Natural Attractions

The Standouts Are Really Something

Golden Bay is where the natural attractions hit differently. Te Waikoropupu Springs has water clarity that's among the best in the world - officially 76 to 81 metres visibility, and the theoretical maximum for pure water is only 83. It's easily accessible, the sun helps bring out the aqua colour so arriving a bit later works in your favour, and you don't need to fight for it the way you would in busier parts of the country. You can't swim here, but just standing at the edge of it feels like enough. Then there's Wharariki Beach - caves, arches, seal pups messing around in rock pools at low tide. Time it for low tide if you can, and don't just turn right when you get there. Turn left too, that's where the pups tend to hang out.

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The Wainui Falls and the Grove Are Worth Your Time Too

Wainui Falls Track is a solid family walk to a thumping waterfall surrounded by bush. Not far away, The Grove is an easy stroll through a natural maze of towering rata trees and nikau palms - genuinely good for anyone from age two upwards. Over near Motueka, the Riwaka Resurgence is sacred (Wahi Tapu) at the outlet itself, so best viewed only, but the crystal pool nearby is one of the coldest plunges you'll find anywhere if you're game. On the drive in from Marlborough, Pelorus Bridge is worth a proper stop rather than a windshield wave - the aqua-coloured river water is something else on a clear day, and the swing bridge walk is easy fun.

Getting Out On the Water Changes Things

A lot of the best natural scenery here is best seen from the water. Abel Tasman has the Split Apple Rock, the Tonga Arches, the seal colonies, and Adele Island bird sanctuary - all much better appreciated by kayak or boat than from a carpark. If you're sea kayaking, throw in promo code RANKERS for 10% off, same goes for boat cruises out of Kaiteriteri. Early starts matter out here - before 9am at Split Apple Rock is a different world compared to mid-morning when the tour boats arrive.