Haast

Haast is a remote settlement on the wild West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, where the rainforest meets the Tasman Sea. It's the gateway to the World Heritage-listed Te Wāhipounamu and a must-stop on the drive between Wanaka and the Glaciers. The area is raw, untamed, and dripping with ancient podocarp forests, roaring rivers, and dramatic coastline.

Highlights & What to See

• Haast Pass – Drive this scenic mountain pass for breathtaking views of waterfalls, beech forests, and braided rivers.
• Thunder Creek Falls – A short walk leads to this powerful 28m waterfall, a classic photo stop.
• Blue Pools – Crystal-clear turquoise water in a forested gorge; cross the swing bridge for the best view.
• Jackson Bay – A tiny fishing village at the end of the road; spot seals and enjoy fish and chips by the water.
• Haast River – Jet boat tours offer an exhilarating ride through the remote wilderness.
• Ship Creek – A short walk through dune forest to a wild beach; keep an eye out for dolphins.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors pass through Haast in a day as part of the drive from Wanaka to Franz Josef. However, to truly appreciate the wilderness, plan for a full day to take short walks, visit Jackson Bay, and perhaps take a jet boat ride. Overnight stays are limited but allow for early morning wildlife spotting.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka – A vibrant lakeside town with hiking, skiing, and dining, about 2 hours east.
• Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers – Iconic glaciers with heli-hikes and ice walks, 1.5–2 hours north.
• Haast Pass / Makarora – The eastern side of the pass offers more waterfalls and the Makarora River.
• West Coast Glaciers – Combine with a visit to Lake Matheson for mirror reflections of the peaks.

Please check official sources for current details.