If you’re driving the long stretch between the adventure hubs of the lower South Island and the Picton ferry, you’re going to want a decent place to stop. West Coast Tree Tops is a total refresh for the body and mind. Here is why travellers make us their priority stop:
- We’re located directly on the main highway, just 15 minutes south of Hokitika.
- Our 47-metre tower offers sensational views of the Southern Alps and Tasman Sea.
- We have the best zipline through South Island’s ancient rimu forest.
- You can stretch your legs on our accessible walkway and refuel at our on-site café.
If you’re taking the scenic drive from the adventure hubs of the lower South Island toward the Picton ferry, you already know that the journey is just as important as the destination. A hidden gem nestled perfectly along your route in Hokitika, West Coast Tree Tops offers a well-deserved break that far surpasses a standard roadside pull-off.
You don’t even have to deviate from your main travel path for the best zipline on South Island! Our location in the Mahinapua Scenic Reserve is defined by the Māori philosophy of ki uta ki tai, which means “from the mountains to the sea”.
At the top of our platforms, you are treated to a rare dual vista: the rugged, snow-capped majesty of the Southern Alps on one side and the vast, crashing waves of the Tasman Sea on the other – a perfect encapsulation of the West Coast’s wild spirit.
The Highest Vantage Point in New Zealand
What truly differentiates us from any other forest canopy zipline in NZ is our iconic tower. Standing at an incredible 47 metres tall, it is the only treetop walk in the country featuring a tower that actually tops the forest canopy. This provides:
- Unrivalled photography opportunities to capture the scale of the Southern Alps and Lake Mahinapua from above the treeline.
- A breath of fresh air and the perfect way to stretch your legs after hours of driving.
- Bird’s-eye view of ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees from a perspective usually reserved for the birds.
The Perfect Mid-Journey Refresh
You might need a moment to recalibrate after visiting the hotspots of Queenstown or the glaciers. Our goal has always been to make West Coast Tree Tops the best South Island stop for those who want a mix of adrenaline and relaxation.
Beyond the zipline, our café offers the perfect spot to grab a coffee or a cold drink, while our gift shop features authentic souvenirs that the West Coast region is famous for. Whether you want to soar through the air or simply take a gentle stroll along the walkway to the tower, it’s the ideal way to refresh your spirit before continuing your journey north.
Don’t Just Drive Through, Soar Above!
You’re missing out if your view of the West Coast is a blur through a bus window. Make your transit a highlight of your trip with a stop at West Coast Tree Tops in Hokitika. We have the best zipline South Island detour for anyone heading towards the ferry.
Book a flight through the sky and discover why this experience is known as the best zipline South Island adventure!
FAQs
Q: Do I need to book in advance if I am travelling through on a tour bus?
A: While walk-ins are welcome, we recommend you book online to ensure your time slot aligns with your travel schedule, especially for groups. For 10% of your tickets, use the discount code ZIPLINE2026!
Q: Can I visit the café and the tower without doing the zipline?
A: Absolutely! We offer wheelchair-friendly access to our café, souvenir shop, and the spectacular 47m tower walkway for those who prefer a more grounded (but still high-altitude) experience.
Q: How far is West Coast Tree Tops from the main town of Hokitika?
A: Located just a short 15-minute drive south of Hokitika, making us a convenient stop for anyone travelling the main highway.
