Haast to Wanaka: A Scenic Drive through New Zealand’s Southern Alps
Haast to Wanaka is a popular scenic drive in New Zealand that takes travellers through some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country. The route covers approximately 140 kilometres and passes through the Southern Alps, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The journey begins in Haast, a small town on the west coast of the South Island, and winds its way through the Haast Pass, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Along the way, travellers can stop at various lookout points and take in the beauty of the landscape, or explore the many hiking trails that lead through the forests and hills.
As the route continues towards Wanaka, the scenery changes dramatically, with the snow-capped peaks giving way to rolling hills and crystal-clear lakes. Wanaka is a charming town nestled on the shores of Lake Wanaka, and is a popular destination for skiing, hiking, and water sports. Overall, Haast to Wanaka is a journey that offers something for everyone, and is a must-do for anyone visiting New Zealand.
Haast to Wanaka Road Trip
Overview
The Haast to Wanaka road trip is a scenic drive that takes travellers through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes. The journey covers a distance of approximately 140 km and can be completed in around two and a half hours. The drive takes travellers through the Haast Pass and Mount Aspiring National Park, offering stunning views of glaciers, waterfalls, and lakes along the way.
Transportation
Travellers can choose to drive from Haast to Wanaka in their own car or rent one from a local rental agency. Alternatively, there are bus services available from Haast to Wanaka, with GreatSights offering direct bus services at a reasonable price. Travellers can also opt for a commercial flight to Wanaka from Christchurch or Queenstown.
Scenic Route
The Haast to Wanaka road trip is a scenic route that offers travellers the opportunity to explore the West Coast and Mount Aspiring National Park. The drive takes travellers through the Haast Pass, with stunning views of the Tasman Sea and the Southern Alps. Along the way, travellers can stop at lookout points such as the Knights Point Lookout and Lake Wanaka Lookout to take in the breathtaking views.
Points of Interest
The road trip offers several points of interest for travellers to explore. The Blue Pools and Thunder Creek Falls are popular stops for tourists, offering crystal clear water and stunning views. The Roaring Billy and Roaring Billy Falls are also worth a visit, offering hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Travellers can also explore the Monro Beach and Ship Creek, which are popular spots for photography and drone flying. The Haast Visitor Centre is an excellent resource for travellers, providing information on the local area and hiking trails.
Itinerary
Travellers can start their journey in Haast and make their way to Wanaka via the Haast Pass. The drive takes travellers through the West Coast and Mount Aspiring National Park, with several stops along the way. Travellers can opt to spend a night in Franz Josef or Fox Glacier before continuing their journey to Wanaka. The drive takes around two and a half hours, but travellers should allow extra time for stops along the way.
Travel Tips
Travellers should be aware that the road can be narrow and winding in places, and caution should be taken when driving. Sandflies can be a problem in the summer months, so travellers should bring repellent. The weather can be unpredictable, and travellers should be prepared for freezing temperatures in the winter months. Swimming in the lakes and rivers is not recommended, and caution should be taken when crossing swing bridges. Travellers should also be aware of reflective pounamu stones on the highway, which can cause glare and be a hazard for drivers.
Transportation
Driving Directions
To get from Haast to Wanaka by car, take State Highway 6 south towards Makarora. After approximately 80 kilometres, turn right onto State Highway 6A towards Wanaka. This route takes you through the scenic Haast Pass and past beautiful Lake Hawea before arriving in Wanaka.
Bus Services
For those who do not wish to drive, there are several bus services available. GreatSights offers a direct bus service from Haast to Wanaka, with multiple departures per day. Alternatively, Rome2rio lists several other bus options with various departure times.
Travel Times
The drive from Haast to Wanaka takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes without stops. However, the stunning scenery along the way is worth taking some time to appreciate. The GreatSights bus service takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes, while other bus services may vary in travel time.
Overall, both driving and taking a bus are convenient options for travelling from Haast to Wanaka. It is important to note that road conditions can vary, especially during winter months, so it is recommended to check the weather forecast and road conditions before embarking on the journey.
Scenic Route
The Gates of Haast
The journey from Haast to Wanaka is one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand. The route starts at The Gates of Haast, a narrow gorge that marks the entrance to the Haast Pass. The gorge is surrounded by towering mountains and the crystal-clear waters of the Haast River. The road winds through the gorge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Haast Pass
After passing through The Gates of Haast, the road climbs steadily towards the Haast Pass. The pass is the highest point on the route, reaching an altitude of 563 metres. The road is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense forests. The pass is also home to a number of lookout points, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Lake Wanaka Lookout
As the road descends from the Haast Pass, it passes by Lake Wanaka. The lake is one of the most beautiful in New Zealand, with crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain views. The Lake Wanaka Lookout is a popular stop on the route, offering visitors a chance to take in the breathtaking scenery.
Wanaka Lavender Farm
The final stop on the route is the Wanaka Lavender Farm. The farm is located on the outskirts of Wanaka and is home to over 10,000 lavender plants. Visitors can take a guided tour of the farm, learn about the history of lavender cultivation in New Zealand and sample some of the farm’s lavender products.
Overall, the scenic route from Haast to Wanaka is a must-see for anyone visiting New Zealand. The route offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the country.
Points of Interest
Blue Pools
The Blue Pools are a must-see attraction on the Haast to Wanaka route. These crystal-clear pools are located in the Mount Aspiring National Park and are fed by glacial waters. Visitors can take a short walk from the car park to the pools and enjoy the stunning scenery. The water is so clear that visitors can see right to the bottom of the pools. The pools are surrounded by native beech forest and are a popular spot for swimming in the summer months.
Thunder Creek Falls
Thunder Creek Falls is another popular attraction on the Haast to Wanaka route. This waterfall is located just off the highway and is easily accessible. Visitors can take a short walk from the car park to the falls and enjoy the stunning views. The waterfall is 28 metres high and is fed by glacial waters from the Southern Alps. The falls are surrounded by native bush and are a great spot for a picnic.
Mount Aspiring National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park is a must-visit destination on the Haast to Wanaka route. This park is home to some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery, including glaciers, mountains, and rivers. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities in the park, including hiking, camping, and fishing. The park is also home to a range of native wildlife, including kea, tui, and kiwi.
Knights Point Lookout
The Knights Point Lookout is a popular stop on the Haast to Wanaka route. This lookout offers stunning views of the coastline and the Tasman Sea. Visitors can take a short walk from the car park to the lookout and enjoy the panoramic views. The lookout is also a great spot for whale watching during the winter months.
Monro Beach
Monro Beach is a beautiful, secluded beach on the Haast to Wanaka route. This beach is located in the Mount Aspiring National Park and is accessible via a short walk from the car park. The beach is surrounded by native bush and is a great spot for a picnic or a swim.
Overall, the Haast to Wanaka route offers visitors a range of stunning attractions, including the Blue Pools, Thunder Creek Falls, Mount Aspiring National Park, Knights Point Lookout, and Monro Beach. Whether you’re interested in hiking, sightseeing, or just relaxing, this route has something for everyone.
