Your guide to what’s on in the West Coast

by Metropol | November 26, 2025 8:33 am


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 or enjoy some nourishment and beverages. At just $5 per person (with free entry for kids), you’re bound to be enthralled by the abundance of entertainment, including the Glamour in the Goldfields competition, music, and bouncy castles.

10 JANUARY: KUMARA GOLD NUGGETS

Are you ready for Kumara’s most iconic race day? Live bands? Local food? A best-dressed competition? Plus, with free buses to and from Greymouth and Hokitika on race day, this event is easily accessible to all your family and friends. Check out kumararacing.com for more information about their gazebo, marquee, and camping options.

Driftwood and Sand Festival, Hokitika.

21 JANUARY: DRIFTWOOD & SAND, BEACH ART FESTIVAL

For a taste of New Zealand’s seaside summer, visit Hokitika’s Beach Art Festival. Team up with your mates and try building a sculpture with anything you can find on the beach, or admire coastal creations crafted by other contestants. Driftwood? Sand? Stones? Your creativity is the only limit.

13-14 FEBRUARY: KATHMANDU COAST TO COAST

Aspiring to accomplish your next fitness milestone? Partake in Coast to Coast, one of New Zealand’s major multisport events involving running, kayaking, and cycling. Beginning on Kumara Beach, traverse 243km across the width of the South Island to Christchurch’s New Brighton Pier over one or two days.

If any of these events capture your attention, head to westcoast.co.nz/events to find out more.


Source URL: https://metropol.co.nz/your-guide-to-whats-on-in-the-west-coast/