The West Coast - New Zealand's South Island - page 228

Having manned the starting gate with sterling hospitality for 30 years, this tiny town is
well-oiled to cope with yet more sporty visitors, namely people cycling the West Coast
Wilderness Trail ( Click here ) , which passes through the town. Anticipating their arrival is
the show-stopping Theatre Royal Hotel ( 03-736 9277; www.theatreroyalhotel.co.nz ; 81 Seddon St, SH73,
Kumara; mains $22-42, d incl breakfast $135-290; 10am-late; ) , the fully restored highway stop
that has kicked Kumara well and truly into the 21st century with its civilised bar, classy
dining room, and sumptuous upstairs rooms styled after local personalities of old. The at-
tention to detail in furnishings and heritage displays is simply wonderful. Stop in to enjoy
some of the best food on the coast (fish and chips, local game, pizza and delicate cakes) or
just pull in for a drink and a yarn with the locals.
Should you be to-ing or fro-ing over Arthur's Pass, consider staying at Jacksons Retreat (
03-738 0474; www.jacksonsretreat.co.nz ; Jacksons, SH73; sites from $35; ) , 33km west of Ar-
thur's Pass Village. Set upon 15 sloping acres with exceptional views over the Taramakau
River, it offers stacks of excellent amenities for campervanner and tenter alike.