The Blue Pools are located in Mt Aspiring National Park and are a must-visit if you’re driving between Wānaka and the West Coast.

There's a 1.5km/30 minute track through native beech forest, across a swing bridge, and down to the edge of the Makarora River. The river is fed by glacial meltwater, which is why the water is so clear, blue and freezing cold. It’s a very popular place to go swimming in the summer. But, when we were here, I touched the water and can vouch that if I went in, I think I’d have hypothermia in 0.5 seconds. So, if you love it, I’ll take your word for it!

How to get there

The Blue Pools Track starts from the Blue Pools carpark, just off State Highway 6 near Makarora. It’s about a 1-hour drive from Wānaka on the road towards Haast. There’s free parking at the trailhead, and the track is well-maintained and signposted.

Because the pools are so easily accessible, they can get very busy in the summer, so I’d recommend arriving early or late in the day if you want to squeeze in some time for yourself.