10 Luxury Activities in Takaka

1. Take a Scenic Flight Over Golden Bay and Abel Tasman

See it all from a breathtaking perspective on a scenic flight with Adventure Flights Golden Bay. From short flights over the immediate Golden Bay area to a flight over the golden beaches of the Abel Tasman National Park, they have something to suit a range of timeframes and budgets. Their “Farewell Spit Flight” is another spectacular option allowing you to truly appreciate the scale of this sandspit that keeps on growing.

Alternatively, join Golden Bay Air for a more comprehensive scenic flight over the Kahurangi National Park, Wharariki Beach, Cape Farewell, the Abel Tasman National Park and much more.

Location: 290 Takaka-Collingwood Highway, Puramahoi, approximately 6km (4 miles) from Takaka town centre.

© Adventure Flights Golden Bay

2. Indulge in a Spa Day

If the weather isn’t great, don’t let your luxury getaway come to a halt. Use it as an excuse to hit the pause button and relax with one of the Golden Bay’s indulgent day spas.

Aroha Health Spa is a fantastic option with an extensive menu of body massages, spa and sauna sessions, holistic treatments, facials and more in a down-to-earth setting. After your treatment, rejuvenate with healthy meals, organic coffee, fresh juices or herbal teas in their “Garden Sanctuary Spa” exclusive to guests.

Alternatively, guests of Westhaven Lodge can unwind with holistic massages, reflexology and other wellness therapies, while the Waitapu Springs B&B spa is a small complex with cedar hot tubs, a Scandanavian sauna, indoor pool and a Middle Eastern chill-out room. The latter also offers affordable luxury in their B&B accommodation, which you can find out more about in the 10 Best Budget Accommodation in Takaka.

Location: Aroha Health Spa – 792 Abel Tasman Drive, Pohara, approximately 9 km (6 mi) from Takaka town centre. Westhaven Lodge – 336 Te Hapu Road, Mangarakau, approximately 68 km (42 mi) from Takaka town centre. Waitapu Springs – 50 Waitapu Road, Takaka town.

© Westhaven Retreat

3. Be Treated to Fine New Zealand Cuisine

Admittedly, Golden Bay favours more laidback dining when it comes to eating out, with highlights of the area including the Mussel Inn and The Wholemeal Cafe, which you can learn more about in The Foodie Guide to Takaka.

However, if you’re looking for a more sophisticated dining experience, one of your best options is dining at Ratanui Lodge and their cocktail lounge, specialising in a tapas and set menu of contemporary New Zealand cuisine.

See more fine dining recommendations in The Luxury Guide to Takaka.

Location: Mussel Inn – 1259 State Highway 60, Onekaka, The Wholemeal Cafe – 7110/60 Commercial Street, Tākaka, Ratanui Lodge – 818 Abel Tasman Drive, Pōhara.

© www.nelsontasman.nz

4. Ride Across One of the World’s Most Beautiful Beaches on Horseback

Experience the windswept beaches of Wharariki and Puponga Beaches or perhaps the views from dramatic hills of the Old Man Range on a horse trek at Cape Farewell.

Ride Cape Farewell Trek’s beautiful horses to the views of the iconic Archway Islands that give Wharariki Beach the title of one of the world’s most beautiful beaches or see the wild west coast from the mountaintops of the Old Man Range with a wide range of terrain to tackle. Choose from treks to suit beginners to seasoned riders.

Location: 23 McGowan Street, Puponga, approximately 50 km (31 mi) from Takaka town centre.

© Cape Farewell Horse Treks - www.nelsontasman.nz

5. Kayak in the Uncrowded Waters of the Northern Abel Tasman National Park

For those wishing to explore the Abel Tasman National Park, you have the most serene part of the park to experience from Golden Bay, all to yourself much of the time.

Either join a small-group tour or private bespoke tour with Golden Bay Kayaks to paddle to the park’s remote inlets and coves, the Tata Islands with New Zealand’s largest shag colonies, meet friendly seals and enjoy morning tea or some other local culinary delights prepared for you on a remote golden-sand beach.

It’s also one of the activities we feature in the 10 Romantic Activities in Takaka for Couples.

Location: 29 Cornwall Place, Tata Beach, approximately 14 km (9 mi) from Takaka town centre.

© Epic Trails - www.nelsontasman.nz

6. Browse the Art Galleries or Take Part in a Creative Workshop

Golden Bay is a haven for art and creativity. Be inspired by simply browsing the array of art galleries in Golden Bay, such as MONZA Gallery, TOTOS Cafe & Gallery, Sculpture705 Art Lollkiki and MAD Cafe & Arts Centre – to name a few.

