Blue Pools Track

Out and back

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undeniable star of the show is the intensity of the blue. The water originates from melting glaciers high in the Southern Alps. As the ice grinds against rock, it creates "glacial flour"—fine particles that stay suspended in the water. When sunlight hits these particles, it scatters the light, creating that world-famous sapphire and turquoise hue.

The Swing Bridges are a highlight for many. They provide the perfect vantage point for photos, but they also offer a sense of adventure. If you aren't a fan of heights, don't worry—they are very secure, though the gentle bounce certainly reminds you that you’re suspended over a wild river!

Trout Spotting is another favourite pastime here. Because the water is so clear, you can often see large brown and rainbow trout hovering near the bottom of the pools, seemingly suspended in mid-air. It’s a testament to the purity of the environment that these fish thrive here.

For those who want to get their toes wet, there is a small track down to the riverbank just before the second bridge. Here, you’ll find the famous rock stacks (cairns) left by previous travellers and a stony beach where you can test your bravery. A refreshing dip in the pools is a rite of passage for some, but be warned: the water is glacial and sits at a bone-chilling temperature year-round. Even in the height of summer, it’s a "quick in, quick out" kind of experience!

Getting There

The Blue Pools Track is located near Makarora on the Haast Pass Highway (State Highway 6). It is approximately a one-hour drive from Wānaka or about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Haast.

The trailhead is very well-signposted. Look for the Blue Pools carpark, which is situated directly off the highway opposite the Cameron Flat campsite. The Department of Conservation (DOC) has recently expanded the parking area to accommodate the growing number of visitors, and you’ll find free parking and clean public toilets right at the start of the track.

Wildlife Spotting

While the water steals the spotlight, the forest is teeming with life. As you walk through the beech trees, keep your ears open for the melodic calls of the Bellbird (Korimako) and the iconic, boisterous song of the Tūī.

If you are very lucky and very quiet, you might spot the Mohua (Yellowhead). These small, bright yellow birds are quite rare and are the focus of intense conservation efforts within Mount Aspiring National Park. More common encounters include the friendly Fantail (Pīwakawaka), which often flits across the path to catch insects stirred up by your feet, and the Grey Warbler (Riroriro), whose trilling song is the soundtrack of the New Zealand bush.

High above in the canopy, you might see the heavy flight of the Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon). Look for their white "singlets" and iridescent green feathers as they feast on native berries.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Blue Pools Track is a true four-season destination, but each time of year offers a different vibe:

• Summer (December – February): This is the most popular time. The sun hits the pools directly, making the blue colours pop with maximum intensity. It’s also the only time you might seriously consider a swim.
• Spring (September – November): The rivers are often higher and more powerful due to snowmelt, and the forest is incredibly lush.
• Autumn (March – May): The air is crisp and the crowds are thinner. The lighting in the afternoon is particularly beautiful for photography.
• Winter (June – August): A magical time to visit when the surrounding peaks of Tititea (Mount Aspiring) are dusted in snow. Just be aware that the Haast Pass can occasionally be subject to ice or snow closures, so check the road conditions before you head out.

• Insect Repellent: This is the most important tip! The West Coast and Haast Pass are famous for sandflies. They love the Blue Pools as much as tourists do, so cover up or bring a good repellent to avoid itchy bites.
• Footwear: While the track is easy, it can be slippery when wet. Sturdy sneakers or walking shoes are perfectly fine.
• Camera: You’ll want plenty of battery life for this one.
• Water and Snacks: There are no facilities once you leave the carpark.

Best Time to Visit: To avoid the tour bus crowds and get the best light on the water, aim to arrive before 10:00 am or after 4:00 pm. The pools look most vibrant when the sun is directly overhead (around midday), but the early morning mist in the forest is also something special.

Local & Regional Context

The Blue Pools sit within Mount Aspiring National Park, part of the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area. To Māori, this region holds great significance. The Makarora River was part of an ancient ara tawhito (traditional path) used by Waitaha, Kāti Māmoe, and Ngāi Tahu to travel between the east coast and the west coast in search of pounamu (greenstone).

The name Makarora itself translates to "long river," and the area remains a place of deep spiritual connection and natural abundance. Geologically, the pools are a reminder of the massive glacial forces that shaped the Southern Alps. The sheer clarity of the water is a result of the rock being filtered through the earth and the pristine, untouched nature of the surrounding catchment.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your walk and snapped your last photo, you’ll likely be ready for a coffee or a cold drink. Just 2.8km down the road toward Wānaka, you’ll find the Wonderland Makarora Lodge, home to the Blue Pools Café & Bar.

It’s a fantastic, cosy spot to refuel. They offer a full breakfast and lunch menu, and if you’re heading back toward Wānaka in the late afternoon, their bar features a great selection of local craft beers and wines. The outdoor terraces offer lovely views of the surrounding mountains, making it the perfect place to sit back and reflect on your walk. Just keep in mind that the café and bar sometimes close or reduce hours during the winter season (April to September), so it’s worth checking ahead if you’re visiting in the cooler months.

The Blue Pools Track is more than just a walk; it’s a sensory experience that captures the essence of New Zealand’s wilderness. It’s accessible, breathtakingly beautiful, and a reminder of why we need to protect these wild places. Enjoy the journey!