Westland Tai Poutini National Park
Welcome to the magnificent Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a hidden gem nestled on the captivating West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Prepare to be enchanted by this extraordinary destination, where nature reigns supreme and adventure awaits at every turn.
Spanning from the majestic Southern Alps to the untamed Tasman Sea, Westland National Park is a haven of rainforests, glaciers, and untouched coastlines. As New Zealand’s fifth largest national park, it boasts a unique allure that is sure to captivate your senses. If you’d like read more about New Zealand’s National Parks then check out this guide!
The Franz Josef Glacier Township receives an astounding 5 meters of rainfall annually which showcases an incredibly lush rainforest like no other.
Kayak on the Lake Mapourika: Westland National Park
Amidst this natural wonderland lies the breath-taking Lake Mapourika, a pristine oasis at the heart of the wild West Coast and Southern Alps. Unlike the vegetation-scarce Southern Alps, Lake Mapourika is cocooned by magnificent Jurassic-era temperate rainforest, boasting a surreal ambiance. Over 14,000 years ago, the retreating Franz Josef Glacier sculpted this picturesque lake, leaving behind an 80-meter-deep kettle lake teeming with life. Prepare to encounter native birds, the elusive long-finned eel, and an abundance of salmon and brown trout.
Kayaking on Lake Mapourika allows you to immerse yourself in the wilderness, but navigating into narrow estuaries or silently paddling alongside native birds such as the Kotuku (White Heron). 
Other Rainy Day Adventures in the Park
Kayaking is only of the many options for rainy day adventures in the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. When visiting this captivating region, embrace the rain – that’s when the adventures unfold!
Engage in our fully covered scenic boat tours, where you’ll witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Westland’s rainforest and coastlines while staying comfortably dry. For the fishing enthusiasts, embark on our exciting fishing charters and reel in the bounty of these rich waters. And if you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, our off-road adventure quad bike tours will take you on a thrilling journey through the rain-soaked landscapes…
With approximately 200 days of rain each year in Franz Josef Glacier, exploring in the rain is a common occurrence. Embrace the elements as you paddle or cruise through the mist, marveling at the ethereal beauty of the rainforest in its natural, untouched state. The views are simply breathtaking and an experience like no other.
So, get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of Westland Te Poutini National Park. Let the rainforest’s embrace, the glaciers’ majesty, and the untamed coastlines ignite your spirit of adventure. This is a destination that promises unforgettable moments and endless natural wonders to explore.
