The Gates of Haast rapids and waterfall cover the most rugged section of the Haast Highway on the north side of Haast Pass. From the top of the Pass, the road heads downhill, hugging the side of the cliff with a steep dropoff to the Haast River gorge.
Diana Falls is one of the few safe places to stop until you reach the Gates. Here, the river tumbles 60 metres amongst large boulders with several waterfalls. The road crosses over the middle of this drop on a high, narrow one-lane bridge.
On the north side, there is safe parking just beyond the bridge for several cars. There is no standing room on the bridge, but you can walk down below it for a closer view of the ravine and falls. It may be tempting to clamber closer to the water, but be aware that this is an inherently dangerous place, especially in bad weather when water levels can change without warning.
