Haast

Haast is a tiny settlement on the wild West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, where the untamed Tasman Sea meets lush rainforest and snow-capped mountains. It's the gateway to the remote and spectacular World Heritage-listed Te Wāhipounamu, offering a raw, rugged beauty that feels a world away from civilization. Here, you'll find some of the country's most dramatic coastal scenery, ancient forests, and abundant wildlife—all without the crowds.

Highlights & What to See

• Haast Pass – Drive this legendary alpine pass through beech forest and past waterfalls; stop at the Blue Pools for a short walk to impossibly clear turquoise waters.
• Ship Creek – A short walk through dense rainforest to a wild, driftwood-strewn beach; keep an eye out for seals and penguins.
• Monro Beach – A secluded beach where you can spot Fiordland crested penguins (best at dusk) and enjoy the roar of the Tasman Sea.
• Jackson Bay – The end of the road on the West Coast, this tiny fishing village offers stunning views and the chance to see white-flippered penguins.
• Haast River Safari – A jet boat ride up the Haast River into the heart of the rainforest, with towering cliffs and waterfalls.
• Te Wāhipounamu – South West New Zealand World Heritage Area – The surrounding wilderness is a vast, pristine landscape of glaciers, fiords, and ancient forests—explore it via walking tracks or scenic flights.

Suggested Time to Spend

Haast is best as a one-night stop to break up the drive between the glaciers (Franz Josef/Fox) and Wanaka/Queenstown. With a full day, you can do the key short walks (Ship Creek, Monro Beach, Blue Pools) and a jet boat ride. If you're short on time, even a few hours to stretch your legs at Ship Creek and Haast Pass is worthwhile.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers – About 90 minutes north, these iconic glaciers offer heli-hikes and valley walks.
• Wanaka – A scenic 1.5-hour drive over the Haast Pass leads to this beautiful lakeside town with excellent hiking and dining.
• Lake Matheson – Famous for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, a short detour from Fox Glacier.
• Bruce Bay – A wild, beautiful beach with white sand and driftwood sculptures, perfect for a photo stop.
• Knight's Point Lookout – A stunning viewpoint overlooking the rugged coastline, just north of Haast.

Please check official sources for current details.