Gates of Haast

Haast Pass is a stunning mountain pass located in the Southern Alps of the South Island of New Zealand.

The Maori name for the trail that leads through Haast Pass is Tiora-patea, which means 'the way is clear'. The pass was named after Julius von Haast, a 19th-century explorer who also served as provincial geologist for the provincial government of Canterbury. Following the passage of the Ngai Tahu Claims Settlement Act 1998, the name of the pass was officially altered to Haast Pass / Tioripatea. The pass lies within the limits of Mount Aspiring National Park and forms part of the boundary between the Otago and West Coast regions.

Haast Pass is a popular destination for tourists, and there are many things to see and do in the area. Short walks begin at the road's edge, leading you through rainforest to fabulous waterfalls. Makarora, at the northern tip of Lake Wanaka, is a launching point for several multi-day walks in Mount Aspiring National Park. A number of shorter walks begin at the highway's edge between Makarora to Haast. Favourites include walks to the Blue Pools, Fantail Falls, Thunder Creek Falls and Roaring Billy. At the Gates of Haast gorge, many travellers stop to photograph the wild water as it crashes over the river boulders.

The Gates of Haast is a fancy name for the gorge where the road crosses from one side of the river to the other as you head up or down the pass. It is a stunning panoramic mountain view with the Haast River cascading through a deep gorge. The road that links central New Zealand to the West Coast is more than just a connecting route. It’s a road that snakes its way to adventures that lay in wait of discovery. There are so many things to see along the Haast Pass, it’s a road that deserves a day trip of its own. Allow plenty of time to journey over Haast Pass to the coast.

In summary, Haast Pass is a must-see destination for anyone visiting New Zealand. With its stunning scenery, waterfalls, and walks, it is a nature lover's paradise. The Gates of Haast is a particular highlight, offering a breathtaking view of the Haast River cascading through a deep gorge. Whether you're looking for a day trip or a multi-day adventure, Haast Pass has something for everyone. The Haast Pass is an unofficial name for the stretch of road that goes from Makarora along the Haast River to the village of Haast on the West Coast. The official name of the road is the Makarora road, and it forms part of Route 6, which is the longest single highway in New Zealand, taking you right across the country.