Tasman Two-Day Getaway

Sometimes trips close to home can be just as restful if not better than a big expedition. We love exploring the Tasman region and two of our favourite places to stay are Kimi Ora Eco Resort i(opens in new tab)n Kaiteretere and Golden Bay Lodge in Onekaka.

Kimi Ora has epic views towards Kaiteretere Beach from most of its units and manages to achieve providing capacity for quite a number of guests while still making you feel like you have your own private little escape.

Units are extremely well equipped and it's possible to self-cater. But you can also enjoy an excellent breakfast every morning and vegetarian dinners on selected nights of the week.

Staying at Kimi Ora also gives you access to the pools, sauna, spa pools and lovely outdoor area, including some lovely walking trails. We've been at Kimi Ora at all times of the year and it's beautiful regardless of the weather. We actually find it particularly lovely during the winter. It's very special to be warm in the indoor pool or spa and hear heavy rain on the roof above you.

Golden Bay Lodge(opens in new tab) is a delightful haven in Onekaka, just down the road from the wonderful cafe/restaurant/music venue, The Mussel Inn.

Golden Bay Lodge's units are incredibly well set up, with wood burners, ample firewood, excellent kitchen facilities, and comfortable beds.

There's a size of unit to fit everyone from couples, to a small family, to a larger family or group. The shared spa pool has a spectacular outlook towards the sea and on a still, clear night there starry sky above is quite something to behold.

The Lodge itself is nestled in a very large garden, well loved and maintained by the owners and their staff,

A short walk down from the Lodge takes you to nearby Tukurua Beach. It's quite common to have the beach to yourself or perhaps see just a couple of other people in the distance.

It's the kind of place you don't want to leave once you're there, and a couple of times we've found ourselves booking an extra night to tack onto our stay once we've arrived as we simply haven't felt just one night was enough.

While you're in Mohua/Golden Bay there is plenty to enjoy and explore. Here are a few notes about some of our favourite places:

Tākaka Hill

It's epic and twisty turny (257 corners) but do make sure you stop at the top and enjoy the views. Epic on a clear day but also quite something when the fog has rolled in. If you're keen on a thrill the Via Ferrata is fun too.

The Dangerous Kitchen

Looking for a snack when you reach Tākaka? We recommend The Dangerous Kitchen.(opens in new tab) Delectable counter food and a good menu with excellent coffee.

Artisans

Artisans and craftspeople have been flocking to the Bay for decades for the lifestyle it offers and the space for a bit more freedom of thought and expression and that's still evident on the main street of Tākaka. I personally love Artisans and add to my growing pottery collection with at least one piece by a local potter every time I'm in the Bay. But there's also a wonderful selection of jewellery, clothing, textiles, and other creative work in this shop staffed by members of the Artisans collective.

Stone Arrow Jewellery

Stone Arrow Jewellery(opens in new tab) is also tucked away in a studio just off the main road. Recycled materials, contemporary designs, and excellent prices make this a real stand out if you're looking for something a bit special as a memento from your trip.

Te Waikoropupū Springs

Just heading north from Tākaka after you cross the bridge you'll see the sign for Te Waikoropupū Springs(opens in new tab). Take the time to make the turn off and visit this very special Wāhi Tapu (sacred place). It has been transformed in terms of the story that is told there and the respectful way that visiting the site is now managed.

Gone are the days (fortunately) when people went into the springs in a wetsuit or filled their water bottles from the springs. There is a striking entrance with a mauri stone and information panels telling the story of the springs and how to make your visit a memorable one while respecting the customs of local iwi. There is a very special feeling here and walking around the track is a fantastic way to ground yourself and find a point of balance away from all the busy-ness of the world.

Courthouse Cafe

Collingwood is a small spot but the Courthouse Cafe(opens in new tab) is worth stopping for. It has lovely food and a pleasant outdoor area where you can chat to locals and visitors alike and while away some time. There is always interesting birdlife here and of course this is the departure point for the famous Farewell Spit Tours(opens in new tab).

The Mussel Inn(opens in new tab)

No trip to the Bay is complete without spending time at The Mussel Inn. I first visited the place in its second year in business as a young touring musician. I don't think the menu has changed much if at all since then, but why mess with a good thing? Great food, excellent craft beer, nothing fried (hooray!), and local wines and often an opportunity to hear great music or take part in other fun events such as quiz nights or singalongs. If you're really lucky your visit might coincide with the celebration of Bob Dylan's birthday when musicians come from near and far to put their name on the blackboard and sing one or two of his songs until the total number of songs performed reaches Bob Dylan's age that year. It takes hours and hours but it's worth every minute. Jane and Andrew Dixon have created something magnificent here in their more than 30 years operating The Mussel Inn.

Last time we were there musicians arrived with disco balls and equipment to set up for their gig and it occurred to me I probably first performed at the venue before they were born. Time flies! But the place still fills my heart with as much joy now as it did in the early 1990s.