Haast

Haast is a remote settlement on the wild West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, where the Tasman Sea crashes against ancient rainforests and glaciers. It's the gateway to the Haast Pass, a dramatic alpine route connecting Otago to the Coast, and a must-stop for anyone seeking raw, untamed nature. Here, you'll find world-class trout fishing, seal colonies, and some of the most accessible glacier-viewing in the country.

Highlights & What to See

• Haast Pass / Tiora – Drive this stunning mountain pass with cascading waterfalls, turquoise pools, and short walks through podocarp forest. Stop at Fantail Falls and Thunder Creek Falls for quick photo ops.
• Haast River – World-renowned for brown trout fishing; join a guided jet-boat safari or try fly-fishing in the crystal-clear waters.
• Ship Creek – A 20-minute walk through dune forest to a wild beach; in winter, spot elephant seals and sea lions lounging on the sand.
• Monro Beach – A gentle coastal track leading to a secluded beach where Fiordland crested penguins come ashore to nest (best at dusk).
• Jackson Bay – The end of the road; watch fishermen unload their catch and enjoy fresh whitebait fritters at the historic Jackson Bay Wharf.
• Haast Visitor Centre – Excellent interpretive displays on the area's geology, Māori history, and pioneering past.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travelers spend one full day driving the Haast Pass and exploring the coastal highlights. If you're a keen angler or hiker, add a second day to fish the rivers or tackle the longer walks like the Gates of Haast. The settlement itself has basic accommodation and a pub, making it a convenient overnight stop between Wanaka and the glaciers.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka – A scenic 1.5-hour drive over the Haast Pass; a lively lakeside town with hiking, biking, and the famous #ThatWanakaTree.
• Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers – About 1.5–2 hours north; book a heli-hike or walk to the terminal faces for an up-close glacier experience.
• Gibbston Valley – South of Haast (via Wanaka), this wine region offers cellar doors, cheese tasting, and the Gibbston River Trail.
• Lake Moeraki – A short drive north; kayak on the lake or take a night-time kiwi spotting tour with Wilderness Lodge.

Please check official sources for current details.