The dramatic coastline of the South Island’s West Coast between Westport and Punakaiki is a bit like Big Sur in California. High mountains run down to the ocean, where large swells roll in from deep water and pound onto the coast. The road follows around the contours of the coast, which is dotted with sharp jagged rocky outcrops. Driving south through the spectacular scenery I become a frustrated photographer, as it is tricky to find a place to safely pull off with the camper. A truck driver overtakes us, showing no mercy to the plight of the tourist. The solution is to turn around and drive north as there are a number of small stopping places on the ocean side to capture images of the bright blue/turquoise ocean. Heading south again we stop at a high lookout point with sweeping views north up the coast.

Lush nīkau line the road near Punakaiki


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