KiwiGlimpseOverview
Lower Kokatahi is a small rural community located on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. The area is known for its stunning natural scenery, with the Southern Alps and Hokitika River nearby. The community is home to a mix of farms and small businesses and is a popular destination for tourists seeking a quiet and peaceful way of life.
| Lower Kokatahi Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | Lower Kokatahi |
| Region | West Coast |
| District Council | Westland District |
| Sub-District | Westland District |
| Postal Code: | - |
| Current Time: | 10:29 PM |
| Date: | Saturday, January 24, 2026(NZST) |
| Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
| Elevation / Altitude | 52.13 meters. Above Seal level |
| Latitude | -42.8300 |
| Longitude | 171.0300 |
| DMS Lat | -43° 10' 12'' |
| DMS Long | 171° 1' 48'' |
History
The history of Lower Kokatahi is closely linked to the history of the wider West Coast region. The area was originally inhabited by Maori communities and in the 19th century, European settlers arrived and established farms and small towns. Today, Lower Kokatahi remains a small rural community with a strong sense of history and tradition.
Geography
Lower Kokatahi is located on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. The Southern Alps are a prominent feature of the area, offering visitors the opportunity to explore mountains, glaciers and other outdoor activities. The Hokitika River runs through the community, providing opportunities for fishing, kayaking and other water-based activities.
Lower Kokatahi is located at latitude -42.83 and longitude 171.03 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -43° 10' 12'' and longitude 171° 1' 48'' (DMS).
Below is map of Lower Kokatahi
Demographics
Lower Kokatahi is a small community with a population of just a few hundred people. The area is home to a mix of families, retirees and others seeking a quieter way of life. The main industries in the area are agriculture and forestry, with many residents working in these sectors or in small businesses catering to locals and visitors.
Climate
The climate in Lower Kokatahi is temperate, with mild temperatures year-round. The area receives an average of 3,000 mm of rainfall per year, with the wettest months being July and August. The average temperature in January, the warmest month, is 18°C, while the average temperature in July, the coldest month, is 8°C.
Lower Kokatahi Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Error: Unable to retrieve weather forecast data.Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
Lower Kokatahi and the surrounding area offer visitors a range of natural attractions and outdoor activities. Some of the most popular destinations include the Southern Alps, Hokitika Gorge and nearby towns like Hokitika, known for its historic sites and attractions. The community is also home to a number of small businesses, including cafes, farm stands and craft shops.
Economy
The economy of Lower Kokatahi is largely based on agriculture and forestry, with many residents working in these sectors or in small businesses catering to locals and visitors. The area is also popular with tourists, particularly those seeking a quieter way of life and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Nearby Schools
| Sr. No. | School Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Active Explorers Hokitika |
| 2 | Harper Park Early learning Centre |
| 3 | Hokitika School |
| 4 | Kaniere School |
| 5 | Kidsfirst Kindergartens Hokitika |