COVER - InsIde Life on the Coast hard to beat | Why moving West makes sense - Grey District Council
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west
A NZME Commercial Publication
coast
work | l ive | pl ay
COVER
Inside Life on the Coast hard to beat | Why moving West makes sense
west coast
work | live | play 3
Life on the Coast hard to beat ......................................4
West Coast’s Pioneering Spirit lives on .........................5
The little region that can ...............................................6
Working from home ......................................................7
Innovation - A Coast speciality ......................................8
Greymouth Town Square ...............................................9
A Winter Wonderland ..................................................10
Karamea’s untamed wilderness ...................................11
Blackball - Set to shine ................................................13
Moving West makes sense ..........................................14
Hokitika, a cool little town ...........................................14
Cover - Hokitika Gorge, Photo: Stewart Nimmo
Editor Greg Fleming | Design Courtney Wenzlick | For Development West Coast Aaron Rees
Advertising Kipp O’Donnell | kipp.odonnell@nzme.co.nz | West Coast is a NZME commercial publication
Locally owned family business with over 60
years' combined experience. We have over
120 listings on the Coast from residential,
lifestyle to rural and business.
"Come on down, check out the unbelievable
prices, the great lifestyle and environment."
4 west coast
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Life on
the Coast
hard to
beat
The West Coast offers a backyard of exciting weekend activities, and you’ll have more time and money to enjoy it. Photo: Stewart Nimmo. Location: Punakaiki
The days of buying a first home with a Coast, where traffic jams are
unheard of, that extra time could
quarter-acre section may seem a long way be spent with your family enjoying
the untamed natural wilderness on
out of reach for city-dwellers in Auckland. your doorstep.
The Coast is the perfect place
With median house prices over a million to bring up children. You’ll not
only be able to spend more time
dollars the dream of getting on the property with them but also have more
disposable income to spend on
ladder must feel exactly like that – a dream their upbringing. They’ll grow up
surrounded by grass rather than
N
asphalt, and the sound of birds
o wonder 33,000 people The Coast welcomes instead of traffic.
left Auckland in the businesses And education is a key focus on
four years to 2017, and The digital age means the the Coast. Good high schools in
many of them have days of needing an office in a Westport, Greymouth and Hokitika
found welcoming and supportive big city are long gone. Today provide the region’s young adults
communities in the bustling small West Coast businesses are busy with stepping stones to a profitable
towns that dot the landscape on leveraging digital technologies working life, and the Greymouth-
the West Coast of the South Island. to be competitive in international based Tai Poutini Polytechnic offers
No concrete jungle. No traffic markets. a wide range of technical study
jams. No motorway congestion. “Business opportunities are options.
These are just some of the aplenty here. In addition to the
advantages of living on the West new industries digital technologies Innovation rules
Coast. And then there’s the are enabling, the region has The West Coast business
wonderful natural landscape, high thriving sectors in manufacturing community has always been
speed internet, close proximity to and agribusiness, and so much pioneering, leveraging the latest
two airports and excellent roads more,” says Development West technologies to open up new
Photo: Stewart Nimmo. Location: Fox Glacier ensuring those who live and work Coast (DWC) chief executive Chris opportunities, whether that was
here are easily connected to clients Mackenzie. during the gold rush of the 1800s
and customers around the globe. “Thanks to the region’s natural or the present day block chain
Indeed Westport has more beauty and rich history, it is one mining.
sunshine hours than most of of the fastest-growing tourist There is a unique balance on the
Auckland and that’s just as well areas in New Zealand with all the West Coast however. The acute
given the plethora of outdoor opportunities that provides.” awareness of being future-focused
pursuits the region has to offer – If you want a clean start in a is matched with the appreciation of
from hiking and cycling to fishing, new location and the opportunity the region’s rich history. Living and
hunting, water skiing and boating. to start up a new business of your working on the West Coast, it is
The West Coast offers a backyard own, the business services on difficult to ignore the stories of the
of exciting weekend activities, and offer from regional development founding fathers - true pioneers
you’ll have more time and money organisation Development West and trail blazers. The resilient
to enjoy it. Coast are here to support you. nature of Coasters transcends
Yes Auckland incomes may be The employment market is also the generations, making for a
high compared to most parts of buoyant. Unemployment levels community of hard workers. And
the country, but that comes with far are incredibly low on the Coast, at they are a friendly bunch, just pop
more financial pressure. Auckland only 3.3 per cent they are far below into one of the region’s many cafes
house prices are over 15 times rates in Auckland. This means for a coffee and a yarn, and it won’t
that of annual earnings, compare business owners are always on the be too long before you’ll feel at
that to the West Coast where the lookout for skilled staff. home.
median house price hovers around That’s why a recent opinion
$200,000 - not even four times Leave the traffic and bring survey by DWC found 70 per cent
average annual earnings. If you buy the family of local businesses rated quality
on the Coast your mortgage will be Aucklanders on average waste of life here as an advantage over
smaller, you’ll be debt free faster 80 hours annually stuck in traffic any other region in New Zealand.
and have more disposable income jams - essentially two unpaid Time for a change? Why don’t you
Photo: Stewart Nimmo. Location: Punakaiki to spend on what you want in life. working weeks a year. On the join us!
west coast
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West Coast’s
pioneering
spirit lives on
(Above) Through the Reefton ‘Shop Front’ project business owners were able to renovate their shop
fronts in a heritage style (Inset) Community groups have worked hard to bring back the distinctive
character of Reefton’s heritage shop buildings.
