Other activities
Whether it’s a rainy day or you’re just feeling a little worked, Golden Bay has much, much more to offer if you’re looking to take a break from the rock.
Golden Bay is sandwiched between two of New Zealand’s iconic national parks, with a third not far away. An hour’s drive in any direction from Hangdog and you’ll find a vast and stunning array of mountains, hills, rivers, lakes and deserted beaches. Lifetimes have been spent exploring this area. For a general look at the Nelson/ Tasman region, and for lots of great idea’s for trip planning, have a look here.
Walking
The Nelson region is a mecca for tramping and hiking- with 3 neighbouring National Park’s, there’s plenty of world class scenery to be found, including two of NZ’s famed “Great Walks” (The Heaphy Track and Abel Tasman Track). From day walks to 10+ day adventures, there is something for everyone. For more information, visit the DOC website.
Caving
Tasman/ Golden Bay is also a mecca for the more.. ‘ahem’ .. underground sport. The marble and limestone bedrock that makes up sections of the Nelson/ Tasman region is riddled with caves. From Harwood’s Hole- one of the deepest vertical shafts in the Southern Hemisphere- to the 10’s of kilometres of explored passages beneath Mt Arthur. It’s serious, world-class expert level stuff. If that’s your thing then you should definitely talk to the Nelson Speleological Group… they know a lot more.
Fishing
There’s lots of beaches and lots of rivers so it’s definitely possible, but buggered if I know anything about it.
Cinema
Running since 1987, the Village Theatre in Takaka is one of the classic examples of “funky community cinema”. Its small, charismatic atmosphere is superb on the wet nights and makes a great alternative to the pub. www.villagetheatre.org.nz
Music
As small as Golden Bay is, it has an impressive music scene thrumming away- especially over the summer. Regular folk, rock and world performances are easily found in Golden Bay or elsewhere in the Tasman Region. There are regular electronic dance parties/ festivals in the summer if the doof-doof is your thing.
Mountain Biking
There is a very strong local mountain bike scene in Golden Bay. The GBMC have developed the historic Rameka Track and a superb set of connecting tracks on the Tākaka Hill, as well as the brand new Pikikirunga track which can be shuttled from the Tākaka Hill road. The acclaimed Heaphy Track and Old Ghost Road tracks are in the region, as is the Kaiteriteri Mtb Park. Nelson also ranks in the top tiers of NZ’s mountain bike destinations and has tons of high quality single track. Be sure to check out the Golden Bay Mountain Bike Club and Nelson Mountain Bike Club websites.
Kayaking
Whitewater: The Takaka, Aorere, Anatoki and Waingaro river’s all have quality runs on them with appropriate flows. The Buller River, NZ’s spiritual home of whitewater, is 2.5 hours drive away. Check out rivers.org.nz for more info.
Sea Kayaking: Golden Bay and the nearby Abel Tasman National Park are a sea kayaker’s paradise. For experienced paddlers or first timer’s, we highly recommend that you try getting out for a paddle while you’re here. Golden Bay Kayaks are the local operators, talk to them about guided tours or renting a boat.
Swimming
The High Rocks swimming hole- the best swimming hole in country is two minutes’ walk from camp.. beat that.
Beaches: From the golden sands of the world-famous Abel Tasman National Park, to wild wind swept dunes and bush clad hills on the west coast, and everything in between… just take your pick.
Rivers: There are three fantastic swimming holes in the Tākaka River within 20 minutes walk from camp, including the High Rocks and Willie Hole. These have rope swings, jumps, and superb deep water bouldering. They can get busy, but luckily there are many other river swimming spots in Golden Bay, you’ll just need to quiz the locals to find them.
Food & Beverage
Takaka has a veritable circus of quality venues for eating and drinking, many running on the organic theme and sourcing local produce and ingredients.
The Mussell Inn is literally world-famous. A country pub offering award-winning craft beverages, large organic meals, a warm and family-friendly atmosphere, and regular national and international touring music acts. Visit musselinn.co.nz.
The Roots Bar in Tākaka is always bumping with funky locals, great beverages and food, and live music. A safe bet for a great evening out.
