Golden Bay Hideaway

Paragliders launch over the Upper Takaka Valley

Golden Bay

A destination for travellers from around the world, Golden Bay's attraction lies in its remoteness and proximity to internationally significant conservation areas, such as Farewell Spit, Kahurangi National Park and Te Waikoropupu Springs. This plus its relaxed festival atmosphere and friendly culture mean that the population triples during the holiday summer season.

Surrounded by Natural Wonders

It's fair to say that Golden Bay is spoilt for choice!

  • Farewell Spit, Cape Farewell and Puponga Farm Park

    Almost entirely enclosing Golden Bay is Farewell Spit; a 25km long sandspit recognised as a internationally significant bird sanctuary. Visitors access is strictly restricted to protect the wildlife and fragile dune environment. However its well worth visiting and walking the tracks or taking a permitted tour to the end of the spit. Learn more…

    Also worthwhile visiting is Cape Farewell, Puponga Farm Park and Wharariki Beach. Its West Coast at its best - windswept dunes and towering cliffs.

    The South Island's most northerly point is Cape Farewell (far right). A short walk leads to the clifftop edge and amazing views.

  • Kahurangi National Park and the Heaphy Track

    This National Park surrounds Golden Bay to the west. Mountains protect Golden Bay from westerly winds and provide habitat for some of our most endangered wildlife.

    Its big (11.424 ha) and most of it is remote mountainous wilderness with a core area that is completely undeveloped. Accessible areas include the Cobb Valley (at the top of Takaka Valley) and the diverse multi-day tramp the Heaphy Track .

    At the head of the Cobb Valley lies Lake Cobb

  • Te Waikoropupu Springs (Pupu Springs)

    Te Waikoropupu Springs are New Zealand's largest freshwater springs and the largest cold water springs in the southern hemisphere. They contain some of the clearest water ever measured and are set in a reserve that protects gold workings, regenerating forest and a fine patch of mature bush.

  • Abel Tasman National Park

    Neighbouring Golden Bay Hideaway is Abel Tasman National Park.

Art and Culture

A thriving art and alternative culture scene provides visitors with a stunning variety of craftspeople and galleries to investigate.

You might like to visit a studio to see art in the wild or see a range of work at one of the art shops in Takaka. Local artists have created a art trail brochure to get you started but this is just a taster. Investigate the links below for some inspiration:

Art and Crafts

Festivals and Events

Golden Bay has a rich history of colourful festivals and events. Its part of the diverse cultural tapestry that has grown here. Each year the events lineup gets a shakeup so its best to check Golden Bay Promotion's official events calendar to see whats up and coming.