Ship Creek is one of the best short stops near Haast. Two easy walks start near the highway: one crosses dune forest toward the beach, the other leads into swamp forest and lake-edge country where kahikatea and other native trees rise above wet ground.
It is a small place, but it captures the southern West Coast well: dark forest, tannin water, driftwood, and a beach that feels a long way from anywhere. Sandflies can be fierce, so cover up before you linger.