Discover the Enchanting Beauty of Ōkārito
Experience the serene beauty of Ōkārito, a hidden gem on New Zealand's West Coast, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Nestled on New Zealand's breathtaking West Coast, Ōkārito is a picturesque coastal village renowned for its stunning scenery, rich wildlife, and abundant outdoor activities. This hidden gem offers a perfect escape for tourists seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Ōkārito
- Ōkārito, NZ
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography and wildlife viewing.
- Bring binoculars to enhance your birdwatching experience at the Ōkārito Lagoon.
- Check local weather conditions before planning outdoor activities, as they can change rapidly.
- Consider taking a guided kayak tour for an informative and safe experience on the lagoon.
- Don’t miss the chance to interact with locals and learn about the village's history and culture.
Getting There
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Car
From the center of Fox Glacier, head south on State Highway 6 (SH6) towards Haast. Continue along SH6 for approximately 25 kilometers. Keep an eye out for the signs directing you to Ōkārito. Turn left onto Ōkārito Road. Follow this road for about 12 kilometers until you reach the town of Ōkārito. The destination will be on your left, just off the main road.
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Public Transportation
From the Fox Glacier township, you will need to take a bus service that operates towards Ōkārito. Check the local bus schedule for the specific times of departure. The bus will take you along State Highway 6. Get off at the Ōkārito stop. Once you arrive, walk towards the main area of Ōkārito, which is just a short walk from the bus stop.
Discover more about Ōkārito
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
18.3 km
Discover the gateway to New Zealand's breathtaking glaciers at Glacier Country Heliport Car Park, your starting point for unforgettable adventures.
Victoria Falls
31.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Victoria Falls, a stunning natural wonder in New Zealand's West Coast that captivates all who visit.
Empress Hut
41.4 km
Experience the serenity of Empress Hut, a mountain cabin immersed in the stunning landscapes of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
42.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak in the stunning Southern Alps.
Ball Hut
44.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park at Ball Hut, your perfect mountain retreat in New Zealand.
Copland Shelter
48.2 km
Experience the tranquility of Copland Shelter, a mountain cabin in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by stunning alpine landscapes.
Douglas Rock Hut
49.1 km
Experience the beauty of New Zealand's wilderness at Douglas Rock Hut in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, your perfect outdoor retreat.
Hooker Lake
50.7 km
Explore the stunning Hooker Lake, a glacial gem in Canterbury, surrounded by majestic peaks and vibrant landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Sefton Bivouac
52.1 km
Experience the beauty of the Southern Alps at Sefton Bivouac, a cozy mountain cabin perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Tasman Glacier Car Park
52.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Tasman Glacier Car Park in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.
The Second Swing Bridge
53.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Second Swing Bridge in Mount Cook National Park, where stunning landscapes and adventure await at every turn.
Mueller Lake
53.8 km
Explore Mueller Lake: A hidden gem in Canterbury, New Zealand, where breathtaking views and serene landscapes await every traveler.
White Horse Hill Campground
55.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of White Horse Hill Campground in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Mt Cook Chalets
56.8 km
Discover breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Mt Cook Chalets, your cozy retreat in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
56.9 km
Discover the Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Okarito Trig Walk
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Okarito Trig Walk, a must-see for nature lovers with stunning views of the lagoon and Southern Alps.
Okarito Kayaks
0.4 km
Discover the stunning beauty of New Zealand's Okarito Lagoon with Okarito Kayaks—an unforgettable outdoor adventure awaits.
Okarito Lagoon Boat House
0.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Okarito Lagoon at the Boat House, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Okarito Wharf Building
0.6 km
Explore the historical significance and scenic beauty of Okarito Wharf Building in New Zealand's captivating West Coast region.
Okarito Beach
0.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of Ōkārito Beach - a hidden paradise for hiking and nature lovers in New Zealand.
Okarito River
6.4 km
Discover the enchanting Okarito River, a serene retreat in New Zealand's West Coast, ideal for kayaking, birdwatching, and nature walks.
Ōkārito Lagoon
6.7 km
Explore the enchanting Ōkārito Lagoon, a paradise for nature lovers on New Zealand's stunning West Coast, rich in wildlife and breathtaking scenery.
Lake Mapourika Recreational Area
12.4 km
Experience the serene landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures at Lake Mapourika Recreational Area in New Zealand.
White Heron Sanctuary Tours
16.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of New Zealand's only white heron nesting site at the breathtaking White Heron Sanctuary Tours.
docherty creek
17.1 km
Experience the natural beauty of Docherty Creek, a tranquil escape in Franz Josef, New Zealand, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
FRANZ JOSEF
17.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Franz Josef, a premier hiking area in New Zealand renowned for its stunning glacier views and vibrant nature.
