West Coast
Hokitika Gorge
A magnificent river gorge renowned for its vivid, opaque turquoise water flowing through a granite canyon surrounded by native bush.
About this place
The striking blue-green colour of the Hokitika River is created by 'rock flour', which is finely ground glacial silt suspended in the water. This silt refracts light in a way that produces the milky, vibrant hue, creating a stark and beautiful contrast with the dark green of the surrounding forest.
A short walking track leads you through lush podocarp forest to a swing bridge and several viewing platforms. These offer superb vantage points over the gorge, providing fantastic opportunities to appreciate and photograph the surreal water colour.
Time needed
1-2 hours
Best time
The colour is most vivid on a sunny day following a period of dry weather.
Practical tips
- The water is at its most vibrant after a few days without rain, as heavy downpours can wash the glacial silt out and make the water grey.
- Pack insect repellent, as sandflies are common in the West Coast bush, especially during warmer months.
- Part of the access road to the gorge is unsealed, so it is advisable to drive slowly and with care.