Understand
Greymouth is at the western terminus of the TranzAlpine line. Although it is located on the South Island's west coast, The town sits along the bank of the Grey River named in honour of sir george Grey, about half a mile inland. The town has suffered many floods from the river untill a floodwall was built in 1992 which has since saved the town from further floods. The town has several scenic walkways along the river and parks.
Greymouth still shows much of it's industrial roots and would not be considered an especially attractive tourist town. Primarily recommended as a base when checking out Punakaiki pancake rocks, white water rafting, kayaking, visit Shanty Town or tours to franz Joseph Glacier, not as a destination in it's own right.
Shanty Town is a replica gold mining town complete with sawmill, gold sluice and gold panning. A steam train runs several trips each day. Shanty town also operates New Zealands only Steam School in association with Tai poutini Polytech
