Upper South Island and the West Coast
We’ve compiled the best of the best in Upper South Island and the West Coast - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
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1. Collingwood
After winding past several small farming districts and close to beach communities such as Paton's Rock, Onekaka, and Tukurua, State Highway 60 ends at Collingwood, a small and picturesque seaside village at the mouth of the giant Aorere River, 26 km (16 miles) west of Tākaka. The earliest European settlers came here in the 1840s to build small ships from the timber lining the beaches and to farm the fertile river plain that spills out of the surrounding mountains. In the late-1850s, gold was discovered nearby and Collingwood became a thriving port-of-entry town; at one time it was even under consideration to be the country's capital. Collingwood is a bit out on a limb from the main roads, but nevertheless has much to offer. It's the northern access point for the Heaphy Track Great Walk and the main base for trips to internationally recognized bird-watching site Farewell Spit and to the wild, remote coastline of the northernmost West Coast, notably Wharariki Beach. The town's rich heritage is well documented, in both the small Collingwood Museum and the neighboring Aorere Centre.
View Tours and ActivitiesCollingwood, Tasman, 7073, New Zealand -
2. Totaranui
From Tākaka, the coast road heading northeast leads to Totaranui, the northern entry for Abel Tasman National Park. This scenic road passes through Pohara Beach, which has a few cafés and a holiday park, before winding around to Wainui Bay with its alternative Tūi community (a residential community that welcomes visitors) and cascading Wainui Falls (a 75-minute return walk from the road). From Wainui Bay, the road over the Totaranui Hill is a gravel surface. Take it slowly: it's a gorgeous drive through dense native bush to the coast. Totaranui Beach is a long golden-sand beach that is safe for swimming. This area can also be reached by scheduled boat services from Kaiteriteri and Marahau, on the Motueka side of the Tākaka Hill. It's a slice of pure beach bliss, and there's an unpowered campground with basic facilities. There’s generally a wait-list to camp here for the first few weeks after Christmas, large though it is. Otherwise, you should be fine—however, reservations are required no matter what time of year.
Totaranui, Tasman, New Zealand -
3. Waikoropupu Springs
Six kilometers (4 miles) west of Tākaka you'll find the largest cold-water spring system in the southern hemisphere, the Main Springs, likened to a fresh-water equivalent of a coral reef because of its superb variety of aquatic vegetation. The water here is among the clearest water ever measured, anywhere in the world. Swimming or touching the water is not allowed, to prevent the introduction of weeds and damage to the delicate flora within the springs, so leave your wetsuits and dive gear in the car. Instead, take a leisurely stroll around the Scenic Reserve on the 40-minute, top-quality walk to the Main Springs, Dancing Sand Spring, and Fish Creek Springs. Go quietly—the better to spot tūī, bellbirds, wood pigeons, and other birdlife. The turnoff from State Highway 60 to Pupu Springs Road is signposted on the western side of the Tākaka River bridge. Pick a sunny day when the Springs are fully illuminated.
Pupu Springs Rd., Takaka, Tasman, 7183, New Zealand -
4. Wharariki Beach
A must-see for its dramatic seascapes is Wharariki Beach, out beyond the road to Farewell Spit. To get here, drive past Collingwood to Pakawau and follow the signs. Go as far as the road will take you, and then walk over farmland on a well-defined trail for 20 minutes. Allow at least an hour for the return circuit, along the beach and back via another well-marked track along the Farmpark. Be wary though: it’s too rough for swimming and very easy to get caught by the incoming tide. Remember, this dramatic coast is quite remote, with few people (certainly no lifeguards) and tides change very quickly. Don’t be one of those who gets trapped by the sea walking out to the offshore rocks. Also, among the massive sand dunes you're likely to come across fur seals and their pups. Keep at least a 30-foot distance, as they can move quickly and do bite, and never get between a seal and the sea. It can be very windy here, at which times the sand will whip you like in a Sahara storm. But don’t let any of that put you off this inspiring place. Be sure to bring drinking water; there's none available anywhere at the beach. Amenities: none. Best for: solitude; walking.
Takaka, Tasman, New Zealand -
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