Surrounded by the rugged landscape of windswept beaches and dramatic mountains, rivers, and waterfalls, the township of Haast is a small secluded oasis. Enjoy the remoteness and tranquility, places like these are hard to find these days. For an even more ‘off the beaten track’ experience, head south from Haast to the small seaside community of Jackson Bay – where the people are outnumbered by penguins and seals. While in Jackson Bay, you should stop for lunch at Craypot, this epic little seaside eatery serves fresh local seafood dishes and is very popular among locals. You can go for an easy walk to the rocky shore Wharekai -Te Kou, or for a more challenging and longer one to stunning Smoothwater Bay.