South Island route
Wanaka to Haast drive
Wanaka to Haast is about 2 hours (145 km) by car, via Haast Pass lookout and Thunder Creek Falls. Sealed. Haast Pass (mountain pass); winding. One of the South Island’s most scenic drives.
- Distance
- 145 km
- Drive time
- 2 hours
- Best time
- Year-round
- Stops
- Haast Pass lookout, Thunder Creek Falls
Last updated 17 September 2026
The drive from Wanaka to Haast climbs over the Haast Pass through Mount Aspiring National Park and follows the Haast River to the coast — a short but tightly scenic leg past the Blue Pools and a string of waterfalls. Here’s the distance, time, best stops, and tips.
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Quick facts
Distance
145 km (approx)
Drive time
2 hours (approx)
Best time to go
Year-round. Haast Pass can be affected by snow in winter; check conditions.
Route character: Sealed. Haast Pass (mountain pass); winding. One of the South Island’s most scenic drives.
Suits couples, families, and anyone planning a proper South Island loop.
Why this drive is special
The drive from Wanaka to Haast climbs over the Haast Pass through Mount Aspiring National Park and follows the Haast River to the coast — a short but tightly scenic leg past the Blue Pools and a string of waterfalls. Here’s the distance, time, best stops, and tips.
Highlights along the way
- Haast Pass and Mount Aspiring National Park
- Thunder Creek Falls and other waterfalls
- Haast River and coast
Cars for this route
Long touring, passes, and comfort on the road — pick what fits your pace.
Which vehicle for the Haast back country
The Haast Pass highway is sealed the whole way. If you plan to branch onto the unsealed side roads and remote tracks off it, a light 4WD handles the loose surface and clearance better than a low car. Jimny Rentals hires compact Suzuki Jimnys for that kind of driving.
Jimny Rentals
Light, capable 4WD Suzuki Jimnys made for gravel, high country and ski-access roads.
Jimny Rentals and Dream Drives are operated by the same team.
Best stops along the way
Wanaka
Fuel and supplies. Last major town.
Best for: Fuel, Supplies
Haast Pass lookout
Views and short walks.
Best for: Photos, Walks
Thunder Creek Falls
Short walk to waterfall.
Best for: Quick stop, Photos
Haast
Coast; fuel and visitor centre.
Best for: Fuel, Info
Driving tips
- Fuel in Wanaka; then at Haast. Limited options in between. Fill up before the pass.
- Haast Pass can be affected by snow in winter; check NZTA. Times vary with stops, weather and roadworks.
- Allow around 2 hours plus stops — the Blue Pools walk and roadside waterfalls are worth the extra time.
Times vary with stops, weather, and roadworks. Check NZTA for road conditions.
Turn this leg into a trip
This drive is one leg of a wider South Island route. Plan the full South Island trip, then choose the car for it: Seven-seat Mercedes V-Class, Queenstown pickup.
Nearby drives
Continue your South Island journey with a connecting leg.
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