Haast

Haast is a tiny settlement on the wild West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, where the rugged Southern Alps meet the Tasman Sea. It's the gateway to the World Heritage-listed Te Wahipounamu and a place where untamed nature reigns—think dense rainforest, roaring rivers, and dramatic coastal scenery. This is a stop for those who crave solitude and raw beauty, with a handful of walks, fishing spots, and a fascinating gold-mining history.

Highlights & What to See

• Haast River – A braided river perfect for jet-boat rides or simply admiring the turquoise waters from the bridge. Fishing for salmon and trout is also popular.
• Haast Pass – One of the three alpine passes crossing the Southern Alps, offering a scenic drive with short walks to waterfalls like Fantail Falls and Thunder Creek Falls.
• Ship Creek – A short coastal walk through ancient dune forest to a wild beach, with a viewing platform for seabirds and seals.
• Jackson Bay – A remote fishing village at the end of the road, where you can enjoy fresh whitebait fritters at the Cray Pot Café and watch fishing boats come in.
• Bruce Bay – A stunning stretch of black sand beach famous for its driftwood art and sea lion sightings.
• Monro Beach Walk – A forest walk leading to a secluded beach where Fiordland crested penguins nest (best viewed at dusk, October–February).

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors pass through Haast in a day as part of a larger West Coast road trip, but to truly appreciate the area, plan for an overnight stay. Spend one full day exploring the highlights: a morning walk at Ship Creek, an afternoon drive over Haast Pass with short stops at waterfalls, and an evening at Jackson Bay for dinner. If you're keen on fishing or longer hikes, add another day.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Franz Josef Glacier – About 140 km north, this famous glacier offers heli-hikes and ice walks, with a vibrant tourist town for accommodation and dining.
• Fox Glacier – Slightly closer (120 km), with similar glacier experiences and the stunning Lake Matheson for mirror reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook.
• Punakaiki – Further north (200 km), home to the Pancake Rocks and blowholes, a must-see geological wonder.
• Hokitika – A charming town known for its pounamu (greenstone) carving, wild beaches, and the Hokitika Gorge with its brilliant blue water.

Please check official sources for current details.