Greymouth: The Heart of New Zealand's Wild West Coast

• HelloKia ora
  [key-ah or-ah]
• GoodbyeHaere rā
  [high-deh rah]
• YesĀe
  [eye]
• NoKāo
  [kah-oh]
• Please/You're welcomeWhakawhetai
  [fah-kah-feh-tie]
• Thank youMihi
  [mee-hee]
• Excuse me/SorryWhakama
  [fah-kah-mah]
• How are you?Kei te pēhea koe?
  [keh-ee teh peh-heh koh-eh]
• Fine. And you?Kei te pai. Ā, koe?
  [keh-ee teh pie. eye, koh-eh?]
• Do you speak English?He korero koe i te reo Pākehā?
  [heh koh-reh-roh koh-eh ee teh reh-oh pah-keh-hah?]
• I don't understandKāore au e mōhio
  [kah-oh-reh oh eh moh-hee-oh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe āwhina ki te titiro i te whārangi kai, tēnā
  [meh ah-fee-nah kee teh tee-tee-roh ee teh fah-rahn-gee kai, teh-nah]
• I don't eat meatKāore au e kai mīti
  [kah-oh-reh oh eh kai mee-tee]
• Cheers!Tūmatauenga!
  [too-mah-tow-eh-ngah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe āwhina ki te utu, tēnā
  [meh ah-fee-nah kee teh oo-too, teh-nah]

• Help!Āwhina!
  [ah-fee-nah]
• Go away!Haere atu!
  [high-deh ah-too]
• Call the Police!Karanga ki te Pirihimana!
  [kah-rah-ngah kee teh pee-ree-hee-mah-nah]
• Call a doctor!Karanga ki te Tohunga!
  [kah-rah-ngah kee teh tow-hoo-ngah]
• I'm lostI te hē au
  [ee teh heh oh]
• I'm illMate au
  [mah-teh oh]

• I'd like to buy...Me āwhina ki te hoko...
  [meh ah-fee-nah kee teh hoh-koh]
• I'm just lookingKei te titiro tonu au
  [keh-ee teh tee-tee-roh tow-noo oh]
• How much is it?He aha te utu?
  [heh ah-hah teh oo-too]
• That's too expensiveHe nui rawa te utu
  [heh new-ee rah-wah teh oo-too]
• Can you lower the price?Ka taea e koe te whakaiti i te utu?
  [kah teh-ah eh koh-eh teh fah-kai-tee ee teh oo-too]

• What time is it?He aha te wā?
  [heh ah-hah teh wah]
• It's one o'clockKotahi noa iho
  [koh-tah-hee noh-ah ee-hoh]
• Half past (10)I te hāora tekau
  [ee teh hah-oh-rah teh-kow]
• MorningAta
  [ah-tah]
• AfternoonAhiahi
  [ah-hee-ah-hee]
• EveningPō
  [poh]
• YesterdayInāianei
  [ee-nah-ee-ah-neh-ee]
• TodayTēnei rā
  [teh-neh-ee rah]
• TomorrowĀpōpō
  [ah-poh-poh]
• 1Tahi
  [tah-hee]
• 2Rua
  [roo-ah]
• 3Toru
  [toh-roo]
• 4Whā
  [fah]
• 5Rima
  [ree-mah]
• 6Ono
  [oh-noh]
• 7Whitu
  [fee-too]
• 8Waru
  [wah-roo]
• 9Iwa
  [ee-wah]
• 10Tekau
  [teh-kow]

• Where's a/the...?Kei hea te...?
  [keh-ee heh-ah teh]
• What's the address?He aha te wāhitau?
  [heh ah-hah teh wah-hee-tow]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ka taea e koe te whakaatu i ahau (i te mahere)?
  [kah teh-ah eh koh-eh teh fah-kah-ah-too ee ah-how (ee teh mah-heh-reh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Āhea te āhua o te (pahi) whakamua?
  [ah-heh-ah teh ah-hoo-ah oh teh pah-hee fah-kah-moo-ah]
• A ticket (to ....)He tiki (ki ...)
  [heh tee-kee kee]

Long before European settlers arrived, the area around Greymouth was inhabited by the Maori people, primarily the Ngāi Tahu tribe. The region was rich in resources such as pounamu (greenstone), which was highly valued for making tools and ornaments. The Maori name for the area is Māwhera, meaning 'wide spread river mouth', highlighting the significance of the Grey River in their daily lives and culture.

