Golden Bay is a shallow bay, separated from the sea by Farewell Spit, which lies at the northwest end of the South Island. The bay is bordered by Kahurangi National Park and Abel Tasman National Park in Nelson. Golden Bay is a vast, beautiful paradise for nature lovers – at the end of a wonderfully scenic road trip.
From Picton, drive to Golden Bay via Nelson or through Queen Charlotte Sounds (four or five hours driving) and from Christchurch (about 296km away), it's a seven hour drive via the Lewis Pass, Murchison, Nelson and Highway 60. Experience the long, slow climb over Takaka Hill (the 'Marble Mountain'), stop to marvel at Harwoods Hole, the Ngarua Caves and the Te Waikoropupu Springs (the 'Pupu Springs') - New Zealand's largest freshwater springs and home of the clearest spring water in the world.
Popular with visitors to Golden Bay is the bird sanctuary on Farewell Spit, horse trekking on the beautiful Wharariki Beach, the Te Anaroa Caves, Bencarri Farm Park, Anatoki Salmon Park and cafe, and the scenic drive to the golden beaches of Ligar Bay and Tata Beach. Takaka Hill near Golden Bay hosts the unique, 'earth friendly festival' of Lumminate. more
Accommodation in Golden Bay is in 'character-style' backpackers, baches, cottages, luxury lodges, plus modern motels and campgrounds.
Looking for the very best of New Zealand for your 'Trip of a Lifetime'? You'll love our small friendly groups and relaxed pace as you discover the true flavour of New Zealand in comfort and style. We’re all Kiwis, we grew up here and can’t wait to show you our favourite spots and introduce you to our mates!
This Nelson - Golden Bay bus and coach tours map displays tourism business locations in your chosen region, area, city or township. Click on a Nelson - Golden Bay map location icon to display more information.