Blue Pools Haast Pass New Zealand
Experience the surreal, vibrant blue of glacier-fed pools on a scenic walk through native New Zealand forest.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Blue Pools Haast Pass New Zealand
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the surreal, vibrant blue of glacier-fed pools on a scenic walk through native New Zealand forest.
"Glacier-fed pools so clear they look fake, but they're freezing and the sandflies are ruthless."
Pack Insect Repellent
Sandflies are notorious here! Bring strong repellent to enjoy your visit without constant bites. :bug:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk is well-maintained, but good walking shoes are recommended for comfort and grip. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Blue Pools
Haast Pass-Makarora Road
Glacier-fed pools with unbelievably clear, vibrant blue water. A truly surreal natural wonder.
Native Forest Walk
Track to the Blue Pools
A scenic 20-30 minute walk through lush native forest, featuring swing bridges and birdlife.
Wilson Creek Chasm
Near Blue Pools
An otherworldly, lush creek chasm that feels like a hidden discovery. Not on all maps!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Sandflies & Swims
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Insect Repellent
Sandflies are notorious here! Bring strong repellent to enjoy your visit without constant bites. :bug:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk is well-maintained, but good walking shoes are recommended for comfort and grip. :athletic_shoe:
Check Track Status
Tracks can sometimes close due to maintenance or weather. Check local DOC updates before you go. :information_desk:
Bring a Camera
The vibrant blue water and surrounding forest are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Insect Repellent
Sandflies are notorious here! Bring strong repellent to enjoy your visit without constant bites. :bug:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk is well-maintained, but good walking shoes are recommended for comfort and grip. :athletic_shoe:
Check Track Status
Tracks can sometimes close due to maintenance or weather. Check local DOC updates before you go. :information_desk:
Bring a Camera
The vibrant blue water and surrounding forest are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:
Embrace the Cold
The water is glacier-fed and very cold! Perfect for a quick, bracing dip if you dare. :cold_face:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Blue Pools for their stunning, almost surreal blue water and the beautiful native forest walk. The easy accessibility and the unique glacial color make it a standout attraction on the Haast Pass Highway. Some reviewers noted that the water clarity can vary, and the toilets at the car park are basic, but these minor points do little to detract from the overall awe-inspiring experience.
"One of the most beautiful places I’ve wanted to visit. It takes about a 20-minute walk from the highway, and walking through the woods was my favorite part. Along the way, you’ll see plenty of birds and small animals. The water wasn’t very clear that day because it had rained the previous night, but I still enjoyed the visit. Both suspension bridges have been renovated, and the wooden walking path is excellent. There’s plenty of parking available, though the toilets were in poor condition and had a strong odor."
Chethana N. Mihiranga Nandasena
"This is favourite attraction in New Zealand, with the exception of Devil’s Punchbowl at Arthur’s Pass National Park.
Just to be clear, we visited this place sometime ago as it looks like part of the track is now closed to not mislead anyone.
The walk is a good length, 15-30 minutes depending on your speed and has two beautiful bridges with sights to Mount Aspiring National Park in full, a blue river and mountains.
I can only say do yourselves a favour, and visit as this spot is outstanding. I would also recommend visiting Thunder Creek Falls nearby, and Roaring Billy Falls."
Straan Wadsworth
"Lovely walk. Suitable for a day-walk on weekends. The new bridge and footpath are amazing. The drive from Lake Hawea to this track is beautiful."
Uyen Thu Vo (Joy)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Blue Pools are located on the Haast Pass-Makarora Road (State Highway 6) on New Zealand's South Island. It's a scenic drive between Wanaka and the West Coast. There's a dedicated car park, and the walk to the pools starts from there. 
Absolutely! The Haast Pass Highway is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, lush rainforests, and numerous waterfalls. It's a road trip highlight for many.
Yes, it's a popular stop for day-trippers. You can easily incorporate it into a drive between Wanaka and the West Coast, often visiting other nearby attractions like Thunder Creek Falls.