-
The West Coast has always attracted pioneering people – from Maori Paul Thomas, joint owner of the create a destination for visitors and
Broadway Tearooms & Bakery, who to develop the town economically.
trading pounamu to those who flocked here during the goldrush days has utilised a range of DWC services.
Paul is one of the many
“The investment by DWC
into Reefton through the shop
B
passionate people involved in the front project was an innovative
ack in 1867 Wellington’s selling your home and moving employment opportunities and revitalisation of the small West model, a leap of faith at the time
postmaster got a promotion. to another part of the country, generating economic benefits for Coast town of Reefton. Over the for community-led economic
Where did this step up in his without the comfort of your current the entire region. years community groups have development, a leap of faith at the
career take him? To the West networks. A move to the West Coast from worked hard to bring back the time for the investment made, but
Coast of course - the Charleston But it doesn’t have to be an a city as large as Auckland would distinctive character of the town’s it has created immeasurable results
Post office. The Coast has always insurmountable challenge. present many opportunities – first heritage shop buildings, many of that have ensured the town’s long-
been the place to be, and Coasters The work-life balance the West and foremost for Auckland home which reflected their goldfields term sustainability,” Paul says.
have always been trailblazers. Coast offers comes with the owners, the difference in purchasing character from the 1870s but “Local people now have great
In 1888 Reefton was the first town added bonus of support from an power for a home on the Coast had been modified over time to pride in their place. Visitors stream
in the Southern Hemisphere to get organisation specifically set up to would be a significant financial compromise their appearance. in, people desire to come and live
electricity, beating London and New promote employment and economic advantage. Born from this vision was the here, and people are upbeat about
York. In 1934 New Zealand’s first benefits in the region. So with cash in hand and a Reefton ‘Shop Front’ project, where the town’s economy.”
scheduled air service began from Development West Coast (DWC) business dream to pursue, tapping DWC provided a commercial loan to And that is exactly what DWC’s
Hokitika. was established in 2001 with the into the support of DWC in setting a community-led group, who were support is for – assisting our
Gold mining may have shifted mandate to manage, invest and up and getting that new business then able to on lend to shop owners present-day pioneers and ensuring
to blockchain mining, but the distribute income from a $92m fund off the ground is a no-brainer. The at very reasonable rates, enabling the West Coast’s economy thrives.
pioneering spirit remains. People allocated by the Government. This DWC team offers a wide range business owners to renovate their So if you have always wanted to
are still moving to the Coast for the fund was an adjustment package for of business services, commercial shop fronts in a heritage style. leave the daily grind behind, why
opportunities this amazing region the loss of indigenous forestry and finance and other assistance to help According to Paul, the idea of the not consider the West Coast. With
offers. the privatisation of infrastructure on businesses grow. Reefton Shop Front project was to its lifestyle options, and business
Picking up and starting afresh in the West Coast in the late 1990s. Since 2001 many West Coast emphasise Reefton’s distinctiveness; development support and digital
a new town may feel like a scary DWC works hard for the businesses have accessed make it stand out from other towns, accessibility, this exciting, growing
prospect. Especially if that means community, promoting sustainable assistance from DWC. This includes to engender pride from locals, to region has something for everyone.
Do you want the career but also the lifestyle? Hard day at the office? Time for a change?
Buller Electricity have positions available for: Do you want to live in the most scenic part of the Country? Do you want to own your own slice of paradise at a
reasonable price? Do you want to spend more time at home and less on a commute?
• Registered Line Mechanics • Electrical Engineer
How about a change of lifestyle – come to the Buller area and enjoy the lifestyle which will be at your very
Electro Services have position available for Electricians/Refrigeration Technicians
affordable doorstep. Are you into tramping, fishing, hunting, sport and recreation, are you after more time Electro Services is a highly motivated company with the ambition to deliver a great work environment offering
for you or your family. If cycling is your thing, the Old Ghost Road track is in our backyard. work and personal life balance, we will build an exciting position around your skills, and help you to develop
If this sounds exciting and you’ve got what it takes Buller Electricity want to talk to you. these skills in a technically diverse industry. www.electroservices.co.nz
Please apply to Buller Electricity Limited PO Box 243 Westport 7866 Please apply to Darren Stevenson (Business Manager)
Email to: info@bullernetwork.co.nz darrens@electroservices.co.nz
6 west coast
work | live | play
THE
Little Region
THAT CAN
On the Coast it’s easy to get the work/life balance right. Photo: Stephen Roberts
The days of needing an office “in the city” are long gone and many sustainable employment.
