Ship Creek Track

Ship Creek Track is a short but spectacular walk on the Wild West Coast, where ancient kahikatea swamp forest meets a wild, driftwood-strewn beach. This easy loop offers a glimpse into New Zealand's primeval past and the raw power of the Tasman Sea, all just a short detour from State Highway 6 between Franz Josef and Haast.

Highlights & What to See

• Kahikatea Swamp Forest Boardwalk – Wander through a dense stand of towering kahikatea (white pine), some over 800 years old, on a raised boardwalk that keeps your feet dry in this atmospheric wetland.
• Ship Creek Beach and Dunes – Follow the track to the windswept beach, where you can walk along the sand and watch powerful waves crash against the shore. Look for the distinctive greenstone (pounamu) pebbles and ancient tree stumps exposed at low tide.
• Interpretive Signs – Learn about the history of the area, including the legend of a shipwreck that gave the creek its name, and the unique ecology of the swamp forest.
• Birdlife – Keep an eye out for white herons (kotuku), royal spoonbills, and other native birds that frequent the wetlands and beach.
• Driftwood Sculptures – The beach is often dotted with intricate driftwood structures created by passing travellers – a fun photo opportunity.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 30 to 45 minutes for the full loop, including time to pause on the beach and soak in the views. This is a perfect quick stop to stretch your legs on a long drive – it's a 40-minute walk that packs a lot of atmosphere into a short distance. Combine it with a picnic or a coffee from the nearby Franz Josef township for a relaxed break.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Franz Josef Glacier – Just a 20-minute drive north, this famous glacier offers heli-hikes and valley walks through dramatic ice-carved landscapes.
• Lake Matheson – Famous for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, this easy loop walk is a must for photographers, about 30 minutes south.
• Haast Pass – Continue south along the scenic highway to explore waterfalls, blue pools, and the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park.
• Okarito Lagoon – A short detour north of Franz Josef, this tranquil lagoon is perfect for kayaking and birdwatching, with a chance to spot the rare white heron.
• Gillespies Beach – A wild, remote beach with a historic gold mining settlement and a seal colony, accessible via a gravel road from Franz Josef.

Please check official sources for current details.