Māpua

Just half hour’s drive from Nelson and you’ll find yourself in the charming seaside hamlet of Māpua. Māpua is a very popular short trip for locals wanting to enjoy a meal or a bit of boutique shopping with an onshore breeze and a view of the water. Jumping of the Māpua pier is a famous…

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Mrs Smith’s Cafe (Riuwaka)

Just past Motueka on your way to Kaiteriteri, Mārahau, or Tākaka you’ll find Riuwaka (also known by the incorrect spelling of Riwaka). It’s a wee place famous for the Riuwaka Resurgence (we’ll write a separate post about that very special place soon). It’s also a stop on the Great Taste Trail, the region’s wonderful cycle/walking…

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Hawkes lookout (Tākaka Hill)

If you’re heading over Tākaka Hill make sure to take a quick stop at Hawkes lookout. Just a short walk from the car park you’ll find a well-positioned observation deck from which you have an panoramic view of the surrounding landscape across to Nelson in the distance. It’s also a good way to have a…

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Wharariki Beach (Golden Bay/Mohua)

Wharariki (one hour by car from Tākaka) is famous for its rock formations and expansive, and often windswept beach. It’s a destination that’s worth dedicating half a day to if you’re in Golden Bay/Mohua. Once you leave the tar seal it’s about 10-15 minutes on unsealed road to the carpark from which you walk twenty…

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