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

Don’t miss a visit to beautiful, coastal Ōkārito Lagoon, just a 13-km (8-mile) detour off the highway, 15 km (9.3 miles) north of Franz Josef township. An immense, forest-fringed, coastal lagoon, nestled in scenic splendor beneath the Southern Alps, Ōkārito is arguably one of the largest, most pristine wetlands remaining in New Zealand. It is home to thousands of sea and wading birds and is backed by the Ōkārito Kiwi Sanctuary, 27,000 acres of lowland forest and home of the rowi, a rare species of kiwi.

Six kilometers (4 miles) west of Tākaka you'll find the largest cold-water spring system in the southern hemisphere, the Main Springs, likened to a fresh-water equivalent of a coral reef because of its superb variety of aquatic vegetation. The water here is among the clearest water ever measured, anywhere in the world. Swimming or touching the water is not allowed, to prevent the introduction of weeds and damage to the delicate flora within the springs, so leave your wetsuits and dive gear in the car. Instead, take a leisurely stroll around the Scenic Reserve on the 40-minute, top-quality walk to the Main Springs, Dancing Sand Spring, and Fish Creek Springs. Go quietly—the better to spot tūī, bellbirds, wood pigeons, and other birdlife. The turnoff from State Highway 60 to Pupu Springs Road is signposted on the western side of the Tākaka River bridge. Pick a sunny day when the Springs are fully illuminated.