Haast Pass

Haast Pass is a dramatic gateway between the West Coast's wild rainforests and the braided rivers of Central Otago, offering one of New Zealand's most scenic alpine drives. As you wind through the Southern Alps, the road passes waterfalls, ancient beech forests, and turquoise lakes, with plenty of pull-offs for short walks and photo stops.

Highlights & What to See

• Thunder Creek Falls – A powerful 28-metre waterfall just a short walk from the highway, perfect for a quick leg-stretch.
• Fantail Falls – A delicate cascade tumbling over schist rock, with a refreshing pool below for a dip on warm days.
• Blue Pools – A gentle walk leads to crystal-clear pools with impossibly blue water, fed by the Makarora River; a highlight for photographers.
• Haast Pass Summit – At 562 metres, the pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys; stop at the summit carpark for a photo.
• Gates of Haast – A series of rapids and gorges where the Haast River churns through narrow rock walls, visible from a short walking track.
• Pleasant Flat – A riverside picnic area with grassy flats and mountain views, ideal for a lunch break.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers drive the Haast Pass route (between Wanaka and the West Coast) in a single day, but allow at least 3–4 hours to include short walks and photo stops. If you're self-driving, plan to leave early to avoid afternoon clouds rolling in over the pass. For a more relaxed pace, consider an overnight stop in Makarora or Haast township to break up the journey.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka – A vibrant lakeside town with excellent cafes, galleries, and outdoor activities; the start or end point of the Haast Pass drive.
• Makarora – A small settlement just south of the pass, offering jet boat rides and access to the Young River.
• Haast Township – The gateway to the West Coast, with a visitor centre, pub, and access to coastal walks and glacial rivers.
• Jackson Bay – A remote fishing village with a stunning coastal drive and the southernmost wharf on the West Coast, great for seafood and sunsets.
• Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers – Iconic glaciers accessible from the West Coast side, about 1.5–2 hours north of Haast.

Please check official sources for current details.