Blue Pools

Deep in the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park, the Blue Pools are a dazzling natural wonder where the braided waters of the Makarora River converge in a series of crystal-clear, turquoise plunge pools. The short, easy walk to the pools is a rite of passage for anyone driving the Haast Pass Highway, offering a quintessential taste of New Zealand's wild South Island scenery.

Highlights & What to See

• Vivid Turquoise Waters: The star attraction—astonishingly clear, blue-green water fed by glacial melt. On a sunny day, the colour is almost unreal.
• Swing Bridge & Forest Walk: Cross a swinging bridge over the Makarora River, then follow a well-graded track through lush beech forest alive with birdlife.
• Viewing Platforms: Peer down into the deep pools from wooden platforms; on calm days you'll see large trout gliding beneath the surface.
• Wild Swimming: Brave the chilly waters for an invigorating dip—the pools are deep and refreshing, but always check conditions first.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate 1 to 1.5 hours for the return walk from the carpark, plus extra time to linger at the pools. The track is short (about 1.5 km each way) and mostly flat, making it a perfect quick stop on a road trip. Visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka: The charming lakeside town is your base for the region, with excellent cafes, restaurants, and the famous #ThatWanakaTree.
• Roy's Peak: For a challenging reward, hike this iconic peak for panoramic views over Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps.
• Haast Pass & Thunder Creek Falls: Continue south on State Highway 6 to see more waterfalls and wild coastline.
• Makarora: A tiny settlement with a pub and basic supplies, ideal for a pit stop before or after the walk.

Please check official sources for current details.