The assistance the agency gives
Coast. Auckland’s median house
price is around a million dollars.
companies are eyeing the regions as workers seek cheaper housing, ranges from commercial finance In comparison, on the West Coast
to business support and capability the quarter-acre section is still a
family friendly lifestyles and that feel of New Zealand as it used to be development through business reachable reality. Median house
mentoring, workshops and training prices hover around $200,000 and
A
dvances in technology sitting back and watching a glorious assistance. each window is likely to offer a view
now allow people to live sunset. “The West Coast is home of magnificent mountains, primeval
wherever they want and “The West Coast is no concrete to thriving industries in IT, forest, deep and silent rivers and
many are choosing to jungle,” says Development Those who live manufacturing, agribusiness and dramatic coastlines.
base themselves amongst the truly West Coast chief executive Chris so much more,” Mackenzie says. This is a region that boasts
stunning landscapes of the West Mackenzie. “There are no traffic and work here are “Thanks to the region’s natural some of the New Zealand’s most
Coast. And work’s abundant here jams, no motorway congestion - but beauty and rich history, it is one of stunning landscapes: a drive up the
with unemployment levels on the nor is it isolated. It has high speed easily connected the fastest-growing tourist areas in coast towards the world-famous
New Zealand.” Punakaiki Rocks on the edge of the
West Coast well below the New
Zealand average, at only 3.3 per
internet, two airports and good
roads and rail. Those who live and
to their clients and Today digital technologies are magnificent Paparoa Regional Park
cent. West Coast business owners
are always on the lookout for skilled
work here are easily connected to
their clients and customers around
customers around allowing the Little Region That Can
to be competitive in international
will offer a different perspective and
mood every time.
staff. the country and the world.” the country and markets: software for many leading Life is simpler on the West Coast
Data from Statistics NZ shows Development West Coast works gaming companies such as EA and and it is easy to see why people
Aucklanders spend about 450 hours closely with local and central the world. Disney started here, and can-do love to live and work here, says
a year in a car. Why waste your life government, other economic locals are carving out niches for Mackenzie:
stuck in the traffic when instead that development organisations, and successful online businesses. “You can live by the sea and still
valuable time could be spent on the business support providers, to Development West Coast You don’t need to be a maths have views of the snow-covered
chief executive Chris Mackenzie
West Coast with your family cycling, encourage and support business to wizard to see the advantages of alps – with thriving cafes just a walk
fishing, hiking, surfing – or just set up in the region and promote moving from a big city to the West away.”
west coast
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Photo: Stewart Nimmo. Location: Lake Matheson
Advances in digital technologies and an inspiring
WORKING backyard are making the West Coast a hub for creative
FROM
artisans. Nestled between the snow-capped Southern Alps
and the Tasman Sea, the West Coast is an area renowned
for its inspirational natural environment
HOME “From pounamu carvers to booker prize winning authors, the West Coast landscape has long attracted
and inspired creative people,” says Development West Coast chief executive Chris Mackenzie.
“Advances in digital technologies are opening new opportunities, enabling people to live where they
want, and do business with the world. This has led to a new generation of pioneering artisans who have
chosen to live on the Coast for the lifestyle, while selling their products online to wider markets,” he says.
Tessa Lindsay from www.nuzzlebaby.co.nz Eczema salve from www.bluespurmilkandhoney.com Kira Birchfield from www.kirabirchfieldjeweller.co.nz
Nuzzle Blue Spur Milk Kira Birchfield
Baby and Honey Jeweller
Tessa Lindsay’s business, Nuzzle Baby, is a perfect example that Sick of the city-life, Miriam Rees and her family moved to After nine years away travelling and studying, Kira Birchfield
geography is no-longer a barrier to doing business, especially the West Coast. They eventually purchased a lifestyle block moved back to the West Coast with her husband. From
when talent, passion and the internet are involved. just outside of Hokitika in Blue Spur. her home workshop south of Hokitika, she has setup a new
Tessa and her husband were born and bred in Queenstown but Their property soon became home to an array of animals: business – Kira Birchfield Jeweller.
were looking for a change. When her sister-in-law encouraged goats, sheep, ducks, geese, chickens, bees and their dog “My pieces reflect my connection to this unique landscape.
them to move to Westport they jumped at the opportunity. Zeb. I immerse myself in the West Coast surroundings – the
In 2014 they welcomed their first child, who was born with Miriam became busy taking up new hobbies. She learnt rugged landscapes create incredible silhouettes, patterns,
severe breathing and feeding issues. beekeeping and would use her goat’s milk to make cheese inspiration!” Kira says.
“I wanted to make sure that what he played with was safe and and soap. “I am passionate about the art of the hand-made. I melt,
enjoyable for him, organic and free from toxins, so it wouldn’t She started experimenting, adding honey from her hives form, roll, drill and polish precious materials to make unique
affect his breathing at all,” she says. to her goat’s milk soap and making solid hand lotion bars artworks. Making work that is connected to the West Coast
Tessa started designing products that would be safe, engaging using her beeswax. With the help of her goats and bees, is important to me.
and nurturing for her son. Seeing the enjoyment he was she found she could craft many different natural products “Having the freedom to work from home with such inspiring
getting laid the seeds for her business, Nuzzle Baby. and so her business ‘Blue Spur Milk and Honey’ was born. surroundings is something I am grateful for. Being able to
Tessa began making eco-friendly baby toys while her son was Miriam now handcrafts a range of rustic beauty products head out for a morning horse ride along the beach before
sleeping and selling them online. that encapsulate the untamed natural wilderness heading into my workshop is just magic,” Kira says.
“Being an online business means you can live wherever you she is surrounded by. She avoids plastics, only using According to Chris Mackenzie, the ability of these artisans,
love and for us that’s right here in Westport. We want to bring environmentally friendly packaging. and others like them, to carve out their own niches is
our children up in a relaxed small-town environment. And “There’s no point making a beautiful natural product and a testament to the West Coast’s appeal as a digitally
being able to draw inspiration from the nature and landscape then wrapping it in plastic! The charm of the West Coast connected region, allowing people to run successful
around me has been a huge influence in finding my unique is its raw natural beauty, and we want to keep it that way,” businesses remotely “all while enjoying the superior West
style,” Tessa says. she says. Coast lifestyle.”