Yes, there is a car park available for visitors. It can get busy, especially during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.
The most common route is via State Highway 6, which connects Wanaka to the West Coast. The Blue Pools are well-signposted along this highway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Blue Pools and the walking track is free. It's part of Mount Aspiring National Park.
The Blue Pools are accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times for the walking track.
The track can occasionally close for maintenance or due to weather events. It's always a good idea to check the Department of Conservation (DOC) website for any alerts before your visit.
There is no entrance fee for Mount Aspiring National Park itself. Access to the Blue Pools track is free.
While the water is incredibly inviting, it is glacier-fed and extremely cold year-round. Some visitors take a quick dip, but be prepared for the shock!
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The walk from the car park to the main viewing area of the Blue Pools is approximately 20-30 minutes one way, depending on your pace.
The track is well-maintained with a mix of gravel paths and wooden boardwalks. It includes some gentle inclines and two swing bridges.
Yes, there are toilets located at the car park. However, reviews suggest they can be basic and may not always be in the best condition.
You might spot native New Zealand birds like fantails and other small forest birds along the walking track.
Yes, the walk is generally suitable for families with children. It's a relatively short and easy walk with interesting bridges to cross.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more ethereal glow on the water.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and vibrant blue water. Polarizing filters can help reduce glare and enhance the water's color.
Many visitors discover 'hidden' creek chasms and waterfalls along the Haast Pass Highway, often just off the main road between the Blue Pools and Thunder Creek Falls.
Use a tripod for sharper images, especially in lower light. Experiment with different angles to showcase the depth and clarity of the water.
Consider Thunder Creek Falls, Fantail Falls, and Roaring Billy Falls, all easily accessible along the Haast Pass Highway.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it part of a larger day trip along the Haast Pass Highway, incorporating other short walks like Thunder Creek Falls. This breaks up the journey and offers varied scenery, keeping younger travelers engaged.
🚗 Road Trippers
+1Allow ample time to enjoy the walk and the views. The drive itself is a major part of the experience, so don't rush. Be aware of the road conditions, especially in winter, and always check for any track closures before you set off.
📸 Photographers
+1Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the scale of the pools and surrounding forest. A polarizing filter can enhance the water's color and reduce reflections. Don't forget to explore the surrounding Haast Pass for other photographic opportunities, including hidden waterfalls and dramatic landscapes.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Haast Pass Highway: A Scenic Journey
+2Key stops along the way include the Blue Pools, Fantail Falls, Thunder Creek Falls, and the Ship Creek Walkway. Each offers a unique glimpse into the diverse landscapes of the region, from temperate rainforests to glacial rivers. The road itself is well-maintained but can be narrow and winding in places, so it's best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
Travelers often describe the Haast Pass as one of New Zealand's most scenic drives, with its dramatic mountain ranges, turquoise rivers, and dense native bush. It's a route that truly showcases the raw, untamed beauty of Aotearoa.
+1Understanding the Blue Pools' Unique Color
+1This phenomenon, combined with the purity of the water and the dark riverbed, creates the mesmerizing visual effect. The clarity is so exceptional that you can often see right to the bottom, observing the smooth stones and even small fish swimming in the frigid depths.
It's important to note that the water's clarity can be affected by heavy rainfall, which can stir up sediment. However, even on days when the water is not at its absolute clearest, the sheer beauty and unique color of the Blue Pools remain a captivating sight.
Beyond the Blue Pools: Hidden Gems
+2Wilson Creek Chasm is frequently mentioned as a particularly magical spot, described as otherworldly and lush. Other nearby waterfalls like Fantail Falls and Roaring Billy Falls are also easily accessible and worth a visit, offering different perspectives of the region's natural beauty.
+1Exploring these less-advertised locations can lead to unique experiences and stunning photographic opportunities, making your Haast Pass adventure even more memorable. Always be mindful of the environment and stick to marked paths where available.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit