Hokitika Gorge, Granite defile in Westland District, New Zealand.
Hokitika Gorge is a narrow granite canyon carved by the Hokitika River, where the water rushes through towering rock walls. The steep cliffs create a dramatic natural passage that extends for several kilometers through solid stone.
The first suspension bridge across this gorge opened in 1933, built through partnership funding between the government and Westland County Council. This structure allowed people and livestock to safely cross the river where a natural passage existed.
Maori people historically used this route to cross between the Rakaia River and West Coast through Whitcombe Pass during their journeys.
Two suspension bridges cross the gorge, with the upper bridge open to visitors on a regular basis. Wear sturdy footwear and prepare for changing weather conditions, as this location frequently experiences rain and damp surroundings.
The 90-metre suspension bridge opened on 16 August 2020, one of New Zealand's longest, crossing upstream of the 1933 bridge at an island in the river. It lets walkers pass through the treetops on the island and turned the former one-way track into a loop through the reserve.
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