Matheson Cafe

Top choice in Westland Tai Poutini National Park


At the start of the Lake Matheson Track, this cafe does everything right: sharp architecture that maximises mountain views, strong coffee, craft beers and upmarket fare. Bratwurst breakfasts are a good prelude to rambling round the lake, while beef ramen and merino lamb burgers are a delicious way to refuel afterwards. Check out the ReflectioNZ gift shop next door.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Westland Tai Poutini National Park attractions

1. Lake Matheson

0.61 MILES

On a good day, the famous 'mirror lake' reflects extraordinary views of distant Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman in its forest-shaded waters. The best time to…

2. Peak Viewpoint

2.76 MILES

It's a very long way from the actual glacier, but this parking area provides a surprisingly good view over fields to Fox Glacier (weather permitting)…

3. Fox Glacier Lookout

5.6 MILES

On a clear day, this is one of the best land-based positions from which to see Fox Glacier (though its retreat may mean you see just a snippet).

4. Gillespies Beach

7.6 MILES

Follow Cook Flat Rd for its full 21km (the final 12km is narrow, winding and unsealed) to this remote beach, a ruggedly beautiful, wind-blasted length of…

5. Sentinel Rock

10.14 MILES

Survey the skies before embarking on the short, steep walk to the top of Sentinel Rock: the lookout reveals either impressive views of the glacier valley,…

6. Peters Pool

10.36 MILES

Formed by centuries of glacial meltwater, this dainty kettle lake girded by native rainforest is an easy 1km-return walk from the main glacier car park…

7. West Coast Wildlife Centre

11.5 MILES

The purpose of this feel-good attraction is breeding two of the world's rarest kiwi – the rowi and the Haast tokoeka. As well as a chance to hang out with…

8. Andris Apse Okarito Gallery

18.07 MILES

Okarito is home to world-class landscape photographer Andris Apse. His precisely composed gallery showcases his beautiful works, which are printed on-site…