Join me on a 4WD overlanding trip along New Zealand’s rugged West Coast.
In this adventure, I take my Land Rover Discovery down to meet up with two Aussie Land Rover Perenties visiting from across the ditch. We explore the historic Denniston Plateau, tackle Napoleon Hill, and I squeeze in a bit of solo exploring along the way too.
Close to Reefton township and a great base for exploring Victoria Forest Park walks. Try gold fossicking in the creek, or mountain bike the road.
A short little gravel road into the campsite - keep an eye out for the small ford next to the bridge.
A stunning gravel road through native West Coast forest, this road is well worth the drive out if that's your jam. From the end there are walks further into the forest.
A rough gravel track that takes you out to Jim's Flat hut and the Ahaura River. Stick to the route and don't tear up the access or grass around the hut.
This is a basic four-bunk hut in the Greymouth area.
Cruise through tunnels with rivers in them, cut for gold mining many moons ago through some of the most amazing scenery!
Give the land owners a call before heading in to confirm the track conditions - and then swing in to see them when you get there. Failure to do so may lead the track to being closed.
There is a $20 charge PER 4WD heading through, this is to help maintain the track and keep it open for everyone to enjoy. Generally there is a two vehicle minimum to ensure safety.
Landowner permission required, see contact details - do not head into this track without talking to them first.
There is a Camping Area on the Farm with wonderful views a long drop toilet, campfire area. Cost $10 per person per night. 4WD accessible only. Contact the landowners to book in.
Explore the old coal mining town of Denniston before heading through the hills towards New Creek. This route offers some stunning views whilst traversing some tricky terrain.
Best not tackled solo due to the two potentially tricky river crossings - with the Mackley being the one to note, depending on the flow and time of year you may need a winch and snorkel to successfully cross the river.
If you decide not to tackle the entire route the West Coast side offers stunning views and a fun cruise through the hills, as long as you turn back before getting too far into the track.
Another route through the stunning Denniston Plateau - it offers different views than the main track. Keep an eye out for coal seams on your way through.
A short climb up the side of some rocks to a trig lookout with views out over the plateau.
Head 1040m up into the Denniston Plateau and get a stunning looking look out over the West Coast. Best done on a clear day. Remember to stick to the track, the area has been mined significantly over the years.
The Instagram shot in New Zealand, the lookout up on the plateau let's you test your bravery and brakes. The rock steps leading up to the lookout aren't too challenging, but keeping your speed down is obviously important.
We highly recommend not driving or standing close to the edge, do so at your own risk
Camp amongst the kānuka forest just off SH7 between Hanmer Springs and Lewis Pass. Boyle Campsite is on the Te Araroa Trail and at the end of the five-day tramp on the St James Walkway.