Haast: Forest Walks and River Safaris

Haast combines native forest, river trips and a landscape on the edge of the UNESCO-recognised Te Wāhipounamu – South West New Zealand World Heritage Area. Haast is described there as the last visible human influence. The town is also part of the Department of Conservation’s kiwi conservation programme. Fiordland crested penguins (tawaki) are also frequently sighted in Haast; sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed.

Forest and wildlife on the Kōkako Track

The Kōkako Track starts in Haast Township and follows a disused logging road through native forest to Haast Beach. The trailhead is at the car park at the end of Tahutahi Road. The track is 5.5 kilometres each way; most people can travel it on foot or by bike. Tall rimu and rata trees grow in the swamp forest, among ferns and other vegetation. You may hear tūī and bellbirds singing along the track, although bird calls and sightings naturally vary. The Kōkako Walk/Cycleway is wheelchair accessible; check track conditions and accessibility before your visit. Dogs are permitted on the track with a permit, which can be issued at the DOC Haast Visitor Centre. Check the permit requirements again before your trip. The track also has a community-run trapline to control invasive rats and stoats.

Two river safaris, different highlights

The Haast River Safari offers river trips in fully enclosed jet boats in the South Westland World Heritage Area. Before boarding, a short bush track leads to the riverbank; boats are boarded step-free from the front. On the trip, you cross the Alpine Fault, travel through subtropical rainforest and pass ancient kahikatea stands. You also have the opportunity to get out of the boat and enjoy the views.

The Waiatoto River Safari is a jet boat safari lasting more than two hours on the Waiatoto River into Haast’s remote backcountry. Your boat has a removable roof that provides shelter in the rain and panoramic views in the sunshine. The tour offers the opportunity to go ashore and try whitebait. It is family-friendly, suitable for all ages and wheelchair accessible; confirm accessibility arrangements before booking. Also check current departure times, facilities and tour inclusions before booking.

The difference between the safaris comes down to their highlights: the Haast River Safari combines the river with the Alpine Fault and rainforest, while the Waiatoto River Safari travels farther into the remote backcountry and offers the opportunity to try whitebait.

Whitebait and finding accommodation

Whitebait patties are offered as a local speciality at the Curly Tree Whitebait Company in Haast. If you’d like to try them, check current availability in advance.

If you want the Kōkako Track or river trips to shape your trip, select Haast as your hotel search destination.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Franz Josef Glacier, Kokatahi, Ross, Hokitika, Fox Glacier, Whataroa, Ōtira, Ōkārito.

Return to the main travel overview: Westland District.