Where is Greymouth?
Greymouth lies at the heart of West Coast region on New Zealand's South Island, across the Alps from Christchurch.
With a population of around 8,000 people, Greymouth is the largest town in the West Coast region of New Zealand’s South Island.
Surrounded by chiselled cliff tops, wild beaches, and the serene Grey Valley, Greymouth is a beautiful destination in its own right. But it is also the hub for connecting to Christchurch on the east coast via the iconic TranzAlpine Greymouth to Christchurch train.
Gateway to the West Coast
Greymouth has direct road connections with all the West Coast towns, and Queenstown to the south. This makes Greymouth a convenient hub for exploring the West Coast region and beyond, and there are plenty of car rental companies in Greymouth should you wish to venture onwards.
Greymouth is also home to the world-famous TranzAlpine Christchurch to Greymouth train, making it the obvious place to start exploring the West Coast without a car. And with one of New Zealand's most beautiful cycle trails starting here, the West Coast Wilderness trail, you have the perfect excuse to forget about cars altogether. You can hire bikes in Greymouth or bring your bike aboard the TranzAlpine train.
Things to do in Greymouth
With so much beautiful West Coast scenery to enjoy, it's no surprise that Greymouth's best activities are outdoors. So bring some walking shoes or hiking boots with you if you are staying for a night or two.
Greymouth is also famous for the Monteith's Brewery, which is a must visit if you like breweries.
However, if breweries aren't your style, visit the new Pounamu Pathway, a cultural attraction called Mawhera Pa, just minutes from the train station. There are also plenty of cafés nearby, and a gentle walking trail along the river bank that is both interesting and informative.
Top Greymouth Activities
Greymouth Accommodation
Greymouth has great accommodation options, from convenient hotels and motels to camping sites and the delightful Greymouth Seaside Top 10 Holiday Park.
For something quirky and historic, “Formerly the Blackball Hilton” is a living museum at the heart of an old mining town. If you are keen to learn about the region's rich mining history, then this is a great way to experience it first-hand.
Alternatively, if you want a convenient and stylish stay within Greymouth town centre, then the Coleraine Suites & Appartments and the Copthorne Hotel Greymouth are perfect.
Copthorne Hotel Greymouth
Situated alongside the Grey River at the heart of Greymouth town, this elegant 4-star hotel provides modern stylish comfort with a traditional warm West Coast welcome.
For a blissful escape, choose a Superior Riverview Room with balcony overlooking the Grey River and Tasman Sea. And with on-site restaurant, Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen, serving delicious locally inspired cuisine night and day, you won't need to go far.
Things to do on the West Coast
Greymouth is the launchpad for exploring the incredible landscapes and industrial history of the West Coast.
Highlights include the Pancake Rocks and blowholes at Dolomite Point near Punakaiki; the magnificent Lake Brunner, the largest lake on the West Coast; and Hokitika Gorge, just 33km from Hokitika township, with gorgeous greenery and breathtaking turquoise-blue water.
Visiting Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier, Haast, and the Oparara Arches are just a few more of the spectacular natural attractions in the West Coast region.
Greymouth History
Greymouth Railway Station
Conveniently located at the heart of Greymouth town, Greymouth Railway Station is perfectly situated for exploring this historic West Coast town.
Find out more about the station, including maps, parking, and amenities and the TranzAlpine timetable.
Getting to Greymouth
You can get to Greymouth by train from Christchurch aboard the world-famous TranzAlpine. Either book a train journey directly or choose from one of our many West Coast packages and tours to see more of this wonderful region: