Haast Pass

Haast Pass is one of New Zealand's most dramatic mountain crossings, a winding road that slices through the Southern Alps between the West Coast and Central Otago. As you drive, the landscape shifts from lush rainforest and cascading waterfalls to beech forest and alpine tarns, with short walks that reveal the raw beauty of the region. This is a journey best savored slowly, with stops for photo opportunities and tramps that get you up close to the area's wild heart.

Highlights & What to See

• Thunder Creek Falls – A 28-metre waterfall just a short walk from the road; the spray and roar are invigorating.
• Fantail Falls – A delicate fan-shaped cascade, perfect for a quick leg-stretch and photo stop.
• Blue Pools Walk – An easy track leading to crystal-clear pools fed by the Makarora River; the water is so clear you can see trout swimming.
• Haast Pass Summit – The highest point of the pass (562 m), offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and forested valleys.
• Pleasant Flat – A scenic picnic spot with a swing bridge over the Haast River, surrounded by towering mountains.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least half a day to drive the pass one way, including short stops at the key viewpoints and walks. To fully appreciate the area, allow a full day to explore several of the short trails and have a picnic lunch. If you're combining it with a larger itinerary, the pass itself is a 2–3 hour drive from either Wanaka or the West Coast, so it's often done as a scenic leg between destinations.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka – A vibrant lakeside town with great cafes, hiking, and the famous #ThatWanakaTree.
• Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers – Iconic glaciers on the West Coast, accessible via guided walks or helicopter tours.
• Makarora – A small settlement at the eastern end of the pass, with a pub and basic accommodation.
• West Coast’s Ship Creek – A short walk through nikau palm forest to a wild beach, just south of the pass.
• Mount Aspiring National Park – The park's northern reaches are accessed via the pass, with superb tramping routes like the Routeburn Track.

Please check official sources for current details.