Wainui Falls Track

A short walk through lush native bush leads to the cascading Wainui Falls, the largest and most accessible falls in Golden Bay/ Mohua – there’s also a long swing bridge for children to enjoy.

Where is it?

The track begins from a car park at Wainui Bay, about 20km northeast of Tākaka. Look for the directional sign about 300m after crossing the Wainui River Bridge.

Good to know

Stay together as a group and keep children close as the track has some steep drop-offs in places. Be prepared: ensure you take food and water and wear sturdy footwear.

TIME & DISTANCE: 1hr 20min; 3.4km return

FITNESS: Low to moderate fitness required

TERRAIN: Gentle, 1 flight of stairs

NO DOGS

Track Overview

Start by crossing farmland for a short distance, then walk through a forest of nīkau palms, rātā trees and ferns.

The track climbs rapidly alongside spectacular granite boulders, following the Wainui River. There’s a great suspension bridge on the way; below this you can see old logs piled up after massive floods.

You will know you are close to the falls when you can hear the sound of rushing water.

Return to the Wainui Bay car park on the same track.

After the walk, take some time to explore nearby Tākaka, a town full of character and friendly faces.

The town is the main centre for Golden Bay with a range of accommodation options, restaurants and cafes - including some of the finest organic, vegetarian and vegan cafes in New Zealand. If you're interested in art and craft, you will want to follow the Art Trail.

Wainui Falls

Getty Images

To the northwest of Nelson, the Golden Bay area beckons. A sun-trap and a place of extreme beauty, the Bay is well-known for being an arty, homespun paradise for alternative lifestylers. Naturally, the best way to explore is on foot.

Awaroa Estuary, Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman Aqua Taxi

Abel Tasman National Park

As one of New Zealand’s most lauded walking areas, Abel Tasman National Park fronts the ocean and days can be spent on both the water and the land.

Refreshing swims in cobalt-coloured bays are readily enjoyed, and long tramps through coastal bush are just as moreish. Half-day and full day treks are popular options, as is joining a catamaran for coastal cruises, or skirting the shoreline by kayak to find Split Apple Rock. It’s not uncommon for nosy seals to pop their head above the water while you paddle.

Listen out for wildlife such as tui and bellbirds, picnic on deserted golden sand or sit before a stunning sunset and allow the last rays of sunshine warm your face. Create unique memories by paddling a traditional waka (Māori canoe) along the seashore, or take a small detour to Cleopatra’s Pool where you can glide down nature-made slides into a crystalline lagoon.

There are two ways to get into Abel Tasman National Park; walk in from Mārahau (20 minutes on foot and the main gateway) or, if you’re coming from the north, enter via Tākaka. Mārahau itself offers a lovely beach and plenty of places to stay. You can also book water taxis, hire kayaks and embark on the Abel Tasman Coast Track from here.

Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Getty Images

Looking for a place to stay? Find a huge range of accommodation options, including discounts for AA Members, at travel.aa.co.nz/Hotels

Main Image: Wainui Falls © Getty Images