2 Best Sights in Upper South Island and the West Coast, New Zealand

Halfway between both Picton and Nelson and Blenheim and Nelson, on State Highway 6, is this remnant of the native lowland forest that once covered the whole region. Easy walking trails explore the beech, podocarp (a species of evergreen), and broadleaf trees. In summer ,the crystal clear river is warm enough (just) for swimming (watch for the sand flies). There's also a rare colony of endangered long-tailed native bats that come to play round the streetlight at the bridge at night. This is an utterly delightful place to take a pause, especially with a campground and café both in the vicinity.

You can wander the tops of the ancient trees in the West Coast rain forest on this 1,500-foot long, 65-foot-high walkway through the canopy. You can go even higher on the Hokitika Tower, 130 feet above the forest floor. Views extend over the rain forest to dark, glacial Lake Mahinapua and beyond to the Southern Alps. The walkway is fully wheelchair-accessible. A café and gift shop are also on site.