Roaring Billy Track

Roaring Billy Track is a short, rewarding walk on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, offering a glimpse into the region's lush temperate rainforest and powerful rivers. The trail leads to a viewing platform overlooking the Roaring Billy waterfall, where the Haast River cascades over a rocky ledge. The walk is flat and easy, suitable for most fitness levels, and takes you through dense native bush with ferns, mosses, and towering kahikatea trees. The sound of rushing water builds as you approach the falls, culminating in a misty spectacle that epitomizes the wild beauty of the West Coast.

Highlights & What to See

• Roaring Billy Waterfall: A wide, powerful cascade that plunges into the Haast River, best viewed from the platform after rain when the flow is strongest.
• Native Rainforest: The track meanders through pristine podocarp forest, with interpretive signs explaining the ecology and history of the area.
• Haast River: The turquoise waters of the Haast River are visible from the track, contrasting with the dense green vegetation.
• Birdlife: Keep an eye out for native birds like the fantail, tomtit, and bellbird, which are common in this habitat.
• Short & Accessible: The track is only 20 minutes return, making it a perfect quick stop for families or those short on time.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 30–45 minutes for the return walk, including time to enjoy the waterfall and read the informational panels. The track is best done as a short detour while driving the Haast Pass Highway (State Highway 6). If you're traveling between Wanaka and the West Coast, plan to stop here for a leg stretch and photo opportunity.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Haast Pass: The scenic mountain pass offers numerous pull-offs, short walks, and viewpoints, including the Blue Pools Walk and Fantail Falls.
• Haast: The small settlement of Haast is the gateway to the region, with cafes, a visitor centre, and the Haast River Safari jet boat tours.
• Ship Creek: Just north of Haast, this coastal walk features a dramatic beach and a dune lake, with two short loop tracks through kahikatea swamp forest.
• Jackson Bay: A remote fishing village at the end of the road, offering stunning coastal views and fresh whitebait patties at the local café.
• Wanaka: About 2 hours east over the Haast Pass, Wanaka is a vibrant lakeside town with hiking, skiing, and dining options.

Please check official sources for current details.