The Shortest, Most Spectacular Hike in New Zealand – and Few Travellers Know About It

Some hikes in New Zealand take days. Others demand early starts, heavy packs, and a level of fitness that scares off most visitors. But hidden along the Haast Pass in the South Island is a track so short you could walk it in under 30 minutes – and yet it offers views that rival the country’s most famous trails.

Locals and seasoned road-trippers know it simply as the Blue Pools Track. Many travellers drive right past without realising what they’re missing.

A View Worth the Journey

The walk begins from a small roadside car park, crossing a swing bridge over the Makarora River. Within minutes, you’re surrounded by beech forest alive with birdsong. Then, as the track curves and another suspension bridge sways into view, the trees part to reveal brilliant turquoise pools fed by pure mountain water.

On a still day, the clarity is so sharp you can see trout gliding in the depths. In summer, the brave take an icy plunge – water temperatures rarely climb above 8°C.

Why It Stands Out

Unlike the country’s great walks, which can stretch over multiple days and require bookings, this little-known gem asks almost nothing of you—no tickets, no guides, no special gear. Yet it delivers a payoff that hikers often travel halfway around the world to find.

Protecting Its Magic

Local conservation groups ask visitors to stick to the paths and avoid swimming in certain areas to protect delicate ecosystems. “It’s one of those places that feels untouched,” says a Makarora resident. “If we look after it, it’ll stay that way for generations.”

The Allure of the Unexpected

New Zealand is full of breathtaking walks, but this one proves you don’t need days, bookings, or aching legs to experience the country’s raw beauty. Sometimes, the most unforgettable adventures are just a short stroll away – if you know where to stop.