Knights Point

Knights Point is a dramatic coastal lookout on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, where the Tasman Sea crashes against rugged cliffs and the Southern Alps loom in the distance. This is one of the most spectacular viewpoints along the Haast Highway, offering a glimpse into the raw, untamed beauty of the region. Named after a pioneer surveyor, the point is a must-stop for anyone driving between Haast and Fox Glacier, with panoramic views that stretch from the dense rainforest to the open ocean.

Highlights & What to See

• Coastal Lookout: The main viewing platform provides sweeping vistas of the coastline, with waves pounding the rocky shore and, on clear days, the distant peaks of the Southern Alps.
• Interpretive Panels: Learn about the area’s geological history, Māori legends, and the early European explorers who charted this wild coast.
• Short Walk: A brief, easy trail leads from the carpark to the lookout, winding through coastal scrub and flax bushes, with opportunities to spot seabirds like gulls and shags.
• Photography: The dramatic light and rugged scenery make this a prime spot for capturing the West Coast’s wild character, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• Nearby Haast River: Just a short drive away, the Haast River mouth offers a different perspective, with braided river channels meeting the sea.

Suggested Time to Spend

Knights Point is a quick stop, best enjoyed as part of a day’s drive along the Haast Highway. Allocate 20–30 minutes to walk to the lookout, read the panels, and soak in the views. Most visitors spend 15–20 minutes here, but photographers may want to linger longer for the perfect light. It’s an ideal leg-stretcher between longer drives, and pairs well with a picnic if you’ve packed supplies.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Haast: The small settlement is a gateway to the Haast World Heritage Area, with walks like the Munro Beach Track and the Haast River Safari.
• Ship Creek: A short drive south, this spot features a kahikatea swamp forest walk and a wild beach, perfect for a longer nature stop.
• Jackson Bay: A remote coastal hamlet with a historic wharf and a café serving fresh whitebait fritters – a true West Coast experience.
• Fox Glacier: About 90 minutes north, the glacier offers guided walks and heli-hikes, plus the nearby Lake Matheson for mirror reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook.
• Haast Pass: The scenic mountain pass leads to Wanaka and the Otago region, with waterfalls and short walks like the Blue Pools Track.

Please check official sources for current details.