Discover Wharekai Te Kou Walk
The Wharekai Te Kou Walk begins at Jackson Bay Ōkahu in South Westland, New Zealand's southernmost road-accessible West Coast settlement. This easy 40-minute return walk winds through regenerating native forest to a small rocky cove on the Tasman Sea coast. The walk's combination of accessible coastal forest and the remote character of Jackson Bay creates a distinctly end-of-the-road atmosphere.
Walking the Track
The walk follows a well-maintained track through regenerating native forest. Rimu, kahikatea, and southern rātā grow among the younger vegetation, while tree ferns, supplejack, and various ferns create a dense understory. The forest's regeneration demonstrates the West Coast's capacity for natural recovery after historical logging.
Native birdlife is active throughout the forest. Tūī, bellbirds, fantails, and grey warblers are commonly heard and seen, while kākā (native parrots) occasionally fly overhead. The forest's proximity to the coast and relative remoteness support healthy bird populations.
The track emerges at a small rocky cove where the forest meets the Tasman Sea. The cove's rock platforms and boulders create a rugged coastal scene typical of the South Westland coast. At low tide, rock pools reveal marine life, including crabs, small fish, and various shellfish.
Longer Hiking Options
The nearby Smoothwater Bay Track provides a longer option for more experienced hikers. This 2-hour return walk follows an old road from a failed farming development. As an extension, you can also walk along the Smoothwater River through coastal forest to Smoothwater Bay, adding 90 minutes to the return trip. The track entrance is located 1 kilometre back from Jackson Bay township on the main road.
For multi-day trampers, the Smoothwater Bay Track serves as the starting point for the Stafford Bay Route, a challenging two-day coastal tramping track.
How to Get There
Jackson Bay is located at the southern end of State Highway 6, approximately 50 kilometres south of Haast on the West Coast. From Haast, follow SH6 south through the Cascade River valley. Allow a 50-minute drive from Haast. The Wharekai Te Kou Walk begins from the northern end of Jackson Bay settlement, with parking available near the track entrance.
Other activities in the area include a visit to Neils Beach and short walks to Lake Ellery, and at the Okuru River and Hapuka Estuary.