If you want to get a more hands-on experience, however, Art Haven near Collingwood offers a comprehensive range of creative workshops in their light-filled studio. Their experienced and knowledgeable tutors are on-hand to help you start out on your creative journey, assist if you’re in a rut with your art, or simply enable your creativity.

Choose from their regular sessions, weekend workshops, half-day or one-day workshops.

Location: MONZA Gallery – 25 Commercial Street. Totos Cafe & Gallery – 400 Totaranui Road, Tata Beach, approximately 23 km (14 mi) from Takaka town centre. Sculpture705 Art Lollkiki – 705 Abel Tasman Drive, Clifton, approximately 8 km (5 mi) from Takaka town centre. MAD Cafe & Arts Centre – 7 Tasman Street, Collingwood, approximately 28 km (17 mi) from Takaka town centre. Art Haven – Collingwood, approximately 28 km (17 mi) from Takaka town centre.

© www.nelsontasman.nz

7. Take Part in a Farm Tour, Eco Tour, Fishing and More at Westhaven Lodge

This luxury lodge on a remote 405 ha (1,000 acre) private peninsula is an attraction in itself, boasting a wealth of activities for guests.

On-site at Westhaven Lodge, take a guided kayaking tour of the secretive tidal arms and inlets, be picked up from the lodge for guided coastal fishing, take a 4WD safari of the farm and learn about local flora and fauna, cycle the deserted mountain bike trails of the peninsula, and take a farm tour to meet the sheep, llamas, cows and goats.

Learn more about the accommodation itself in the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Takaka.

Location: 336 Te Hapu Road, Mangarakau, approximately 68 km (42 mi) from Takaka town centre.

© Westhaven Lodge

8. Tour Farewell Spit – One of the Most Protected Places in New Zealand

Get exclusive access to Farewell Spit, New Zealand’s longest sandspit and one of the most protected environments in the country, with Farewell Spit Tours.

At low tide, join the team on a small-group bus tour for a journey along the expansive sand with rolling and ever-changing dunes, beautiful wildlife and a lonely lighthouse.

Take a comprehensive tour of Farewell Spit seeing the main highlights on the Farewell Spit Tour or opt for one of the nature experiences like the “Gannet Colony Tour” or “Wader Watch Tour”.

Location: 6 Tasman Street, Collingwood, approximately 28km (17 miles) from Takaka town centre.

© NZPocketGuide.com

9. Cruise Abel Tasman to Golden Bay

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Wine, Art, & Wilderness as you explore the best of Abel Tasman National Park and Golden Bay in one extraordinary day. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive across the Waimea Plains and Moutere Hills to Kaiteriteri, where you’ll board a cruise along the stunning coastline of Abel Tasman National Park.

Marvel at the park’s clear waters, golden beaches and playful fur seal colonies before disembarking at Tōtaranui for an exciting Golden Bay exploration.

Discover breathtaking landscapes, including sub-tropical rainforests, intriguing rock formations and pristine beaches. A highlight of the tour is a visit to Te Waikoropupū Springs, home to some of the world’s clearest water.

Savour a gourmet picnic or enjoy a meal at a local café. The return journey takes you over Takaka Hill, offering panoramic views of Golden Bay, Abel Tasman National Park and Tasman Bay.

Location: Pickup from accommodation in Nelson, Tasman Region, South Island. Tour includes visits to Abel Tasman National Park and Golden Bay.

© NelsonTasman.nz

10. Take a Private Boat Charter in Abel Tasman National Park

Experience a luxurious adventure with Abel Tasman Charters – Day Tours, offering private boat charters through the stunning Abel Tasman National Park. This bespoke experience allows you to explore one of New Zealand’s most renowned parks at your own pace.

Glide across emerald waters, discover golden sandy beaches, and immerse yourself in lush forests teeming with wildlife.

Your skilled skipper will tailor the journey to suit your preferences, whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures or tranquil relaxation. Enjoy a range of activities including hiking, swimming, and kayaking, all customised to your fitness level.

With the freedom to personalise your itinerary, this full-day excursion promises an unforgettable blend of luxury and natural beauty in the heart of Abel Tasman.

Location: Abel Tasman National Park, Tasman Region, South Island. Departure point varies depending on the charter.

© Abel Tasman Charters - Day Tours