January 29 - February 27, 2025, New Zealand February 14

Today, we travel through Whataroa, Ross, along Lake Mapourika to Hokitika Beach and Hokitika Gorge, heading to Arahura Valley.

The enchanting Hokitika Gorge with its radiant turquoise blue water is a true hidden gem! Very few tourists wander here. It's a shame because the gorge is a real beauty and should not be missed on any road trip through the South Island.

A beautiful, easy walking track leads through the Hokitika Gorge, its dense forest, and over wobbly swing bridges. The impressive milky blue color of the river in the gorge comes from the rock sediment of the surrounding glaciers - just like the glowing blue lakes Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo.

The Hokitika Gorge is located halfway between the Franz Josef Glacier and Greymouth on the west coast of the South Island. The gorge is well signposted. The access road branches off in the small town of the same name (Kaniere-Kowhitirangi Road) and ends at a parking lot in the forest (coordinates: -42.956831, 171.019552). It's about 32 km from the town of Hokitika to the parking lot - partly on unsealed tracks, which are passable for any car.

From the small parking lot, an easy path leads to the first swing bridge over the glowing blue Hokitika River in about 15 minutes. From the banks and the bridge, one can admire and photograph the beautiful gorge from every conceivable angle. Those who wish can also swim in the icy glacial water - but one should be cautious of the current.