Westland Tai Poutini National Park

Westland Tai Poutini is a national park stretching from the Southern Alps peaks down to the Tasman Sea, containing glaciers, rainforests, and alpine tundra. The terrain transitions through different elevation zones, connecting high mountain landscapes with wet coastal forests.

The park was established in 1960 and expanded during the 1980s by adding forest areas to provide stronger protection along the coast. These additions demonstrate how conservation efforts were systematically broadened in this region.

The area holds deep meaning for Ngāi Tahu, who gathered pounamu along these coasts and established communities here for centuries. This relationship with the land shapes how the region is understood and valued today.

The villages of Fox Glacier and Franz Josef offer lodging, guided tours, and visitor services for exploring the park. Before visiting, check current weather and trail conditions, as the region receives heavy rain and can affect access to hiking routes.

The park holds the only natural population of the rowi, a rare kiwi species living in lowland forests near sea level. This bird exists nowhere else on Earth, making the park a particularly important place for conservation.