Innovation
8 west coast
work | live | play
A COAST SPECIALITY
Ben Dellaca is the founding director of CerebralFix cookie but didn’t want to use dairy or
soy if possible,” Emily says. She calls
a software development business, making mobile hemp “nature’s powerfully nutritious
games for global entertainment companies, including superfood.”
When legislative changes were
Disney and EA. finally made in November, Emily was
T
ready to hit the ground running, and
ogether with partner Natasha studios in Christchurch. They all love it now distributes her hemp protein
Barnes-Dellaca, they have here in on the West Coast.” cookies across New Zealand and
been the driving force behind “Home ownership is now achievable internationally, all while running her
the establishment of an for all of our staff, as well as access to business from EPIC Westport.
innovation hub in Westport called surfing and mountain biking within 15 “Westport is a small town, and we
EPIC Westport. mins of the office. are a little off the beaten track, but that
EPIC offers support for new business ventures for those who need a As a collaborative centre, EPIC Emily Miazga is an expat Canadian is no barrier to us really thriving and
base for a day or a week when in Westport. Photo: Jules Anderson offers support for new business and former clinical dietitian who is kicking ass economically,” she says.
ventures as well as space for those now the ‘Powergirl’ behind Em’s Power And if you needed more evidence
who need a base for a day or a week Cookies and a tenant at EPIC. of how progressive organisations can
when in Westport. The venture makes “We came to Westport in 2006 thrive and ‘kick ass’ in a small town like
mobile working a normal way of doing because we just wanted to get out of Westport, look no further than another
business. the city. It was really important for my EPIC tenant, the NEM Blockchain Hub.
“EPIC Westport has recently husband Mitch and I to have a good While business and industry in other
completed stage two of its lifestyle. It was so beautiful here, and New Zealand centres are still grappling
development and now covers 800 the perfect training ground for the to understand what blockchain
square metres of office, event and Coast to Coast, and we just fell in even is and how they can use it, this
coworking space - with 18 tenants so love with the Coast and never looked organisation is up and running in
far,” Natasha says. “Space is going back,” Emily says. Westport, pumping out blockchain-
quickly.” Emily has made a habit of coming based gaming products alongside
Ben says they chose his hometown first. As an endurance athlete she won virtual reality and augmented reality
for the new venture because he could the gruelling Coast to Coast three products.
see the many benefits for both lifestyle times. Now her business Em’s Power And what a fascinating progression
and economic advantage. As more Cookies, has become the first to get from the town’s rich history in
and more companies embrace the commercially produced hemp protein goldmining to now being a leader
opportunities digital technologies cookies on the market in New Zealand, in all things blockchain and the
offer, it opens doors to living in less with supermarket chain Countdown cryptocurrency mining that platform
expensive regions and this in particular stocking her products nation-wide. supports!
was what Ben honed in on. About two years ago, Emily caught Which just cements the message
“We have staff who have moved wind that hemp food legislation was that Westport offers the perfect
directly from San Francisco and in the works, so she wasted no time balance for those looking to get more
Emily Miazga is the ‘Powergirl’ behind Em’s Power Cookies and a Mexico City to work in our Westport getting into the kitchen and started out of life. From working in the cutting-
tenant at Westport’s EPIC. Photo: Jules Anderson office, as well as guys that have developing her product in anticipation. edge world of blockchain to the great
migrated from our main development “I always wanted to make a protein outdoors, Westport has it all.
$195,000 $320,000 $459,000 $180,000
Work, invest, live. We’ve got it covered.
Affordable properties | Investment returns | Priceless lifestyle | Great retirement living
Call us for sales and property management.
Greymouth 03 768 7145 or Hokitika 03 755 8138
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west coast
work | live | play 9
The Town Square has been brought to life with community events. Photo: Tony Kokshoorn
Greymouth Town Square
Take in the fresh West Coast air while relaxing listening to some of the West Coasts something you won’t want to miss; one and only Mr Whippy, while the
finest live bands, markets, talent the community always puts on such talented locals entertain you.
in the outdoor dining area at the local café in show, book sale, street fair, as well as
plenty of activities for the children to
a great show with unique floats and
lots of smiles and laughter. And make
You might be wondering, who
came up with this Town Square idea?
the Town Square enjoy. There is a little something for you join the other keen market goers, The idea came from the Greymouth
everyone! taking up the main footpath and community. Our West Coasters saw a
S
ip your favourite bubbly and are parked up, chill out with your If you enjoy a good Christmas Town Square, which creates such a need for a place that can be utilised
catch up with friends and family friends in the eating areas and enjoy a carnival, make sure you swing into buzzing atmosphere. for a range of activities, a place
on a warm summer evening. Greymouth on your travels. Each The Greymouth Rotary Club also where the community and visitors can
relaxed environment.
Admire the floodwall, historical Town year Greymouth holds their annual have their annual Rotary Street Fare in come together and a place where
The Town Square has been busy Christmas Carnival, a three-day event February so if you have adventurous everyone feels welcome. The Town
Clock and the magical fairy lights recently and has been brought to filled with festive activities and the taste buds, this event is for you. Square opened in 2017 and has so
that light up the CBD and make the life with community events; between most amazing kid’s attractions. This With a large variety of multi-cultural far well exceeded our expectations.
town look beautiful. Don’t want to sit January and June 2019 there has includes bumper boats, archery food stalls, you definitely won’t go This stunning community space livens
in a busy café for lunch? Head to the been 11 events held. This includes and the best bouncy castles! Our hungry. Relax with a fresh coffee or up the Greymouth centre and brings
Town Square where two food trucks kicking back on your bean bag and Christmas parade is definitely grab yourself an ice cream from our people together.
