10 Best Things to Do in Wakefield & Tapawera

1. Hike the Wangapeka Track

Discover the beauty of the Wangapeka River along the multi-day Wangapeka Track. The Wangapeka Track takes 4-6 days to complete, taking hikers through steep mountainous landscapes, crossing two saddles and delving into the forested valleys of four different rivers.

This is a one-way trail where you will need to organise transport at the other end. The trail ends on Wangapeka Road near Little Wanganui, 18 km (11 mi) south of Karamea.

Find out what to do on the other end in our 10 Amazing Things to Do in Karamea.

Location: Wangapeka River Road, Prices Clearing. West of Tapawera. Note that there is a ford crossing which can be impassable after heavy rain.

© Robert (Bic) Bicknell on Wikipedia

2. Play at the Golden Downs Golf Club

The low green fees are just one enticement to play at the Golden Downs Golf Club while in the Tapawera area. Set against a backdrop of native bush and farmland between Wakefield and Tapawera, this relaxed rural course offers a peaceful and uncrowded golfing experience.

The 9-hole layout suits all skill levels, making it perfect for casual players looking for a laid-back round. The club has a friendly local atmosphere and often operates on an honesty system for visitors.

The golf course is known for having the longest par 5 in New Zealand at 659 m (720 yards).

Check out more golf courses around the country in the 20 Best Golf Courses in New Zealand.

Location: Valley Road, 14 km (9 mi) south of Tapawera.

© pxhere

3. Visit the Higgins Heritage Park & Steam Museum

Experience the pioneering days at the Higgins Heritage Park & Steam Museum. The 4.5 ha (11 acres) of heritage park is packed with transport, logging, farming and other heritage exhibitions to give you an insight into early life in New Zealand.

You might even be lucky enough to catch the Steam Museum firing up the steam engines on their regular demonstration days. Pop in on the first and third Sunday of each month between September and April. Other times of the year, the heritage park is open on the first Sunday of each month. It’s possible to book visits.

Location: 222 Pigeon Valley Road, 3km (2 miles) northwest of Wakefield.

© Higgins Heritage Park & Steam Museum

4. Make Your Own Knife

Make like a blacksmith and create your own knife! This full-day hands-on experience involves forging a steel blade using traditional metalworking techniques, including heating, hammering and shaping steel under expert guidance.

You’ll then tidy up the blade on a grinder, fit a custom handle and finish your knife to make it look the real deal! No prior experience is required, and safety instruction is provided throughout.

The activity with Make a Knife also includes a gourmet pizza lunch.

Location: Based at the Higgins Heritage Park, 222 Pigeon Valley Road, 3 km (2 mi) northwest of Wakefield.

© Make a Knife

5. Wander Around the Gardens of the World

Pack a picnic or just enjoy wandering around the picturesque Gardens of the World. This garden collection features various themed gardens from the Oriental Garden to the Water Garden.

The gardens are alive with birdsong and it’s very possible to spot fantails, tui, bellbird and kereru. The Gardens of the World also offers guided tours to learn more about the interesting trees and plants here.

Location: Corner of Patons Road and Clover Road, 9km (6 miles) northeast of Wakefield.

© Pxhere

6. Cycle or Walk the Spooners Tunnel Trail

One of the most popular cycling and walking experiences near Wakefield, the Spooners Tunnel Trail follows a historic railway line through native bush and farmland. The highlight? Spooners Tunnel itself — one of the longest disused railway tunnels in New Zealand.

The trail is mostly downhill and family-friendly, making it ideal for those looking to hire bikes and enjoy a leisurely ride. Inside the tunnel, temperatures stay cool year-round, adding a unique underground element to the experience.

Shuttle and bike hire options are available from nearby towns, making it easy to arrange a one-way trip down the trail.

Location: Spooners Range Road, approximately 12 km (7.5 mi) southwest of Wakefield.

© NelsonTasman.nz & @barekiwi - Nelson Regional Development Agency

7. Visit Hinetai Hops Farm Experience

For beer enthusiasts and those curious about agricultural tourism, Hinetai Hops provides a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into hop cultivation in the heart of Nelson Tasman’s renowned brewing country.

During seasonal guided farm tours, you’ll discover how hops are grown, harvested and processed, learning why this region produces some of the country’s finest craft beer ingredients.

It’s a niche experience that offers a fascinating look at an essential component of New Zealand’s thriving craft beer scene.

The farm tours operate during key growing and harvest periods, making it worth checking availability before your visit.

Location: Hinetai Hops, 1256 Tadmor Valley Road, approximately 16 km (10 mi) southeast of Tapawera.

© NelsonTasman.nz - Nelson Regional Development Agency

8. Explore Tapawera Heritage Museum

Step into the past at the Tapawera Historical Museum, a charming community-run museum that tells the story of the township and surrounding Motueka Valley.

Inside, you’ll find a fascinating collection of photographs, farming tools, memorabilia and personal stories from early settlers and local industries that shaped this rural corner of Nelson Tasman.

The museum offers a genuine glimpse into the farming life and pioneering spirit that built these inland communities.

Location: Tapawera Historical Museum, Main Road, Tapawera, located in the centre of Tapawera township.

© NelsonTasman.nz & @barekiwi - Nelson Regional Development Agency

9. Mountain Bike the Wairoa Gorge Trails

Serious mountain bikers, this one’s for you. Wairoa Gorge is home to one of New Zealand’s most advanced riding destinations, featuring world-class downhill tracks that’ll get your adrenaline pumping.

The private trail network was developed by professional mountain bikers and features steep descents and technical terrain that’s designed specifically for experienced riders.

Most visitors access the trails via guided shuttle services, which makes tackling the challenging runs in this remote forest setting much easier.

Location: Wairoa Gorge MTB Park access, Wairoa Gorge Road, approximately 15 km (9 mi) southeast of Wakefield.

© NelsonTasman.nz & @barekiwi - Nelson Regional Development Agency

10. Visit Willowbank Heritage Village

Step back in time at Willowbank Heritage Village, a recreated historic settlement that brings early colonial life in the Nelson region to vivid life.

The village features period-style buildings and heritage displays that paint a picture of rural living in the 1800s and early 1900s.

You’ll find authentic artefacts and carefully curated exhibits showcasing how early settlers built their homes, farmed their land and created communities in this beautiful part of New Zealand.

The village regularly hosts community events and educational activities throughout the year, making it a wonderful spot for families and history enthusiasts alike.

Location: Willowbank Heritage area, Pigeon Valley Road, approximately 4 km (2.5 mi) northwest of Wakefield.

© NelsonTasman.nz & @barekiwi - Nelson Regional Development Agency