Haast Pass

Haast Pass is one of New Zealand's most dramatic mountain passes, slicing through the Southern Alps to connect the lakes district of Wanaka with the wild West Coast. This is a journey of shifting landscapes: from beech forests and braided rivers to alpine tarns and cascading waterfalls. The road is an adventure in itself, with one-lane bridges and sudden weather changes, but the rewards are immense — untouched wilderness, short walks to thundering falls, and a palpable sense of being on the edge of the world.

Highlights & What to See

• Thunder Creek Falls — a 28m waterfall just steps from the road, with a short, wheelchair-friendly track through lush rainforest.
• Fantail Falls — a delicate, fan-shaped cascade that plunges into a clear pool, perfect for a quick dip on a warm day.
• Blue Pools — a gentle 30-minute walk leads to impossibly turquoise waters, fed by glacial melt; look for trout in the crystal-clear river.
• The Gates of Haast — a dramatic gorge where the Haast River forces its way through narrow rock walls; a short viewing platform offers superb photo ops.
• Brewster Glacier View — a more challenging tramp (2-3 hours return) rewards with close-up views of the hanging glacier and alpine tarns.
• Haast Pass Summit — at 562m, the actual pass is marked by a simple sign and offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers drive the Haast Pass in a day, either as a round trip from Wanaka or as part of a one-way journey to the West Coast. To truly appreciate the scenery, allow at least 4-5 hours for the drive and short walks — longer if you plan to tackle the Brewster Glacier Track. Start early to avoid afternoon cloud and to enjoy the best light on the waterfalls. If you're crossing from Wanaka to the coast, consider an overnight stop in Haast township to break up the journey.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka — the gateway to Haast Pass, with its lakefront, hiking trails, and the famous Wanaka Tree; a perfect base before or after the crossing.
• Roys Peak — one of New Zealand's most iconic day hikes, offering panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains; best done from Wanaka.
• That Wanaka Tree — a lone willow in Lake Wanaka, one of the most photographed trees in the world; just a short walk from the town centre.
• Haast Township — a small settlement at the western end of the pass, with a handful of accommodations, a pub, and access to the wild beaches of the West Coast.
• Jackson Bay — a scenic coastal drive from Haast, where you can spot fur seals and enjoy fresh whitebait fritters at the historic wharf.

Please check official sources for current details.