Photo: Andris ApseThe remote community of Ōkārito on the South Island's West Coast, 30km north of Franz Josef, is home to just 30 people. But this beautiful settlement situated in one of New Zealand's most significant ecosystems has a thriving campground, a restored community centre and attracts visitors from around the world. The kayaking business, there's a boat tour business here, there's a Kiwi tour business. All of them are really simple, small businesses that are focused on nature in what's essentially a very simple town that hasn't changed much over generations. Ōkārito lagoon.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 18, 2026 21:21 UTC