The wild and rugged West Coast of New Zealand's South Island is a treasure trove for food and drink lovers. With its untamed landscapes, abundant natural resources, and spirited locals, the region offers unexpected culinary delights and quirky entertainment options that are sure to surprise and delight even the most seasoned traveller. In this article, we'll delve into some of the unique gastronomic experiences available on the West Coast, so buckle up and prepare your taste buds – it's going to be quite a ride!

A Feast of Wild Foods in Hokitika

Every year in March, the sleepy seaside town of Hokitika comes alive for the Hokitika Wildfoods Festival, a one-day event that sees thousands of people descend on the town to sample some of the most exotic and unusual culinary delights the region has to offer. With a focus on sustainably harvested, wild-sourced ingredients, the festival is a true celebration of the West Coast's natural bounty, and a must-visit for any adventurous foodie. Some of the more unusual offerings at the festival include:

Huhu grubs – these plump, juicy insects are a traditional Maori delicacy and are said to taste like peanut butter. They can be eaten raw or cooked, and are a surprisingly high source of protein.
Mountain oysters – also known as lamb testicles, these tender morsels are often served crumbed and deep-fried. Don't be put off by their origin; they've been compared to sweetbreads in terms of taste and texture.
Punga fern fronds – the young, unfurled fronds of the punga fern are a prized ingredient in Maori cuisine. They can be steamed, boiled or stir-fried, and have a unique, slightly bitter flavour that pairs well with rich, fatty meats.
West Coast whitebait – these tiny, translucent fish are a West Coast delicacy, and are often served in a simple, eggy whitebait fritter. The season for catching them runs from August to November, so time your visit accordingly if you want to sample this regional treat.

Discovering the Craft Beer Scene

New Zealand's craft beer scene has been booming in recent years, and the West Coast is no exception. With a number of small breweries and bars focusing on local and artisanal brews, there's plenty to explore for beer enthusiasts. Some of the West Coast's standout craft beer destinations include:

The Monteith's Brewing Company in Greymouth – situated in the heart of the West Coast, this iconic brewery offers guided tours and tastings, as well as an on-site bar and restaurant serving up hearty, beer-infused dishes.
Reefton Distilling Co. – this boutique distillery in the historic gold-mining town of Reefton produces a range of craft spirits, including gin, vodka, and moonshine, alongside their flagship brew, the Little Biddy West Coast IPA. Stop in for a tasting and a chat with the passionate team behind the brand.
The Mussel Inn in Onekaka – this quirky, eco-conscious pub and venue has been a fixture of the West Coast's Golden Bay area for over 20 years, and is known for its range of house-brewed beers and ciders, as well as its laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.

Quirky Entertainment Options on the West Coast

As well as its offerings for the food and drink aficionado, the West Coast is home to some truly unique entertainment options that you won't find anywhere else. Some of our top picks for a memorable night out include:

The Theatre Royal Hotel in Kumara – this lovingly restored gold-rush era hotel features a stunning, gilt-edged theatre that hosts regular live music and theatrical performances. With a cosy bar and restaurant on-site, it's the perfect spot for a cultured evening on the West Coast.
Barrytown Hall – tucked away in the tiny settlement of Barrytown, this community-run venue is the hub for all sorts of quirky and offbeat events, from live concerts and discos to knife-making workshops and roller discos. Check their Facebook page for upcoming events and prepare to be amazed!
The Denniston Dog – located in the historic coal-mining town of Denniston, this character-filled bar and restaurant offers regular live music and quiz nights, as well as a menu that showcases the best of the region's wild game and seafood. It's well worth the winding drive up the Denniston Incline to experience this hidden gem.

With its wealth of unique food and drink experiences, the West Coast of New Zealand truly offers something for everyone, from adventurous eaters to craft beer connoisseurs and lovers of offbeat entertainment. So next time you're planning a trip to the Land of the Long White Cloud, be sure to set aside some time to explore this wild and wonderful region – your taste buds will thank you for it!

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