If you like industrial history and fantastic views, the Denniston Plateau on the West Coast of the South Island is for you. Turn off State Highway 67 at Waimangaroa, north of Westport, and take the steep road to the plateau, 600 meters above sea level.
There was a substantial coal mining operation on the plateau, which is now the site of a ghost town and the remains of industrial facilities. You can stand right on the edge of the Denniston Incline, which in its day was the longest gravity-driven rail system in the world. It's too bad they removed it; it would make an amazing adventure ride!
6 images