West Coast Treetop Walk and Tower
Walk 20m high among ancient rimu trees, ascend a spiral tower for stunning views, and experience thrilling ziplines.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
West Coast Treetop Walk and Tower
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk 20m high among ancient rimu trees, ascend a spiral tower for stunning views, and experience thrilling ziplines.
"The great view and the unique experience of walking on a tree top are great."
Conquer Your Vertigo
The walkway has a slight bounce, but many with vertigo found it manageable and rewarding. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
The walk takes 20-45 mins, but you can spend longer enjoying the views and nature. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Treetop Canopy Walk
Rimu Tree Canopy
Stroll 20 meters high through ancient rimu trees on a unique elevated walkway.
Spiral Viewing Tower
Observation Tower
Ascend to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the forest and sea.
Flying Fox Zipline
Zipline Launch Point
For the adventurous, experience an exhilarating zipline ride from the tower.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Heights (Carefully!)
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Conquer Your Vertigo
The walkway has a slight bounce, but many with vertigo found it manageable and rewarding. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
The walk takes 20-45 mins, but you can spend longer enjoying the views and nature. :camerawithflash:
Check for Deals
Look for online deals, especially for combo tickets including the zipline. :moneybag:
Zipline Thrills
The zipline from the tower is a popular adventurous option. :rocket:
Tips
from all over the internet
Conquer Your Vertigo
The walkway has a slight bounce, but many with vertigo found it manageable and rewarding. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
The walk takes 20-45 mins, but you can spend longer enjoying the views and nature. :camerawithflash:
Check for Deals
Look for online deals, especially for combo tickets including the zipline. :moneybag:
Zipline Thrills
The zipline from the tower is a popular adventurous option. :rocket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the unique experience of walking among ancient trees and the stunning panoramic views from the tower. The zipline is a hit for thrill-seekers. Some with a fear of heights found the walkway's sway noticeable but manageable, while others enjoyed it immensely.
"This is a place where you can walk while looking at the great view from high trees. It is a place where you can walk along the course made at the top of the tree (about 25 meters high). If you go up a little past the ticket booth, you will see the tree top walking starting point, and it takes about 20 minutes to look around the entire course. The course is not long, but you can see the great view from high up and see various birds in nature. (It is not easy to find or see.) There is an observation deck at the midpoint of the course, and if you go up to this observation deck, you can see the sea across the forest. Overall, the great view and the unique experience of walking on a tree top are great, but since these courses are 25 meters high, the installed bridge shakes a little every time you walk, so if you have a fear of heights, I recommend you think again, and you do not necessarily need a reservation for this experience. There is no problem even if you just go without a reservation."
Edward Flores
"We had a great time here. Very quiet as out of weekend/holiday so cannot comment on how it would be the other side of that coin! Clearly signposted from the highway, Friendly and helpful staff. The walk was great, lots of education along the way if you can handle the heights for long enough! Climbing the tower was great too with exceptional views, we even timed it to watch some people do the Zipline (which looks awesome by the way, next time!!). Would very much come back and my girlfriend who has vertigo, enjoyed it too.... The walkway was as solid as you could hope and she appreciated conquering her fears enough to experience being within the tree canopy.
Well worth the trip and money"
Brendan Fisher
"We got a deal online, so ticket price was halved, so we did zipline & walkway combo. All the staff were SUPER helpful and friendly. Zipline was fun and felt very safe with all the checks ."
Carol Jopson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The West Coast Treetop Walk and Tower is located approximately 25km south of Hokitika on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. It's clearly signposted from the highway. Many visitors drive here as part of a South Island road trip.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the West Coast Treetop Walk and Tower for visitors.
While public transport options are limited on the West Coast, many tours and shuttle services operating between Hokitika and Franz Josef may be able to include a stop. It's best to check with local tour operators.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, reservations are not strictly necessary. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. However, booking online in advance might secure better deals.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on operating times before your visit.
Ticket prices vary for the Treetop Walk and the Zipline. Combo deals are often available, and checking online for discounts is a good idea.
The spiral viewing tower is typically included with your Treetop Walk admission, offering elevated perspectives. The zipline from the tower is an additional cost.
🎫 🥽 Onsite Experience
The Treetop Walk itself is about 20-45 minutes to complete, but you can spend more time enjoying the views and educational signage.
The walkway is elevated and can have a slight bounce. While some visitors with vertigo found it manageable, it's advisable to be prepared. The views from the tower are also significant.
The Zipline offers an adventurous ride from the viewing tower down to the entrance. It's a thrilling experience for adrenaline seekers.
Yes, there is educational information along the walkway about the local flora and fauna, including various birds you might spot.
While not guaranteed, you might spot various native birds in their natural habitat as you walk through the canopy.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site where you can enjoy refreshments and snacks after your walk.
The cafe typically offers a selection of light meals, snacks, and beverages. It's a good place to relax and refuel.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewing tower offers the most expansive panoramic shots. The elevated walkway also provides unique perspectives looking down into the forest canopy.
Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, be mindful of other visitors and ensure your equipment is secure, especially on the elevated walkway.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the mist in the forest, while afternoon light offers clear views towards the sea.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the zipline for older children or teenagers seeking an extra thrill. The cafe on-site is perfect for a family snack break. Remember to bring comfortable shoes and perhaps a light jacket, as West Coast weather can be unpredictable.
❤️ Couples and Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to observe the forest ecosystem from a different perspective. The chance to spot native birds and learn about the unique flora adds to the appeal. It's a peaceful escape that allows for quiet contemplation and appreciation of the natural world.
🏃♀️ Adventure Seekers
Even the treetop walk itself can be an adventure for those who enjoy heights, with the natural sway of the walkway adding an element of excitement. For those who conquer their fear, the reward is an unforgettable experience amidst the ancient trees.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Heights: The Treetop Walk Experience
The walk itself takes approximately 20 to 45 minutes, depending on your pace and how much time you spend observing the surroundings. Along the way, you'll find educational signage detailing the local flora and fauna, offering insights into the ancient forest. This makes it not just a scenic walk but also an informative one, highlighting the biodiversity of the West Coast.
For those seeking an even more elevated experience, the spiral viewing tower is a must-visit. Climbing to the top provides breathtaking panoramic views that extend across the forest and out to the sea. This vantage point is particularly stunning and offers fantastic photo opportunities. For the truly adventurous, the tower also serves as the launch point for an exhilarating flying fox zipline, adding an adrenaline-fueled element to the visit.
Beyond the Walk: Adventure and Amenities
For those looking to relax and refuel, an on-site cafe provides refreshments and light meals. It's a convenient spot to enjoy a coffee or snack while taking in the natural surroundings after your walk. The facility also includes a souvenir shop, allowing visitors to take home a memento of their unique experience.
The location itself, being about 25km south of Hokitika, makes it a convenient stop for those traveling along the West Coast. It's easily accessible from the main highway and offers a refreshing break with stunning natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit