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, with a population of approximately 13,000.

Named for its locality at the mouth of the mighty Grey River, it is surrounded by rainforest, wild beaches and glorious lakes, back dropped by the majestic Southern Alps, New Zealand’s highest mountains. Set in the middle of the West Coast region, Greymouth is a great place to stay as most attractions on ‘The Coast’ are only a day trip away.

Just over a century ago, gold was found in the region and the Greymouth settlement quickly developed into a gold mining town. Today many reap the rewards of the Grey Districts sensational natural resources and thrill seeking activities. Greymouth township offers the largest shopping centre on the West Coast, including many wine bars, cafes, galleries and a fascinating museum, all encompassed by the rugged coastline and native forestry.

Early history

The Grey River was a major landing place for Maori canoes from the North and South. The Maori came here for jade (pounamu) which Maori used for weapons and tools instead of steel. It was harder, in fact, than most metals.

The Maori legend about the creation of the mighty Grey River tells the story of Tue Te Rakiwhanoa, a powerful ancestor, who broke the side out of the Great Canoe to let the water inside it out, and save the South Island from sinking.

The scenery is often described as "wild" and "rugged" but it is certainly beautiful with good roads. Approximately 10km’s south of Greymouth and 4 minutes drive from Chapel Hill is Shantytown, one of New Zealand’s leading tourist attractions.

It is a faithfully restored replica of an 1860's West Coast gold mining town and a living monument to the hardy pioneers who forded the wildly exotic rivers and streams, and scrambled through the rugged subtropical rainforest in search of their fortunes.

Seasons

The main tourist season on the West Coast runs from mid-October thru summer to the end of April. Pre-booking accommodation and activities is recommended during this period.

During Winter months the warmer current of the Tasman Sea make Greymouth and the Coast's temperatures mild compared to other parts of the South Island. Winter weather on the Coast is generally settled, with crisp mornings, blue skies, and snow on the mountain tops giving the region a wonderful fresh feel. It is an ideal time to visit, to ski, trout fish, hike, mountain bike or relax by a blazing log fire reading your favourite book.

For more detailed information about the Coast, visit Tourism West Coast’s web site: www.greydistrict.co.nz