Ship Creek Walks (Dune Lake Walk)

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The absolute crown jewel of this walk is the series of viewing platforms. These elevated decks provide the perfect vantage point to appreciate the scale of the landscape. From here, you can look out over the Dune Lake, a peaceful body of water that sits in stark contrast to the nearby ocean. On a calm day, the lake acts as a perfect mirror, reflecting the expansive West Coast sky and the distant mountain ranges.

Another highlight is the view looking southwest toward Jackson Head. The coastline here is rugged and untamed, with driftwood-strewn beaches stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially when the light is low in the afternoon and the mist begins to roll off the surf.

What makes this trail truly special is its geological story. The dune lake was formed over centuries as coastal sediment slowly built up, trapping water between ancient dune ridges. Seeing this process in person—the transition from beach to dune to lake to forest—is like looking at a living timeline of the earth’s formation. It’s a rare opportunity to see a pristine coastal wetland that hasn't been modified by human development.

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is straightforward. Ship Creek is located on State Highway 6, approximately 15 to 20 kilometres north of the Haast township. If you are driving south from the glaciers (Fox and Franz Josef), it will be on your right-hand side. If you’re heading north from Haast, look for the signs on your left.

There is a large, well-appointed gravel parking area with plenty of room for campervans. The site features clean public toilets and informative display boards that explain the history and ecology of the area. It’s a popular spot, but because the walks are short, there is a constant turnover of visitors, so finding a park is usually easy.

Wildlife Spotting

Ship Creek is a haven for birdlife, and the Dune Lake Walk offers several different habitats for spotting our feathered friends. As you walk through the forest, keep an ear out for the melodious song of the Tūī. They are very common here year-round and can often be seen flitting through the canopy in search of nectar. You are also almost guaranteed to be joined by the friendly Pīwakawaka (Fantail), which often follows hikers to catch the insects stirred up by their footsteps.

If you look toward the lake or the marshy edges, you might spot a Pūkeko foraging in the reeds. For those with a keen eye and a bit of patience, the rare Matuku hūrepo (Australasian Bittern) is known to inhabit these wetlands, though they are notoriously difficult to spot due to their incredible camouflage.

Down on the beach and near the creek mouth, keep an eye out for the Pied Oystercatcher during the spring and summer months. And, if you are visiting in the spring and have luck on your side, you might even catch a glimpse of the rare Tawaki (Fiordland Crested Penguin). They occasionally visit this stretch of coast, though they are shy and should always be given plenty of space.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Dune Lake Walk is a fantastic year-round destination, but each season brings its own flavour:

• Spring: This is the best time for wildlife, with birds being particularly active and the rare chance of seeing a penguin.
• Summer: The warmest time to visit, perfect for enjoying the coastal breeze. However, this is also peak "sandfly season."
• Autumn & Winter: The air is often crisp and clear, providing the best visibility for the mountain views. The sunsets during these months can be absolutely spectacular.

• The Sandfly Factor: It would be remiss not to mention the West Coast’s most famous resident—the sandfly. They are particularly fond of the Ship Creek area. Wear long sleeves and trousers, and apply a good quality insect repellent before you leave your vehicle.
• Weather Gear: This is one of the wettest regions in the world. Even if it looks sunny, always carry a light rain jacket. The weather can change in minutes.
• Start Time: Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photos and the highest chance of seeing wildlife when the trail is quieter.
• Sun Protection: Even on cloudy days, the NZ sun is incredibly strong, and the reflection off the sand and water can increase the burn risk. Pack your sunscreen and a hat.

Local & Regional Context

The name Ship Creek carries a bit of maritime mystery. It was named after pieces of a ship (the Schomberg) were found here in the 1860s, having drifted all the way from a wreck in Victoria, Australia. However, the Māori name, Tauparikākā, translates to "a line of parrots," referring to the abundance of birdlife that has historically called this forest home.

This area is part of the Te Wāhipounamu – South West New Zealand World Heritage Area. This is a massive recognition by UNESCO, marking this region as one of the world's great natural areas, containing rocks, plants, and animals which date back to the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana. Walking the Dune Lake trail isn't just a stroll; it’s a walk through a landscape that looks much as it did thousands of years ago, before humans ever set foot in Aotearoa.

If you have an extra 20 minutes, I highly recommend also doing the Kahikatea Swamp Forest Walk, which starts from the same car park. It takes you into a swamp forest featuring New Zealand’s tallest tree, the kahikatea (white pine), providing a perfect complement to the dune experience.

After the Walk

After you’ve soaked in the wild coastal vibes, you’ll likely be ready for a coffee or a hearty meal. Since Ship Creek is quite remote, you’ll need to head 17km south into Haast to find a feed.

Frontier Cafe & Bar is a fantastic choice located within the Heartland Hotel Haast. It has a classic, welcoming country pub atmosphere. If you want a real taste of the West Coast, look for the whitebait salads or their famous venison pies. It’s a great spot for a full buffet breakfast if you’re passing through early, or a relaxing dinner to cap off your day of exploring.

For something with a bit of local character, check out The Hard Antler Bar and Restaurant. As the name suggests, the interior is decorated with an impressive collection of deer antlers, giving it a true "mountain man" vibe. They serve massive, freshly cooked pub-style meals—their seafood platters and burgers are legendary. It’s the perfect place to grab a pint of local Monteith’s beer and chat with the locals about the day's adventures.

17km away

Located within the Heartland Hotel Haast, this cafe and bar offers a casual country pub atmosphere with hearty food, including venison pies and whitebait salads. It's a great spot to refuel with a full buffet breakfast or a relaxing dinner.