Top things to do in Golden Bay

192030 farewell spit tour bus web 2560px

Journey the length of Farewell Spit

At 34km long, one of the world's biggest natural sandspits stretches across the top of the South Island, shaped by coastal erosion and oceanic drift from the West. This spit makes Golden Bay look like New Zealand's national bird, the kiwi, and is home to over 90 wetland and migratory bird species. Farewell Spit is a nature lover's dream, with gannets, godwits, knots, waders, seal pups, and cheeky oystercatchers. A trip with Farewell Spit Tours wouldn’t be complete without climbing the dunes and racing down against the wind-shaped ripples.

Take a scenic flight

Golden Bay boasts some of New Zealand's most scenic spots, from Farewell Spit's majestic sand dunes to Te Waikoropupū Springs' crystal-clear waters and the wild Wharariki Beach. For a breathtaking view, take a scenic flight with Helicopters Nelson or Golden Bay Air to see these landscapes from above. Enjoy the sights of the shoreline, dunes, lakes, and rugged mountains, and consider combining your Golden Bay tour with a visit to Abel Tasman or Kahurangi National Parks.

The Mussel Inn is a rustic, beloved spot known for its craft beers, live music, and laid-back vibe, nestled in the heart of Golden Bay.

Dine like the locals

In Golden Bay, you'll find hearty food and a laid-back dining experience. The Mussel Inn is a local favourite, known for its freshly steamed mussels and quirky vibe. This live music venue has a full entertainment calendar, a large open fire, sturdy tables for dancing, and a selection of homemade beverages.

Wainui Falls taken by Ryan Domenico credit www.nelsontasman.nz

Take a short stroll

Golden Bay is full of stunning natural landscapes you'll want to explore. Wainui Falls is a must-see, reachable with a short one-hour walk through lush native bush. The trail, shaded by nikau palms, follows the Wainui River and ends at the thundering falls cascading into a deep blue pool. Labyrinth Rocks Park and The Grove Scenic Reserve offer spectacular walks through limestone outcrops. The Grove's lookout is extraordinary, and Labyrinth Rocks features magical shapes and figurines that will ignite the imagination of curious visitors.

235190 golden bay nelson tasman web 2560

Kayak around pristine, quiet bays

Exploring Golden Bay's unique coastline by kayak is even better with Golden Bay Kayaks. As the only company offering guided tours into Abel Tasman National Park from the North, they operate from beautiful Tata Beach. Paddle around Tata Islands, watch seals in the rock pools, and enjoy the tranquillity. Catering to all kayaking interests, you can join a morning tour with friendly local guides, share special moments with family, opt for a bespoke guided tour, or take a multi-day trip to explore the entire Abel Tasman National Park.

Catch your dinner at Anatoki Salmon

For an unforgettable family experience, visit Anatoki Salmon and catch your own fresh fish. Spend the afternoon by the Anatoki River, casting your rod for premium Chinook salmon. Enjoy the thrill of the catch as they flip and wiggle in the water. Then, choose a picnic spot along the riverbank to enjoy your catch, smoked or raw, or take it home for a classic Kiwi BBQ.

See Wharariki Beach

Wharariki Beach rivals the world's wonders with its rugged coastline, arches, caves, and sand dunes. Located on the wild northwest of the South Island, it’s home to playful seal pups. A 20-minute walk through farmland, manuka groves, and coastal forest brings you to the beach. For more adventure, take the Puponga Hilltop Track to see Cape Farewell and the Pillar Point Lighthouse.

Te Waikoropupu Springs Takaka New Zealand

Visit Te Waikoropupū Springs

Just a short distance from Tākaka, you'll find the extraordinary Te Waikoropupū Springs (Blue Springs). As the largest freshwater spring in New Zealand and the biggest coldwater spring in the Southern Hemisphere, this wahi tapu (sacred place) is a taonga (treasure) to the local Māori. Swimming and touching the water are prohibited, but its crystal-clear beauty is undeniable. Eels and native fish dart beneath the bubbling surface, and the sweet sound of birdsong emerges from the surrounding manuka and kanuka forests.

Rawhiti Caves Web Res taken by Oliver Weber credit www3.nelsontasman.nz

Go on a caving adventure

Golden Bay offers exciting cave systems, from curious cavers to advanced abseilers. The Ngarua Caves on Takaka Hill feature stunning stalagmites and stalactites, perfect for a family tour. For the fit and adventurous, Rawhiti Cave is a must-see, with a two-hour return walk leading to diverse limestone formations adorned with green and pink flora. Harwoods Hole, the deepest vertical shaft in New Zealand (176m) and a Lord of the Rings film location, is in the Canaan Downs Scenic Reserve, but it's dangerous to approach, so keep children away.

Explore the arty township

Tākaka and Golden Bay might have something magical in the air, attracting a diverse community of artists and artisans. The vibrant township, adorned with colourful murals, is filled with jewellery stores, boutique stalls, art galleries, and glassblowing studios. Talented locals sell handcrafted chocolates and distilled beverages. The Saturday Village Market showcases this creativity, bringing together locals and visitors in a celebration of art and wonder.