🇳🇿 Hokitika: New Zealand's Jade Capital 💎

For centuries, the Māori have treasured Pounamu (greenstone) found in West Coast rivers—not just as adornment, but as sacred taonga (treasure). Hokitika is the only place in NZ where this precious jade is sourced! 🏡 A Quiet Afternoon in Town Jade Shops: Ranging from high-end (deep-green stones, ~$300NZD) to affordable boutiques 🛍️ Wild West Vibes: Two-story wooden buildings lining sleepy streets—feels like a cowboy might duel at any moment! 🤠💥 Oceanfront Lunch: Picnic with Pacific waves 🌊 and cheeky seagulls as your only company. 🌿 Must-Do: Hokitika Gorge 📍 *30-min drive from town (Whitcombe Valley Rd)* Milk-blue waters 💙 + swaying suspension bridge (not for the faint-hearted!) Hike 20 mins to the bridge—the valley’s raw beauty will steal your breath. 🚗 Driving Tips 🅿️ No parking/highway fees (but watch for speed cameras in towns!) ⚠️ We got a ticket—don’t let NZ’s empty roads tempt you to speed! #Hokitika #Pounamu #WestCoastNZ #RoadTrip #MāoriCulture