Haast Walks

There are so many hikes and trails to choose from that time is your only limiting factor. From full-on multi-day tramps to a ten-minute amble to a picturesque spot, you will find a West Coast walk to suit your ability and time frame.

For detailed information, download the Department of Conservation Haast Walks brochure

Monro Beach Walk

Time: 1 hr 30 min, return
Distance: 4.7 km return

Skill level: Easy.

An easy walk through luxuriant coastal forest to the remote Monro Beach just north of Knights Point. In spring, you may see Fiordland crested penguins/tawaki in the surf and on the beach. Take care not to disturb these rare birds.

For more information click here

Ship Creek - option of two walks

Duration: 30 minutes.

Skill level: Easy.

There are two walks that leave from the picnic area. Experience an ancient kahikatea forest walk or head through wind-shorn coastal forest to a dune lake.

Jackson Bay Walks

Smoothwater Bay Walk

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Skill level: Moderate.

Follows old pioneer’s track and then riverbed back to stunning beach coastline.

Wharekai - Te Kou Walk

Duration: 20 minutes.

Skill level: Easy.

Walk from sheltered Jackson Bay to the rocky shore at Ocean Beach.

Haast Highway Walks

Thunder Creek Falls

Duration: 5 minutes.

Skill level: Easy.

This easy walk is located adjacent to the Haast Highway and follows a sealed track to the spectacular 96m high Thunder Creek Falls.

Blue Pools Walk

Duration: 30 minutes.

Skill level: Easy.

At the crest of Haast Pass surrounded by forest enjoy this gentle walk to a swing bridge and pristine river pools.

For more information on West Coast Walks please visit:

• DOC: West Coast Walks