HOKITIKA

I am now on the Central West Coast of the South Island in Hokitika. It is hard to believe that 2 weeks ago I was at the very bottom of the South Island in Stewart Island- that is a lot of driving if you hadn’t realised.

I haven’t been feeling to well for the past 24hours so I didn’t get to experience much in Hokitika- damn stomach bug. However I did get to witness the beautiful rare landscape of the rugged coastline, mountain ranges and primeval forests. Amongst this scenic wonderland lies a quaint town centre, which provides for every possible comfort after a day of exhilarating activity or leisurely pleasure.

Shining Star Chalets and Accommodation

Nestled in 4 acres of native gardens with an exclusive walkway direct to the beach this 4 ½ star accommodation is ideal for families, groups and couples wanting space, tranquillity and peacefulness. Shining Star Chalets and Accommodation is in the perfect location away from the hustle and bustle but still close enough to town to enjoy the amenities.



This Hokitika accommodation is right by the sea offering guests the opportunity to relax and enjoy fantastic views of the ocean and impressive West Coast sunsets. Our Beachfront Log Apartment was very spacious and well appointed with a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom.




The holiday park is perfect for families and provides children with endless opportunities of entertainment with a playground and various types of animals onsite including chickens, alpacas, pigs, goats and a horse. The cabins also have an enclosed backyard area, which is gated off from the beach.

For information on prices and accommodation visit their website at: www.shiningstar.co.nz

Shantytown

Over 30 historic buildings make up this replica 19th century pioneer town, inspired by the West Coast gold rushes of the 1860s.





Its peaceful setting amongst regenerating native forest allowed us to take a step back in time and experience a range of activities and view fascinating relics from the past.



The bush saw mill experience told a story of milling on the West Coast in an innovative way using audio-visual techniques. We followed a boardwalk through the heart of the mill to an interpretation area and gained an insight as to what milling would have been like in the olden days.

Then it was time to ride the steam train. Infants Creek railway line follows an old bush tram line that was used to transport logs to a timber-mill.






The forest is now regenerating and the train travels past old gold-workings. We were able to disembark the train at these gold workings and participate in gold panning.




The best part of the day for me was having an old time portrait taken as a memento of my visit. Re-visiting a scene in ‘Pretty Woman’ I tried on several old time outfits before deciding on the perfect costume for my portrait.



A must see, Shantytown will be sure to provide you with interesting facts on the history of the West Coast as well as few laughs. For information on prices visit http://www.shantytown.co.nz