Stafford Bay
Introduction
Aerial view of Stafford Bay and Jackson's
Bay, South Westland
Situated south of Jackson Bay Okahu, Stafford Bay is along an old road constructed in 1876, and leading from Jackson Bay to the Smoothwater River, over Stafford Saddle and onto the Cascade Plateau.
Features
In 1875 there was a major attempt to move settlers into the area. At that time 12 families lived on the banks of the Smoothwater River. Two years later all the families had moved on, driven away by wet weather, swampy soil, big rivers and the lack of a wharf.
In 1972 the site was a deer-hunting base and the Stafford Hut was flown in. Carcasses were stored in a freezer beside the hut and flown out regularly by helicopter.
Location
Approximately 50 km south of the Haast Junction you will find Stafford Bay signposted at a roadside car park 500 m before the Jackson Bay wharf.
Places to stay
Stafford Hut is a basic hut and no fees are required but users should leave it clean and tidy. Be warned the hut is prone to flooding when swollen rivers combine with high tides.
Grassy flats nearby are suitable for camping.
Plan and prepare
Waterways on the West Coast rise and fall very quickly and you are advised not to attempt crossing any waterway in heavy rain. Wait until water levels drop before proceeding!
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