Westland Tai Poutini National Park

The park spans 1,320 square kilometers from the peaks of the Southern Alps to the Tasman Sea, featuring glaciers, rainforests, and alpine tundra.

The designation of Westland Tai Poutini as a national park in 1960 led to multiple expansions, incorporating Okarito and Waikukupa State Forests from 1982.

The region holds deep significance for Ngai Tahu people who gathered pounamu along the coast and maintained settlements at Maitahi, Makawhio, and Okarito.

Two townships within the park, Fox Glacier and Franz Josef, provide accommodation, guided tours, and visitor services for exploring the glacial regions.

The park contains the only natural habitat of the rowi, a rare kiwi species that dwells in the lowland forests near sea level.

Location: West Coast Region

Inception: 1960

Part of: Te Wahipounamu

GPS coordinates: -43.38333,170.18333

Latest update: May 17, 2025 10:26