MAKE YOUR DAY
•
•
One-way car rentals available to most South Island cities
Competitive car rental rates and first class service
BEAUTIFUL
The stunning Beachfront Hotel Hokitika is located in central Hokitika on New Zealand’s West
Coast and offers a wide range of quality accommodation, full dining, event facilities.
• Modern, well maintained, affordable rental cars The accommodation comprises five different categories of rooms - from elegant street front
• Friendly staff and convenient central Greymouth car rental location Driftwood Rooms to modern, luxury and spacious Ocean view rooms with an uninterrupted view
of the beach, to the magnificent Penthouse. Full services including Oceanview Restaurant and
Courtesy pickups and drop offs are available from accommodation Bar, event facilities for weddings, conferences, meetings and parties.
Bike storage shed for those that are here to experience the fantastic West Coast Wilderness
sites within 10 km of our premises, the railway station and the
Cycle Trail. The hotel is only a stone’s throw away from a stunning West Coast beach, and is close
region’s main airport at Hokitika to the town’s restaurants, cafes, shops and charming craft galleries featuring jade, wood, gold,
ruby, rock and precious metals.
Hokitika is centrally located, making it easy to travel to the main West Coast attractions such
Come & talk to us as the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, Shantytown, Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier, as well as
numerous rainforest walks and gold mining history. Book your stay at Beachfront Hotel Hokitika
Book online or call us now. Our operators and experience the best of the South’s Island’s West Coast.
are available 8am-5pm, 7 days a week.
nzrentacar.co.nz
FREEPHONE
0800 800 956 111 Revell Street, Hokitika | 0800 400 344
reservations@beachfronthotel.co.nz | www.beachfronthotel.co.nz
10 west coast
work | live | play
(Above) The TranzAlpine travels past beautiful Lake Brunner. Pic Tony Kokshoorn (Inset) The Monteiths brewery in Greymouth
was established in 1868 at the peak of the gold-mining era and is still going strong
A Winter Wonderland
Chris Birt celebrates the joys of the West Coast in Winter
W
hen it comes to winter, that parts of the West Coast have I’m convinced I’ve made the right
there is no place in more sunshine hours annually than choice. Last time my TranzAlpine
Aotearoa New Zealand Auckland! experience was at the start of
where the air is crisper, Armed with this new-found summer. But now winter is settling
the colours more pronounced and knowledge and some quality in and hard frosts having taken hold.
the scenery more spectacular than clothing to be put on and taken off The surge of invigoration that comes
on the West Coast. as conditions change – the layered from breathing in crisp, cold air has historic establishment is going childhood days. For
Unlike most of New Zealand, the effect which is highly recommended to be experienced to be believed. strong and I find out, yet again, so is younger folk, it’s an enthralling
pace of life here remains a constant to anyone travelling in New Zealand Heading past Moana, on the the beer it produces! world, delivered in the true tradition
– in low gear! The Coasters believe – I venture into a region which shores of the magical Lake Brunner, My intentions this trip centre of The Coast.
life is to be lived and thus winter is boasts hundreds of different things my anticipation builds, with the first around the attractions and activities Just over half an hour by car to
just another season to be savoured. to see, experience and enjoy as the sights of the great ocean – the Big in the centre and southern end of the south is the West Coast Treetop
On my most recent winter mantle of winter takes hold. Ditch as Kiwis affectionately call it – the Coast, taking in the treetop Walk and Café, but I don’t rush this
excursion to this long thin sliver The snowfalls that blanket the coming into view. Now I know that I walkway at Hokitika and the twin part of the journey, stopping often
of land sandwiched between the Southern Alps to the east provide am on the Coast, and that four days glaciers, then onward to Haast. as State Highway 6 hugs the coast,
wild crashing waves of the Tasman picture-postcard scenery, settling on of adventures, interesting activities Any visit to the West Coast must presenting one coastal vista after
Sea and the towering, majestic the vast swath of beech forest that and entertainment are about to include a visit to Shantytown, just another. The braided rivers flowing
mountains that form the backbone stretches from one end of this wild unfold. off the main coastal highway just 10 from the Southern Alps also offer
of the South Island, one of my great region to the other. An evening in Greymouth, at the minutes or so south of Greymouth. photo opportunities by the bucketful
misconceptions was remedied. I Despite a previous journey over very end of the river of that name, Set in 200 hectares of rainforest, this and every such scene must be
now know that it does not rain cats to the Coast on the TranzAlpine, is always illuminating, assisted in no heritage park boasts a fascinating captured for prosperity, of course!
