Your guide to what’s on in the West Coast

26 & 28 DECEMBER: WESTPORT TROTTING CLUB CHRISTMAS MEETING Gather all your family and friends to watch some horse racing. With ten different trotting and pace races each day, there will be plenty of high-speed equines to admire. 30 DECEMBER: REEFTON TROTS Get ready for Reefton’s largest annual race event. Pack a picnic […]

5 great foods for gut health

From the moment we’re born, our gut microbiome’s role in the body begins. There’s still much to learn about the trillions of micro-organisms – bacteria, viruses and fungi – that exist in our gastrointestinal tract, but the science has already revealed some fascinating associations between them and the healthy functioning of just about […]

A rebranded favourite: The Little Taphouse

This local favourite has rebranded into a homely haven to be enjoyed by all. Previously Sprig & Fern Merivale, The Little Taphouse’s refurbishment refurbishment has created a space for growth, while still providing the same great service locals love. “We are now stocking 18 taps of Emerson’s beer,” says bar and restaurant owner, […]

Inside a Christmas house

Christchurch florist Millie MacAlpine found a way to lean into her festive obsession after designing a home with sweeping staircases and eight-metre-high ceilings set on six acres of rustic gardens. A self-proclaimed ‘Chris-a-holic’ (which you will come to endorse), Millie MacAlpine has always adored Christmas time. Designing and building the aforementioned property on […]

Gifting time? Gift time.

The dilemma of what to gift those special people around you isn’t just looming – it’s arrived. The almost impossible balancing act of giving a gift that is thoughtful, exciting, and not a repeat of something they already have is a tale as old as time. Our answer? Gift an experience. Booking an […]

Lover’s retreat

Romance in the West Coast is right at your fingertips. Bursting with creative finesse, painted from a palette of emerald tree canopies and sapphire coastline, Hokitika is the small town that captures people’s hearts. Stay For a cosy, romantic séjour, stay by the sea at the Beachfront Hotel Hokitika. Choose from modern ocean […]

Cycle the wild – West Coast

Why ride the West Coast Wilderness Trail? Why not. Tumbling rivers, fresh rainforest, unspoiled open waters backdropped by the Southern Alps – the Wilderness Trail offers the best of New Zealand bundled up into one great experience. Divided into sections, it’s one of New Zealand’s most accessible trails with the option to tackle […]

Wild Food Fest – Hokitika

Celebrate all things wild, weird and wonderful when Hokitika comes alive on Saturday 14 March, 2026, with the legendary Wildfoods Festival. This iconic West Coast event continues to draw thousands of adventurous foodies, music lovers, and partygoers from across Aotearoa and beyond. Whether you’re brave enough to try a huhu grub or mountain […]

Preserve your sight: Anstice

Sunglasses are far more than a fashion accessory. They’re an essential investment in long term eye health. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and pterygium (often called surfer’s eye), all of which can affect vision and comfort over time. “Possibly one of the most important […]