The Serene Beauty of Okarito River
Discover the enchanting Okarito River, a serene retreat in New Zealand's West Coast, ideal for kayaking, birdwatching, and nature walks.
Okarito River, nestled in New Zealand's stunning West Coast, is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its crystal-clear waters winding through lush landscapes, it offers a perfect backdrop for kayaking, birdwatching, and peaceful strolls along its banks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene beauty of this hidden gem, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region.
A brief summary to Okarito River
- West Coast, NZ
Local tips
- Bring your binoculars for birdwatching; the area is rich in birdlife.
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light and wildlife sightings.
- Consider joining a guided kayak tour for a unique perspective of the river.
- Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to hike the trails along the river.
Getting There
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Car
To reach Okarito River from Fox Glacier by car, start by heading southeast on State Highway 6 (SH6). Drive approximately 25 kilometers (about 30 minutes). You will pass through beautiful scenery, including lush forests and mountain views. Look for the signs directing you to Okarito; you will take a left turn onto Okarito Road. Follow Okarito Road for about 10 kilometers until you reach the Okarito township. Once in Okarito, follow the signs to the river access points.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, check with local bus services for routes from Fox Glacier to Okarito. The bus may not run frequently, so plan ahead. Once you arrive in Okarito, you can walk to the river access points, which are located within the township. The walk should take you around 10-15 minutes depending on your exact drop-off point.
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Bicycle
For an adventurous option, you can rent a bicycle in Fox Glacier and cycle to Okarito River. Follow the same route as you would by car, taking SH6 southeast. The bike ride is approximately 30 kilometers one way and will take about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your fitness level. Ensure your bike is equipped with a good lock and carry water and snacks for the journey.
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Walking
If you're feeling adventurous and enjoy long walks, you could hike to Okarito River. The distance is roughly 30 kilometers, which would take approximately 8-10 hours. This is a challenging trek and requires good physical fitness, plenty of water, and snacks. Start early in the day and consider arranging for a pickup from Okarito at the end of your journey.
Discover more about Okarito River
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
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Victoria Falls
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Empress Hut
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Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
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Ball Hut
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Copland Shelter
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Douglas Rock Hut
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Hooker Lake
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Tasman Glacier Car Park
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Sefton Bivouac
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The Second Swing Bridge
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Mueller Lake
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White Horse Hill Campground
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Mt Cook Chalets
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Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
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Unmissable attractions to see
Okarito Wharf Building
6.1 km
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Okarito Lagoon Boat House
6.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Okarito Lagoon at the Boat House, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Okarito Kayaks
6.2 km
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Okarito Trig Walk
6.4 km
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Ōkārito
6.4 km
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Okarito Beach
6.9 km
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Ōkārito Lagoon
7.2 km
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Lake Mapourika Recreational Area
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White Heron Sanctuary Tours
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FRANZ JOSEF
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Scenic Lookout
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Skydive Franz
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Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre
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Franz Josef Glacier Guides
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Callery Gorge Walk
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Essential places to dine
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Rainforest Retreat
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Monsoon Restaurant
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Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
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The Landing Restaurant & Bar
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SnakeBite Brewery
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Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
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The White Pub Cafe & Bar
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Breakfast Restaurant
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Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
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Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
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The Last Kitchen
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High Peaks Hotel
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Alpine Restaurant
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Chamois Bar & Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Okarito Sandfly Repellent
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Real Tin Toys
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Packraft New Zealand
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The Glacier Shop
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Fern Grove Gift & Design
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Four Square Franz Josef
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Blucod
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Te Koha Gallery - Jade Carving and Gem Stones
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William Apiaries (Honey)
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Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
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Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
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Cafe Nevé
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On the Spot Fox Glacier
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Experience Fox Glacier
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Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
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The Westhaven Motel
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Rainforest Motel
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Sunset Motel
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Snowline Bar
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NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
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Woodstock Hotel
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Railway Hotel
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Kaniere Hotel
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Experience the quirky charm and warm hospitality of Kaniere Hotel, the local pub with a welcoming ambiance perfect for tourists.
