Restaurants & Bars
Hokitika boasts a diverse selection of restaurants and bars that cater to various tastes. Notable spots include Stations Inn, Fat Pipi Pizza, Thatcher & Small, The Hoki Boat Shed Café, Woodstock Hotel.
Hokitika Gorge
Follow an easy forest trail to a surreal symphony of vibrant turquoise waters amid lush green forest and pure white limestone cliffs — a photographer’s dream setting. A scenic 1-hour loop leads to breathtaking views of the turquoise gorge and a swing bridge.
Trails & Tracks
Hokitika offers a variety of outdoor tracks and trails perfect for exploring its natural beauty: Hokitika Gorge, Lake Kaniere Walks, West Coast Wilderness Trail, and Blue Spur Bushwalk. These tracks highlight the area’s stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, making Hokitika a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Regent Theatre
Movie enthusiasts can catch films at the historic Regent Theatre, a beautifully refurbished Art Deco venue that features the latest movies with modern digital projection and surround sound. It’s a great spot not just for films but also for live shows and community events.
Water Sport
Hokitika offers a range of water sports perfect for adventure seekers. Visitors can kayak on Mahinapua Lake and enjoy scenic boat cruises through picturesque waterways. Nearby Lake Kaniere is perfect for swimming and fishing, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities.
Beach
Hokitika Beach is a beautiful, rugged coastline known for its abundant driftwood, which locals and visitors use to create unique sculptures. It’s an ideal spot for long walks and enjoying stunning views over the Tasman Sea, especially at sunset.
Education
Hokitika boasts a robust education system that includes several primary schools and one secondary school: Hokitika Primary School, St. Mary’s School, Kokatahi-Kowhitirangi School, and Westland High School. These institutions foster a supportive community while delivering quality education and a range of extracurricular activities for students.
Town Center
Hokitika features a variety of shops including New World for groceries, which offers a bakery and deli, and Traditional Jade Co. for authentic pounamu carvings. The town boasts unique gift shops, clothing boutiques, and art galleries, reflecting its vibrant local culture.
Airport
Hokitika Airport is the regional hub for the West Coast, offering daily flights to Christchurch and making it easy for travelers to explore the area’s natural beauty. Additionally, scenic flights provide views of the Southern Alps and popular attractions like the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers.
Parks & Playgrounds
Hokitika features several parks and playgrounds ideal for families, including: Cass Square, Hokitika River Mouth, Westland Recreation Centre, and Mahinapua Park. These locations provide excellent opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation in beautiful surroundings.