Skydive Franz
17.9 km
Discover the ultimate adventure at Skydive Franz, where breathtaking views and thrilling descents create unforgettable memories in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre
17.9 km
Discover the natural beauty of Westland Tai Poutini National Park at its Visitor Centre, your gateway to adventure and exploration.
Franz Josef Glacier Guides
18.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Franz Josef Glacier, a must-visit destination in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Glacier Helicopters Franz Josef Glacier
18.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier with unforgettable aerial views from Glacier Helicopters.
Essential places to dine
King Tiger
18.0 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
Rainforest Retreat
18.1 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
Monsoon Restaurant
18.1 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
18.3 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
The Landing Restaurant & Bar
18.3 km
Experience the best of New Zealand's cuisine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef – where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views.
SnakeBite Brewery
18.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors at SnakeBite Brewery in Franz Josef - where Asian cuisine meets local brews in a charming setting.
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
18.5 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
Breakfast Restaurant
29.3 km
Experience a delightful breakfast at this cozy restaurant in Fox Glacier, offering delicious dishes and warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
29.3 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
29.3 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine at Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar in Fox Glacier—where every meal is a celebration of New Zealand's finest flavors.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
29.3 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
The Last Kitchen
29.4 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
High Peaks Hotel
29.6 km
Experience comfort and adventure at High Peaks Hotel in Fox Glacier – your gateway to breathtaking natural beauty and memorable dining.
Alpine Restaurant
56.9 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
57.3 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Okarito Sandfly Repellent
0.3 km
Discover the best insect repellent at Okarito Sandfly Repellent, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience on New Zealand's stunning West Coast.
Real Tin Toys
16.0 km
Explore the enchanting world of handcrafted tin toys at Real Tin Toys in Franz Josef, a delightful stop for collectors and families.
Packraft New Zealand
16.2 km
Embark on an unforgettable packrafting adventure in Franz Josef, New Zealand. Gear up at Packraft New Zealand for the ultimate outdoor experience.
Te Koha Gallery - Jade Carving and Gem Stones
17.4 km
Explore the art of jade carving and discover stunning gem stones at Te Koha Gallery in Franz Josef, New Zealand.
William Apiaries (Honey)
17.9 km
Discover the sweet taste of New Zealand at William Apiaries, your destination for exquisite local honey and bee products in Franz Josef.
The Glacier Shop
18.3 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at The Glacier Shop in Franz Josef, capturing the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty.
Fern Grove Gift & Design
18.4 km
Explore Fern Grove Gift & Design for unique NZ souvenirs, stylish apparel, and local treasures in the heart of Franz Josef.
Four Square Franz Josef
18.4 km
Visit Four Square Franz Josef for a unique grocery shopping experience, and stock up on local goods before exploring stunning glaciers and rainforests.
Blucod
18.4 km
Discover the freshest seafood at Blucod in Franz Josef, where quality meets the beauty of New Zealand's coast.
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
22.2 km
Experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning glacier landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
29.3 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon, a must-visit restaurant in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering delicious local cuisine.
Cafe Nevé
29.3 km
Discover Café Nevé in Fox Glacier for a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning views, perfect for a relaxing break in nature.
EuniQ Patchwork
29.3 km
Discover the art of quilting at EuniQ Patchwork, the premier quilt shop in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering a rich selection of fabrics and crafting supplies.
On the Spot Fox Glacier
29.3 km
Experience the convenience of On the Spot Fox Glacier, your go-to store for snacks, drinks, and local treasures in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Experience Fox Glacier
29.3 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Moa Bar
18.2 km
Discover the warmth and hospitality of Moa Bar, a unique bar experience in the heart of Franz Josef, offering local flavors and stunning views.
The Westhaven Motel
29.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at The Westhaven Motel, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fox Glacier.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
29.3 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Rainforest Motel
29.3 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
29.4 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand at Fox Glacier Jade Hotel, your cozy retreat amidst stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Sunset Motel
29.4 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Bella Vista Fox Glacier
29.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
Snowline Bar
56.9 km
Unwind at Snowline Bar in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park; a serene spot for drinks and breathtaking views amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
59.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook at the NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge, an alpine retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Woodstock Hotel
85.1 km
Experience the best of local cuisine and craft brews at the Woodstock Hotel, a cozy bar and grill nestled in the heart of New Zealand's scenic landscape.
Railway Hotel
86.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of the Railway Hotel in Hokitika, a perfect spot for drinks, dining, and local entertainment.
Kaniere Hotel
86.5 km
Experience the quirky charm and warm hospitality of Kaniere Hotel, the local pub with a welcoming ambiance perfect for tourists.