and dogs for all of the winter on the I opt to do so again, based on small part by what has become a historic precinct, the chance to Just south of Hokitika stands one
West Coast. the belief that every excursion will ritualistic pilgrimage to the Monteith pan for gold, ride a steam train of the Coast’s most spectacular
The National Institute of Water provide something new. And after brewery. Established in 1868 at the and a wide range of activities that visitor attractions. The $7.7
and Atmospherics in fact reports another rail trip through the Alps, peak of the gold-mining era, this can easily return adults to their million treetop walk provides anexhilarating adventure, 20 metres accommodation and activities suited
up into the rimu and kamahi forest. to any budget, and any duration. west coast 11
Gently swaying in time with the My time at Franz Josef, and the work | live | play
ancient trees that surround it, this next day at Fox, require hours of
450 metre long steel structure takes downloads, but memories like this
me into another rarely seen part simply must not be lost.
of our natural world. The views Like all good things, this renewed
from the central tower over Lake association with this enticing,
Mahinapua to the west and to the exciting region has, once again,
Alps in the east are nothing short of come to an end. The Gates of Haast
breath taking.
and my onward journey to Wanaka
Just beyond the treetop walk the
state highway diverts inland and beckon, but it’s hard to have regrets
both Franz Josef and Fox glaciers after four spectacular days on the
beckon. Long-time favoured haunts West Coast.
with visitors to this region, the It’s been a leisurely trip and I
two glaciers depict a time in the depart this land with the thought
evolution of the world when ice that one or two days here would
ruled supreme. The magnificence simply have not done justice – to
of these giant ice packs is beyond the place, or its warm, welcoming The $7.7 million treetop walk is one of the Coast’s most spectacular attractions.
words and each of the glacier and unpretentious people.
settlements provides a range of www.westcoast.co.nz
Karamea’s
untamed wilderness
The locals may joke about how Karamea got its
name, but CHRIS BIRT reveals that there is a
distinct allure about the place
I
n the local version of events, so much to see and do, and so many
Karamea was so named by a love- delightful settlements and towns to
sick Italian during an artful bid to sample, that decision-making never
convince a fair damsel that this was comes easy.
a great place to spend the night - in With transport on hand, and
his company, naturally! baggage stowed in one of
That’s not the true story, of Karamea’s quality accommodation
course, but it is a perfect fit with establishments, it is a simple task
the attractions and appeal of the to travel. Further up the coast road
small settlement that rests beside is the Kohaihai River, forming as its
a picturesque estuary of the same does the southern end of the Heaphy
name in the untamed natural Track, at 78.4 kilometres, the longest
wilderness of the West Coast. of New Zealand’s Great Walks.
Karamea is the northern-most But for those not prepared for a
settlement of any size on ‘The Coast’. multi-day excursion of this nature,
But while it may not be substantial in there are also many other walking, or
resident population terms – less than cycling adventures to be had around
400 hardy souls lived there at last Karamea itself. The Oparara River
count - it is significant, for a whole lot runs through this part of the Coast
of very good reasons. and the large natural tunnels through
So significant that a documentary which the river runs - they are known
by a foreign director about Karamea, as the Oparara Arches - are a popular
and what it can teach the world, destination for those who maintain
recently premiered at the DOC Edge a willingness to enter into the
Festival in Auckland and Wellington. wilderness zone.
Located 96 kilometres north west The winter season has so many
of Westport, Karamea is the perfect things going for it, with the peak
base from which to launch excursions visitors flows dissipating and the
- of the adventurous kind - either landscape changing from its deep
further to the north, or to the south. greens to green and white.
There’s a range of accommodation As the locals tell it, this region has
available, from camping grounds to a proud record of recording some of
motels and backpacker hostels, so the sunniest days and warmest winter
there is every good reason to make temperatures anywhere in New
this a base. Zealand. With that in mind, planning
But there’s something of a ring to an escape to the ‘other world’ sounds
that name Karamea, leaving aside its like a stunning plan. After all, what is
alleged romantic connotations. And there not to like about the untamed Karamea is the perfect base from which to launch excursions - of the adventurous kind. Photos: Stewart Nimmo
that’s the dilemma facing those who natural wilderness that is the West
travel to the West Coast. There is just Coast?west coast
work | live | play 13
Blackball
SET TO SHINE
A visit to Blackball is never complete without popping into the ‘Formerly the Blackball Hilton’
T
he Paparoa Great Walk opens point of the 10th Great Walk. Centre, many great hotels, motels
in less than five months and They are getting ready for the and other lodgings, we also have
here in the Grey District we flow of walkers and bikers set to plenty of places for a quick bite
are excited and gearing stop off in Blackball before their to eat or a leisurely long lunch or
ourselves up to make the most of adventures in the Paparoa National dinner.
the opportunity and to offer visitors Park. Airbnb’s are springing up, If you’re out and about and
an experience they will never forget. new public toilets are being built, sightseeing in the Grey District,
Not only is this New Zealand’s first gardens and verges are being tidied, your days here are not complete
dual purpose walking and biking areas for parking and campervans without heading to the beautiful
track, but it is the first Great Walk are being made and a new café is seaside spot of Rapahoe for a
to be built from scratch and it starts set to open soon. Of course, a visit gorgeous West Coast sunset,
right here, near Blackball in the Grey to this amazing and historic little ttaking a trip up the Coast Road
District. town is never complete without through Barrytown to Punakaiki or
Blackball is a small community 20 popping into ‘Formerly the Blackball seeing the amazing views from the
minutes from Greymouth steeped Hilton’ or tasting the flavours at the Point Elizabeth Track.
in history, with a distinct and unique Blackball Salami Company. Ok, so we might have grey in our
personality all its own. They don’t Greymouth, being the Heart of name, but we are anything but that.
take things lying down in Blackball the West Coast and biggest and From a colourful history, colourful
and a leisurely visit to the Blackball closest service town, has everything characters, to a colourful future, we
Museum shows where that all you need to gear up, get ready and have it all here in the Grey District.
began in the 1908 Blackball strike. prepare for your days away on the The communities of the Grey
Nowadays, they still celebrate their track. Whether it’s bike hire, a flat District are ready and waiting for
defining and colourful history, as well white or even a cheeky ale, we have what will come from having Blackball is a small community 20 minutes from Greymouth steeped in history,
as also relishing and taking up the it all here for you. Boasting two New Zealand’s newest and with a distinct and unique personality all its own
opportunities at being the starting fabulous supermarkets, a Recreation 10th Great Walk.
