There's a new reason to get along to the wonderful West Coast of Te Waipounamu. 

And it's to do with the stone that gives the South Island its Te Reo name - the pounamu. Poutini Ngāi Tahu and Wētā Workshop have collaborated to create the first part of the pounamu pathway.

Māwhera Pā opened in Greymouth about a month ago and visitors can see architectural designs featuring treasured tribal patterns, master carving and other traditional art forms. 

It is the first part of four centres set to open on the West Coast.

There will be an exhibition in Kawatiri/Westport at the end of January and then the Haast Department of Conservation is to be revamped later in the year.

The final part of the pounamu pathway lands in Hokitika when it is finished being built in late 2025.