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Team Building Programs in NZ South Island’s West Coast:

South Island’s West Coast, commonly known as ‘The Coast’ is an island located on the south-west extremity of the Yorke Peninsula in South Australia at the southern end of Pondalowie Bay about 11 kilometres (6.8 miles) north-west by west of the town of Stenhouse Bay. 

The diversity of landscapes and coastlines in this island is astounding. With stunning rivers, lush rainforests, mammoth glaciers, tall mountains, sheer cliffs, national parks and geological treasures. There are many activities for your group to try and enjoy.  With a laid back vibe, cool climate and many accommodation options, this is obviously a great destination for group retreats and team building programs for you and your organisation.  

TOP 10 PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES IN NZ SOUTH ISLAND’S WEST COAST:

  1. Franz Josef Glacier: Capture the stunning blue ice of this iconic glacier, set against the backdrop of lush rainforest.
  2. Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes: Witness the dramatic limestone formations and the powerful blowholes, especially impressive during high tide and stormy weather.
  3. Lake Matheson: Known for its mirror-like reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, providing incredible sunrise and sunset photo opportunities.
  4. Hokitika Gorge: Photograph the vibrant turquoise waters of the gorge contrasted against the native bush surroundings and the swing bridge.
  5. Fox Glacier: Similar to Franz Josef Glacier, but with its own unique charm and stunning scenery, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
  6. The Great Coast Road: Drive along this scenic coastal route and capture breathtaking views of rugged coastline, cliffs, and beaches.
  7. Arthur’s Pass National Park: Photograph the stunning alpine landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora and fauna along the numerous hiking trails.
  8. Gillespies Beach: Enjoy sunset photography with the backdrop of rugged coastline, sea stacks, and views of the Southern Alps.
  9. Haast Pass: Stop at Thunder Creek Falls, Roaring Billy Falls, and Blue Pools for amazing photo opportunities showcasing waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, and lush rainforest.
  10. Lake Wanaka and That Wanaka Tree: Capture the iconic lone willow tree standing in the lake against the backdrop of the Southern Alps, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset.

These are just a few of the many incredible photo spots on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Each offers its own unique beauty and photographic opportunities.

SEASONAL EVENTS IN NZ SOUTH ISLAND’S WEST COAST:

Spring:

  • Hokitika Wildfoods Festival: Held in March, this festival celebrates wild foods and features an array of unique and adventurous culinary delights.
  • Buller Gorge Marathon: Taking place in September, this marathon event offers runners a chance to traverse through the stunning Buller Gorge scenery.
  • Spring Challenge Adventure Race: An all-women adventure race held in October, offering participants various outdoor challenges in the scenic West Coast environment.

Summer:

  • Westport Food and Wine Festival: Held in January, this festival celebrates local food and wine producers, featuring tastings, demonstrations, and entertainment.
  • West Coast Wilderness Trail Annual Cycle Event: Taking place in February, this event allows cyclists to enjoy the scenic West Coast Wilderness Trail with various distance options.
  • Gold’n’Notes Music Festival: An annual music festival held in Greymouth during the summer months, featuring a diverse lineup of local and national artists.

Autumn:

  • Hokitika Driftwood and Sand Beach Art Festival: Held in April, this festival showcases impressive sculptures made from driftwood and sand along Hokitika Beach.
  • Great Coast Road Run: Taking place in May, this running event offers participants the chance to race along the stunning Great Coast Road with various distance options.
  • Buller Gorge Marathon Relay: A relay version of the Buller Gorge Marathon held in May, allowing teams to participate in this scenic running event.

Winter:

  • Franz Josef Glacier Marathon: Held in June, this marathon event takes runners through the beautiful Franz Josef Glacier landscape.
  • Greymouth Motorcycle Street Races: Taking place in July, this event sees motorcycle racers tearing through the streets of Greymouth in an exhilarating display of speed and skill.
  • Wildfoods Winter Wellness Festival: Held in August, this festival celebrates wellness and sustainability with workshops, demonstrations, and activities focused on health and well-being.

These are just a few examples of the seasonal regular annual public events that take place on South Island’s West Coast throughout the year. There may be additional events and festivals specific to certain towns or communities in the region.

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