While u
THE WEST COAST NOW HAS
in TWO GREAT
Greymo th... CYCLE TTRAILS
CYCLE RAILS
-THE BEST IN THE WORLD...
Come and visit the
Westland Recreation Centre.
It has swimming pools,
hydroslides, spa, sauna,
gym, group fitness classes,
basketball courts and
much more.
Paparoa Track
We look forward to seeing you!
Photo:Jason Blair
83 High Street,Greymouth
Book your bike now for the new great ride The Paparoa Track..
Phone 03 768 9076 | www.facebook.com/westlandrec www.trailtransport.co.nz
Financial Services Business Opportunity
Looking for a lifestyle change for you &/or your family?
Established, small/medium financial services business operating on
the West Coast of the South Island.
Large client base with existing revenues, plus continual new client
activity and opportunity for growth.
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are close to snow clad mountains, lakes, hunting and fishing,
world class cycle trail and much more.
For further details contact Tony on 021 359 611.14 west coast
Moving West
work | live | play
makes sense
Relocating from Auckland has paid off for family. By Lisa, Jayne and
Harper Bronkhorst-Barrett.
Our story may sound familiar to many people in making our move here as stress-free as
who have lived in large cities. possible. Over the last 10 months, our
We are a family of three, and regardless transition and integration into a smaller
of Auckland’s growing unaffordable property community has been pleasantly easy, and very
market, we managed somehow, to find welcoming.
ourselves on the property ladder. When we told our friends we were moving
Despite living within close proximity to work, to the West Coast it was met with some
we were still not living the kiwi dream. Our two scepticism. One of the major concerns seemed
bedroom townhouse had no garden for our to be about the amount of rainfall the West
daughter to play in, and the Auckland traffic Coast is renowned for. We have however
managed to affect the lifestyle we desired. been pleasantly surprised with the weather.
We decided to have a family meeting about Yes it rains and when it rains, it rains a lot, but
moving out of Auckland, and residing in a we do have a lot of sunshine too, and this
lesser populated community. This was with the allows plenty of opportunity to enjoy all of our
The West Coast Wilderness Trail. Photo: Jase Blair view of improving our lifestyle and being able outdoor activities.
to spend more quality time together as a family. We are currently building our new home, and
We ensured our four year old daughter was our daughter has happily settled into school
included in the decision making process. life with thanks to the wonderful staff at Paroa
We are both Registered Anaesthetic School.
Technicians, so our first challenge was to find Our lifestyle has greatly improved. As a
employment in a smaller town. An opportunity family, we are able to do more together now, as
arose on the West Coast at the District Health we have more time to spend doing the things
Board (DHB). We investigated further, and we like. The outdoor lifestyle suits our family
the response we received was very warm and very well, and we enjoy spending time on our
friendly. It was this reaction that led us to apply bicycle’s exploring the stunning West Coast
for the position. Wilderness Trail. There is so much to do and
The West Coast ticked many boxes that we see, and we never grow tired of the rugged,
sought after; affordable housing, less traffic, a untouched beautiful environment we have on
close supportive community, and good primary our door step.
schools. However, the deal clincher for our Overall, our move to the West Coast has
daughter, was the promise of owning a home been a huge success and one that we would
with a garden big enough for a trampoline! recommend to anyone considering a change
The West Coast DHB was instrumental for the better.
Contented Coasters Lisa, Jayne and Harper Bronkhorst-Barrett.
Hokitika,
a cool little town
Small town life ticks all boxes for family shifting to the local food culture, Joseph opened the
from America. Hokitika Sandwich Company.
This is a town where you can appreciate the “Having run a very successful sandwich shop
rich history of the West Coast, hear stories of in Denver I already had the blueprint, so I went
shipwrecks, gold miners and pounamu hunters, about sourcing the best local ingredients to put
while also enjoying the conveniences of modern between two slices of bread.”
life. Joseph says there are many advantages to
The streets of Hokitika are brimming with having a business in Hokitika.
cafés and an inspired arts and culture scene. “The local council was very supportive
There are probably more galleries and studios in getting everything up and running. Our
per capita in Hokitika than anywhere in New food safety officer was eager to see a vibrant
Joseph Walker and family moved to Hokitika from Denver and opened the Zealand. If you’re interested in genuine community with great dining options and was
experiences and friendly characters that love to supportive every step of the way.
