Haast Township

Haast Township, a tiny settlement on the wild West Coast of the South Island, is the gateway to the dramatic landscapes of South Westland. Surrounded by ancient rainforest, rugged coastline, and the towering Southern Alps, this remote outpost offers a raw, untamed beauty that feels a world away from the beaten track. It's a place where you can experience the power of nature, from thundering waterfalls to windswept beaches, and where the hospitality of the locals is as warm as the region's famous whitebait fritters.

Highlights & What to See

• Haast River: Drive the spectacular Haast Pass Highway, which winds through lush rainforest and past sparkling blue pools. Stop at the Thunder Creek Falls and Fantail Falls for short walks to cascading waterfalls.
• Haast Beach: Wander along the wild, driftwood-strewn beach where the Tasman Sea meets the river mouth. In season, you might spot whitebaiters scooping up the tiny fish from the shore.
• Monro Beach Walk: A 30-minute walk through coastal forest leads to a remote beach where you can sometimes see Fiordland crested penguins (May to November).
• Ship Creek: Just north of Haast, this area offers two short walks: one through a dune lake and swamp forest, the other along a windswept beach with views of the Alps.
• Haast Visitor Centre: Learn about the area's unique geology, wildlife, and Māori history. The centre also provides up-to-date road and weather conditions.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers pass through Haast as a stopover on the journey between the West Coast and Wanaka/Queenstown. Plan for at least 2–4 hours to stretch your legs, take a short walk, and grab a bite. If you're keen on exploring the area's walks and beaches, consider staying overnight. One night allows you to do the Monro Beach walk in the evening or early morning, plus a longer tramp like the Haast River Track.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Haast Pass / Makarora: The drive over Haast Pass is an attraction in itself, with numerous viewpoints and short walks. The small settlement of Makarora at the eastern end offers jet boat tours and access to the Makarora River.
• Jackson Bay: A 40-minute drive south of Haast, this tiny fishing village is the end of the road. Enjoy fresh whitebait fritters at the Jackson Bay Wharf and soak in the serene coastal views.
• Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers: About 2 hours north of Haast, these famous glaciers are a must-see. You can take heli-hikes or simply walk to the terminal faces.
• Wanaka: A scenic 2-hour drive east over the Haast Pass, Wanaka offers a vibrant lakefront town with excellent hiking, biking, and dining.

Please check official sources for current details.