In the early 19th century, European explorers and traders began to visit the West Coast of New Zealand. One notable explorer was Thomas Brunner, who, in the 1840s, undertook a series of arduous journeys through the region. His reports of coal and gold sparked interest and eventual European settlement. The town of Greymouth itself is named after Sir George Grey, the Governor of New Zealand during that period.

Greymouth's history is deeply intertwined with the gold rush of the 1860s. The discovery of gold in the nearby rivers and streams led to a massive influx of prospectors, turning the area into a bustling frontier town almost overnight. Greymouth quickly developed into a commercial hub, with hotels, stores, and other establishments springing up to serve the needs of the miners. The gold rush era left a lasting legacy, shaping the town's infrastructure and economy.

Following the gold rush, coal mining became the dominant industry in Greymouth. The vast coal seams in the region attracted workers and investment, leading to the establishment of numerous mines and associated industries. The town's port facilities were expanded to handle the export of coal, and the arrival of the railway in the late 19th century further boosted the local economy. Greymouth's development during this period was marked by industrial growth and a diverse population of miners and their families.

One of the darkest chapters in Greymouth's history is the Brunner Mine Disaster of 1896. On March 26th, an explosion in the Brunner coal mine, located just a short distance from Greymouth, resulted in the deaths of 65 miners. The disaster remains one of New Zealand's worst industrial accidents and had a profound impact on the local community. Memorials and museums in the area today commemorate the lives lost and highlight the importance of mine safety.

Greymouth has a history of significant flooding, with the Grey River frequently overflowing its banks. Major floods in 1936 and 1988 caused extensive damage to property and infrastructure, prompting efforts to improve flood defenses. The construction of floodwalls and other protective measures has since helped to mitigate the impact of flooding, but the events remain a testament to the town's resilience and determination in the face of natural disasters.

Today, Greymouth is a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The town celebrates its rich cultural heritage through various festivals and events, such as the annual Greymouth Heritage Festival, which showcases local history, crafts, and traditions. The West Coast Wilderness Trail and other outdoor attractions draw visitors to the natural beauty of the region, while the local museums and galleries offer insights into the town's storied past. Greymouth's vibrant community continues to honor its history while looking towards the future.

Greymouth is located on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. The nearest international airport is Christchurch International Airport, approximately 240 kilometers away. From Christchurch, you can take a scenic train ride on the TranzAlpine, which takes about 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive via State Highway 73, which offers stunning views of the Southern Alps. There are also bus services available from Christchurch and other major cities in New Zealand.

Greymouth is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis and shuttle services are available. There is a bus service that connects Greymouth with nearby towns and attractions. Renting a car is a convenient option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas, including the beautiful West Coast region. Bicycles can also be rented for those who prefer a more eco-friendly mode of transportation.

The official currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Greymouth, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the town. It's a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit more remote areas where card payments might not be accepted.

Greymouth is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any place, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Greymouth does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 111 for immediate assistance. Greymouth has a local police station and medical facilities, including a hospital (Grey Base Hospital). It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Waterproof clothing is advisable due to frequent rain. Avoid overly casual attire in fine dining establishments. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, although New Zealand is a secular country. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Keep noise to a minimum and don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'kia ora'. A handshake is also common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as whitebait fritters and pāua. Don't tip excessively, as tipping is not customary in New Zealand.

To experience Greymouth like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with locals, especially in pubs and cafes, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. For a unique experience, take a walk along the floodwall for stunning views of the Grey River and the Tasman Sea.