Three things to do in Tākaka and Golden Bay

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At a whopping 34km long, one of the largest natural sandspits in the world has formed at the top of the South Island, the result of continuous coastal erosion and oceanic drift from the West. The Spit forms the ‘birds eye view’ of Golden Bay into the shape of New Zealand’s very own national bird - the kiwi - and it is home to over 90 wetland and migratory bird species of its own... how’s that for irony? As a dedicated wetland of international importance, Farewell Spit is what we like to call paradise for nature lovers, and is home to gannets, godwits, knots, and waders, as well as playful seal pups and cheeky oyster-catchers.

The picture perfect Wainui Falls can be reached with a short onehour return walk through lush native bush. Wainui River is both a relaxing and mesmerising experience, until your senses are awakened by the sound of the falls as they cascade down granite bedrock into the pool below, curtained in a halo of spray. Labyrinth Rocks Park and The Grove Scenic Reserve offer a spectacular experience as you walk through limestone outcrops, with the lookout from The Grove nothing short of extraordinary and the magical shapes, faces and little figurines discoverable at Labyrinth Rocks sure to ignite the imagination of curious little ones.

Sometimes we wonder if there’s something magical in the air in Tākaka and Golden Bay, or if the diverse community of artists and artisans who choose to call this place home is just a coincidence. The vibrant township, which is adorned with colourful murals, oozes an undeniable passion for the arts; with jewellery stores, boutique stalls, art galleries and glassblowing studios occupying the main drag. Creativity and character is deeply rooted in the Golden Bay community, and the Saturday Village Market is a true showcase of this.