Is hiking your thing? Are you looking to challenge yourself and take in New Zealand’s gorgeous scenery? Visit the Haast Pass on the West Coast to witness some of the most magnificent natural sights on the South Island!

Where can I start exploring Haast Pass?

Walking trails can be found at the edge of the road to start off your adventure, taking you through spectacular rainforest areas and towards stunning waterfalls.

The journey between the town of Wanaka and the West Coast is filled with stunning scenery in every inch! The route was originally a path for Maori who were travelling west in search for Jade. The lakes found in the journey were originally carved out by the Hawea and Wanaka Glaciers. There are two parts of the glaciers that teach outward and join together at a slim piece of land called The Neck.

The traditional Maori name for the walking trail that cuts through Haast Pass is ‘Tiora-patea’, which translates to ‘the way is clear’.

Located at the most northern point of Lake Wanaka, is Makarora, a starting point for numerous multi-day expeditions in the Mount Aspiring National Park several multi-day walks in Mount Aspiring National Park. There is also a variety of shorter length walks that start off on the highway’s edge begin at the highway’s edge between Makarora to Haast. Some of the most popular walks include trails to Fantail Falls, Roaring Billy, the Blue Pools, and Thunder Creek Falls.

  • Allow plenty of time to explore the pass
  • Come prepared with appropriate clothing and supplies
  • Take care on some parts of the trails as the conditions can vary due to the weather