Haast Town

Haast Town is a tiny settlement on the wild West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, serving as the gateway to the World Heritage-listed Te Wāhipounamu region. It's a place where the roar of the Tasman Sea meets the lush rainforest of the Haast River valley, offering a raw, untamed beauty. The town itself is a laid-back cluster of motels, a pub, and a general store, but its surroundings are spectacular: think towering waterfalls, ancient glaciers, and remote beaches strewn with driftwood and sea lions.

Highlights & What to See

• Haast River: Take a scenic jet boat ride or kayak down this braided river, with views of the Southern Alps and native bush.
• Ship Creek: A short walk through dune forest leads to a wild beach, with a swing bridge over the creek and a chance to spot fur seals.
• Thunder Creek Falls: A 28-metre waterfall just a short walk from the highway, easily accessible and impressive after rain.
• Haast Beach: A rugged, windswept beach where you can walk for miles; look for yellow-eyed penguins and sea lions.
• Jackson Bay: The end of the road on the West Coast – a tiny fishing village with a beautiful pebble beach and the famous Cray Pot restaurant.
• Haast Pass: Drive the scenic highway over the pass, stopping at Blue Pools, Fantail Falls, and the Gates of Haast.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers pass through Haast Town as part of a road trip between Wanaka and the Glaciers. Allocate at least half a day to explore the immediate attractions like Ship Creek and Thunder Creek Falls, plus an hour or two for a jet boat ride or a walk on Haast Beach. If you're planning to drive the Haast Pass, budget a full day to include stops at the key viewpoints and short walks. Overnight stays are common for those wanting to break the journey or explore the remote coastline.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Haast Pass: The scenic alpine route connecting the West Coast to Wanaka, with numerous waterfalls and short walks.
• Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers: Two of New Zealand's most accessible glaciers, about 1.5 hours north, offering heli-hikes and ice walks.
• Wanaka: A stunning lakeside town 2.5 hours east over the pass, with outdoor activities and the famous #ThatWanakaTree.
• Lake Moeraki: A serene lake surrounded by native forest, home to the eco-friendly Wilderness Lodge and glowworm grotto.
• South Westland Salmon Farm: A working salmon farm near Haast where you can feed the fish and buy fresh smoked salmon.

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