Jackson Bay Okahu walks

Track category

Walking track

Description

Smoothwater Bay Track

Time: 1 hr 30 min - 2 hr

This track offers a variety of terrain. For the first 45 minutes it follows an old pioneer's track until the Smoothwater River is reached. The more adventurous will continue down this clear-flowing river, keeping to the riverbed. The reward for 40 minutes of wet feet is the beauty and solitude of Smoothwater Bay. Sturdy footwear recommended.

Jackson Bay. Photo: Bruce Postill.
Jackson Bay

Wharekai-Te Kou Walk

Time: 20 min

Walk from sheltered Jackson Bay to the rocky shore at Ocean Beach. Interpretion panels tell stories about tidal pools and the life of the rocky shore. Please leave shellfish untouched for others to see.

Getting there

At Haast township turn right along Jackson Bay Road. Walks are signposted as you travel to Jackson Head.

Weather

NZ weather

Maps

New Zealand topographic maps are available from DOC Visitor Centres

Learn more

Track category definitions

Plan and prepare for your trip

Great Walks

Stop the spread of didymo
Check, Clean, Dry
all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.

Safety

Follow the Outdoor Safety Code:
1. Plan your trip
2. Tell someone
3. Be aware of the weather
4. Know your limits
5. Take sufficient supplies

Safety alerts for West Coast tracks

Contacts

Haast Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 3 750 0809
Address: Haast Junction
Corner SH6 and Jackson Bay Road
Haast
South Westland
Email: haastvc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details
Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 3 752 0796
Address: 13 State Highway 6
Franz Josef Glacier 7856
Email: westlandnpvc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details

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Conservation for prosperity. Tiakina te taiao, kia puawai