Haast Township

Perched on the edge of the wild West Coast, Haast Township is a tiny settlement that serves as the gateway to the World Heritage-listed Te Wāhipounamu. With the Tasman Sea crashing against rugged shores and the Southern Alps looming inland, this is a place where nature rules. The town itself is unpretentious, offering basic amenities and a handful of accommodations, but its real draw is the raw, untamed wilderness that surrounds it. Here, you can explore ancient rainforests, spot rare wildlife, and witness the power of the ocean at every turn.

Highlights & What to See

• Haast River – The braided Haast River is a stunning sight, especially from the bridges on the highway. Stop at the Haast River Lookout for panoramic views of the river valley and mountains.
• Knight's Point Lookout – A dramatic coastal viewpoint where the road meets the sea. On a clear day, you can see the rugged coastline stretching north and south.
• Monro Beach Walk – A 30-minute forest walk leads to a remote beach where you might spot Fiordland crested penguins (July–November) and New Zealand fur seals.
• Haast Pass – Drive the scenic Haast Pass (SH6) through the Southern Alps, with stops at Fantail Falls, Thunder Creek Falls, and the Blue Pools.
• Jackson Bay – A tiny fishing village 30 km south of Haast, offering a peaceful beach and the famous Jackson Bay Fishermen's Shed for fresh whitebait patties (seasonal).
• Ship Creek – A short walk through a dense kahikatea swamp forest leads to a wild beach with dramatic driftwood sculptures.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travelers pass through Haast in a day, using it as a stopover between the glaciers and Queenstown or Wanaka. To truly appreciate the area, plan for at least one full day (two nights) to explore the walks, beaches, and the Haast Pass. If you're short on time, prioritize the Haast River lookout and a coastal walk like Monro Beach or Ship Creek.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers – 1.5 hours north, these iconic glaciers offer heli-hikes and valley walks.
• Wanaka – 2.5 hours east via the scenic Haast Pass, with a beautiful lake and mountain town.
• Queenstown – 4 hours southeast, the adventure capital of New Zealand.
• West Coast Glaciers – Explore the wider Glacier Country, including Lake Matheson and the Okarito Lagoon.
• Fiordland National Park – 2.5 hours south, home to Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound.

Please check official sources for current details.