Kōkako Track
Alerts
Check the DOC website for current alerts and conditions before you go. This site gets current alert info from DOC, but is not an official source of information.
Walk from Haast Township through spectacular native forest down to Haast Beach.
Elevation
Cover mapped summer 2023/24.
Description
The Kōkako Track starts from Haast Township, making its way through native forest, to a disused logging road, down to Haast Beach.
This track is a great spot to hear the birdsong of the tūī and bellbird. The 5.5 km (each way) track can be walked or cycled and is suitable for most people.
Dogs are allowed on this track with a permit, which can be issued from the DOC Haast Visitor Centre. This track has been built by a partnership between the Haast community and the Department of Conservation.
Getting there
The track starts from the carpark at the end of Tahutahi Road, in Haast Township.
Know before you go
Multiple picnic tables on track.
Nature and conservation
The swamp forest along this path contains many towering rimu trees, along with rata, ferns, and other vegetation.
The birdlife along the track may include many natives including kererū, tūī, miromiro (tomtit) and korimako (bellbirds). At dusk or night there is a chance to hear a ruru (morepork).
This track does feature a community trapline to help control invasive rats and stoats. You may hear Southern Brown Tree Frogs after rain.
History and culture
The Kokako Track was built in collaboration with the Haast Community and connects with a disused logging road.
Weather
Forecast at the start of the track