Hokitika Sandwich Company. Photo: Jase Blair
share a story then Hokitika is the place for you. “Commercial rent is cheap which minimises
It is not just tourists being attracted to the the financial risk. There is a great tourist flow
cool little town of Hokitika, the unmatched work- with a million people passing through the region
life balance Hokitika offers is a major drawcard annually. The commute is stress-free unless the
for people looking for a better quality of life. neighbours are moving their cows. The town
Joseph Walker has been a firm West Coast itself is humming and has a great seaside vibe.”
convert since moving to Hokitika. Joseph says living in Hokitika and the West
Having been involved in the hospitality/ Coast is all about the quality of life, access to
restaurant industry his entire adult life, Joseph the natural environment and minimal financial
has opened successful restaurants in both the pressure.
Marlborough Sounds and the USA. “We are lucky to have clean air, plenty of fresh
“After four years living in downtown Denver clean water and a very safe living environment.
with a very urban lifestyle, my wife Anna and I Our house is close to some of the most
decided we wanted a cleaner, healthier and safer incredible natural features you can imagine, like
environment to start a family so we packed up the Hokitika Gorge and Lake Kaniere. We can
and came back to New Zealand. go swimming in a lake then watch the sunset on
“After looking at land and houses in every the beach.
region of the country we fell in love with a small “The community is warm and welcoming.
lifestyle block and villa in Kokatahi about fifteen The cost of housing is cheap which means low
minutes from Hokitika. This area ticked all the mortgages and minimal financial pressure and
boxes for us, we were close to mountains, rivers, stress.
lakes, forests, an airport and the cool little town “The Coast is going through a bit of a
and community of Hokitika. Not to mention only renaissance and has so much untapped
a short flight or drive to Christchurch when we potential, while other markets are saturated
craved some city life,” says Joseph. with competition there are many opportunities
Wanting to give Hokitika a fresh and here for new types of businesses in the tourism,
Hokitika is a great place to do business. Photo: Jase Blair affordable lunch option and add another layer manufacturing and production sectors.”ADVERTORIAL
Live and learn on the stunning West Coast
T
here’s never been a better draw students from around the of driving and operating machinery, qualifications that are in-demand
time than now to prepare country to learn technical, leadership graduates are snapped-up for careers across key New Zealand industries so
for an exciting new career and teamwork skills that help them in the local roading, mining or forestry graduates are ready for work.
on New Zealand’s stunning West to work and guide in the great industries. Students also have the option
Coast. outdoors. The West Coast’s rivers These are just three of TPP’s many of living in TPP’s own student
The region is home to Tai Poutini and mountains provide a real-world popular programmes. The institute’s accommodation facilities. A home
Polytechnic (TPP), which offers learning environment just next door aim is to get students into real jobs away from home while you’re
popular training programmes that to campus. in the community and help create studying. Tai Poutini Village offers
make the most of the region’s Likewise, the unique Jade and Hard better futures for everyone. TPP 58 individual rooms and shared
wild and untamed nature. Nestled Stone Carving programme makes works closely with industry partners facilities for students. Village staff
between the Southern Alps and the the most of the West Coast’s historic and employers to make sure they provide you with a living environment
Tasman Sea, the West Coast is home connection with pounamu. Students deliver training that is relevant and which encourages and supports
to some of New Zealand’s most get right to the source of pounamu in-demand, matching graduates with the educational mission of the
striking scenery – you’ll experience on local beaches and learn about the real jobs in industries that are looking Polytechnic, supporting students in
sweeping mountains, deserted culture and significance of the stone for skilled employees. their chosen programme of study, and
beaches, rainforests, remarkable rock as well as the technique and artistry There is something special about helping them to develop personally,
formations, underground caves and needed to make a career from their living and learning on the West Coast. socially and culturally.
some fantastic outdoor adventure carving. People who choose to study at TPP
opportunities, all on your back TPP’s Civil Plant students have a unique experience and can There are so many opportunities
doorstep. enjoy getting hands-on with heavy choose to stay on the Coast or take on the West Coast to create a
TPP makes the most of the machinery at a specialised site in the the skills they have learned to jobs better future. Head to www.tpp.
surroundings. The institute’s popular hills behind Greymouth. With plenty in national industries or overseas. ac.nz to find out more or call
Outdoor Education programmes of space to learn the fundamentals TPP offers nationally recognised 0800 800 411.
Main picture: Outdoor Education students climbed over the main divide through the Harman Pass, the journey continued down the Taipo Valley and along the Arahura River towards the West
Coast Ocean. Top right: Artist Credit – Nikita Stevenson, Arts and Design Graduate. Middle right: Brent Scott, Arts and Design graduate, craving stone in the TPP Art and Design workshop.
Bottom right: Outdoor Education students ready for a day of sea kayaking throughout Okarito’s spectacular scenery.
Working towards a
BETTER future
SHAZA THOMAS
CIVIL PLANT STUDENT
0800 TPP INFO
WWW.TPP.AC.NZDo you want to drive
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Coast Connect links job hunters with opportunities -
training and jobs on the West Coast
It’s a new way for job seekers, employers and education provides to
interact. See what opportunities are available on the West Coast and
plan your future.
Why Coast Connect?
West Coast businesses are crying out for skilled staff. Coast Connect
removes the barriers to getting into a job on the Coast. By working
with potential students and local employers, Coast Connect helps
create opportunities and real outcomes that benefit local people and
local businesses.
Why does it work?
What makes Coast Connect different to other job sites is that
Coast Connect gets involved, working with both job seekers and
employers to identify skills gaps and suggest training opportunities
that get them ready for the job. It’s about making connections in the
community and creating great outcomes for everyone.
0800 CCNNCT
www.coastconnect.nz f coastconnectnzYou can also read
