Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(
www.doc.govt.nz
)
The ultimate in geological eye candy around these parts are the phytokarst
features of Rawhiti Cave, 15 minutes' drive from Takaka (reached via Motupipi, turning
right into Glenview Rd, then left into Packard Rd and following the signs). The rugged
two-hour-return walk (steep in places; dangerous in the wet) may well leave you speech-
less (although we managed 'monster', 'fangs', and even 'Sarlacc').
Golden Bay Museum & Gallery
(Commercial St; admission by donation; 10am-4pm)
This small museum's standout exhibits in-
clude a diorama depicting Abel Tasman's 1642 landing, and some dubious human taxi-
dermy. Ask about the albatross. The adjoining gallery offers satisfying browsing of local
and national knick-knackery and quite possibly the purchase of a quality souvenir. For ad-
ditional arty ambling, look for the free
Artists in Golden Bay
and
Arts Trail
pamphlet
s.
MUSEUM
Pupu Hydro Walkway
This enjoyable two-hour circuit passes through beech forest, past engineering and gold-
mining relics to the restored (and operational) Pupu Hydro Powerhouse, built in 1929. To
get here, take the 4km gravel road signposted from Pupu Springs Rd.
WALKING
Adventure Flights Golden Bay
( 03-525 6167, 0800 150 338;
www.adventureflightsgoldenbay.co.nz
;
Takaka Airfield)
Scenic and charter
flights around Golden Bay and surrounds; from $40.
SCENIC FLIGHTS
Golden Bay Air
( 03-525 8725, 0800 588 885;
www.goldenbayair.co.nz
;
Takaka Airfield)
Scenic and charter flights
around Golden Bay and surrounds; from $49.
SCENIC FLIGHTS
Sleeping
HOSTEL
$
Kiwiana
( 03-525 7676, 0800 805 494;
www.kiwianabackpackers.co.nz
;
73 Motupipi St; tent sites per person $18, dm/s/d
$28/45/66; )
Beyond the welcoming garden is a cute cottage where rooms are named
after classic Kiwiana (the jandal, Buzzy Bee…). The garage has been converted into a
convivial lounge, with wood-fired stove, table tennis, pool table, music, books and games;
free bikes for guest use.
