WEST COAST
The sparsely-populated West Coast Region of the South Island borders the Tasman Sea. It is made up of three districts: Buller, Grey, and Westland. It is the region with the fewest residents, with a population is 31,400. The climate on the West Coast is notable for its high rainfall. Temperatures range between 12°C and 25°C in summer, and 5°C and 15°C in winter.
The cities of Westport, Hokitika, and Greymouth are the urban centers of the region. They were initially established around thriving coal, gold, greenstone, and mineral mining industries. The West Coast is known for the Punakaiki Rocks and Blowholes north of Greymouth, and glacier country south of Hokitika, towards Haast. The West Coast is a distinct microclimate due to its proximity to the Alps and the sea. Heavy rainfall on the unique geology of the area has created a wild and exotic environment that can be experienced through some of the many hikes and outdoor adventure tours. Main industries in the region include: mining, fisheries, forestry, tourism and agribusiness.
www.west-coast.co.nz/www.bullerdc.govt.nz/
www.punakaiki.co.nz/
www.discover-new-zealand.co.uk/greymouth/
www.westport.org.nz/
