This is one of my favourite things to do here. I love the drive from Hokitika up to Punakaiki. It doesn’t matter if the weather is amazing or terrible the Coast Road is incredible and the blow holes are always stunning.
We like to stop in at the Monteiths Brewery for a bite to eat and of course a taste of the product.
https://www.westcoast.co.nz/plan-your-trip/monteiths-brewery-tour/
The drive from Hokitika to Punakaiki takes about an hour but we recommend you slow down and enjoy the journey. There are so many beaches, nooks and crannys you may want to take the whole day – and make sure you have your camera. You could stop at Rapahoe Beach for a swim.
The main highway called The Great Coast Road between Westport and Greymouth has been named one of the Top 10 Coastal Drives in the world according to Lonely Planet. Your drive to Punakaiki takes you on the very best part of this road.
Punakaiki is an amazing place to visit in any weather. Of course it is beautiful when it is warm and sunny but the blow holes are at their most impressive when the sea is up and the wind is blowing.
https://www.westcoast.co.nz/west-coast-regions/great-coast-road/
I can also highly recommend the short Truman Track walk to the beach.