Golden Bay
 Shambhala
is located between Collingwood and Takaka in the stunningly beautiful
Golden Bay. Two hours west of Nelson, Golden Bay is reknown for its
natural beauty and a laid-back, artistic ambiance. There's plenty of
things to do, whether you're interested in outdoor life or cultural
attractions. Be sure to allow plenty of time to discover the treasures
of Golden Bay! Some of the area's main attractions are listed below.
Golden Bay Visitor Guide
Virtual Bay - Golden Bay
Takaka
Tiny Takaka is the main business, service and shopping centre for Golden
Bay. Along Commercial Street you can find a number of chilled-out cafes
and restaurants, interesting shops and galleries displaying local art.
The Village Cinema screens both arty and mainstream films.
The I-site information is a good place to find out more about local
attractions, and the DOC office in the centre of the town is the place
to go if you're planning to go tramping in the area - there are several
wonderful tracks to choose from!
Collingwood
If Takaka is tiny, Collingwood is very tiny. It's 11 kms from Shambhala,
and makes a nice stop on the way to Wharariki Beach and the Farewell
Spit. The town is a charming mixture of old and new. A stone's throw
away from the main street you'll find Rosy Glow, a chocolate shop providing
exquisite, hand-made treats for those with a sweet tooth.
Abel Tasman National Park
The Abel Tasman National Park is a place not to be missed when travelling
around New Zealand. The coastal track takes about 3-4 days to walk,
and is world famous for its stunning scenery.The north end of the track
is the most stunning and also the most quiet and easily accessible from
Golden Bay for those just wanting a day walk.Contact a DOC office before
setting off for an overnight tramp.
Pupu Springs
Situated just a few kilometres from Takaka towards Collingwood, Pupu
Springs is well worth a visit. It is rated as the second clearest spring
water in the world, the first being in Antartica. You'll be amazed to
see how crystal clear the water is! It is a 30-minute walk around the
springs, also accessible for wheel chairs.There is also another walk
up the top of the valley,being the Pupu Hydro Walkway.It is a lovely
walk into the hills along a small and interesting hydro operation.
Wharariki beach
Sand dunes, high arches, caves, rock bridges, fur-seals, and seabirds
characterize this superb beach 35 kms from Collingwood. It's a 20-minute
walk from the carpark and a must while you're in Golden Bay. From the
beach there are different walks north and south.
Farewell Spit
The northernmost point of the South Island of New Zealand, Farewell
spit is New Zealand's longest sandspit, 35 kms long and about 800 m
wide. It's a rare bird sanctuary, with over a 100 species living on
it.
Farewell spit is a Nature Reserve with restricted access. There are walks
you can do at the base of the spit only. If you are wanting to go further
out onto the spit. There are 4x tour buses to take you out to the lighthouse.
Kayaking in Golden Bay
There is good kayaking around Tata Islands and beyond.
www.goldenbaykayaks.co.nz
Mussel Inn Cafe/Bar
The Mussel Inn is an institution in Golden Bay, a charming cafe/bar
popular amongst both locals and travellers. It's only a 20-minute stroll
or a few minutes drive from Shambhala and there's a glow-worm track
on the way! The Mussel Inn offers great food, home-brewed beers and
live music and performance nights 2-3 nights a week in summer. The atmosphere
is a cosy as it can get!
Mussel
Inn Website
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