Located 105 kms north of Greymouth and 232 kms southwest of Nelson, Wesport is the largest town of the West Coast of the South Island.

Once a prosperous through gold, coal mining and timber, Wesport still operates New Zealand's only bituminous coal mine. 

Westport is also known for is adventure activities of jet boating, white and black river underground rafting,  adventure caving, white water kayaking and rafting and craft. The town is close to the sea with its own port facilities, so surfing is available. Besides adventure activites, Westport is also know for its crafts people, local west coast brewery and gold panning.

Westport is served by InterCity Coachlines from Fox Glacier, Franz Fosef Glacier, Greymouth and Nelson and by Air New Zealand Link air service from Wellington.