Sunday 8 March. Nelson, New Zealand’s sunniest city, is famed for its apples, hops, scallops, and thriving arts scene. On arrival, our local guide will lead a relaxed tiki-tour, beginning with a visit to the historic Moutere Inn, the country’s oldest pub. We then head to Mapua Wharf, a lively coastal hub of boutique shops, galleries, and specialty stores. A scenic drive through Nelson showcases its creative energy, vibrant streets, and seaside charm before we check into The Sails Nelson. That evening, we’ll enjoy a special “Trust the Chef” waterfront dining experience to toast the start of our Golden Bay adventure.

Dinner

Monday 9 March. Heading north to Collingwood, we pause at the summit of Takaka Hill to explore the remarkable Ngarua Caves, home to dramatic stalagmites, stalactites, and even a rare moa skeleton. After lunch in Takaka, we visit the world-renowned Te Waikoropupū Springs – the largest freshwater springs in New Zealand and the Southern Hemisphere’s largest cold-water springs. Their crystal-clear waters are admired via a gentle loop walk. Later, a breathtaking 45-minute scenic flight over Golden Bay offers an unforgettable aerial perspective. We then return to earth and settle into our Collingwood motel for a relaxed evening.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tuesday 10 March. An early start takes us to the Farewell Spit Nature Reserve, an internationally recognised wetland and bird sanctuary stretching 35km along the northern tip of the South Island. Guided by a local expert, we explore its dramatic cliffs, sweeping sands, and rich wildlife, stopping at the historic lighthouse and Fossil Point to uncover the Spit’s history and ecology. After returning to Collingwood for lunch, we continue on to Pōhara Beach. Here, we settle into our accommodation and enjoy the relaxed coastal setting, offering a refreshing new perspective on Golden Bay.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Wednesday 11 March. We begin the day with a scenic walk to Wainui Falls, the largest waterfall in Golden Bay. The well-maintained track is an easy 4km return walk (around 90 minutes). For those who prefer, a slower start to the day or time at the beach is also an option.

Next, we follow the Anatoki River to the Salmon Farm, where we can watch others try their luck fishing, feed eels, and enjoy a delicious lunch of fresh salmon (alternative lunch options are available).

In the afternoon, we explore the intriguing Labyrinth Rocks, a natural maze of limestone formations featuring narrow chasms, arches, and mini-gorges.

On our way back to our accommodation, we stop at Kiwi Spirits Distillery. This boutique, family-owned distillery produces award-winning gin, rum, whiskey, tequila, and liqueurs. Almost all ingredients are sourced locally, making each sip a true taste of Golden Bay craftsmanship.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Thursday 12 March. WWe enjoy a relaxing morning before checking-out of our rooms to make our way back over the Takaka Hill to Motueka where we spend our last 2-nights. We enjoy a stop in Takaka for a wander around before continuing over the hill. 

Fruit growing has been part of the Nelson Tasman region for generations. With cold winters, warm, dry summers and rich alluvial soils the area produces amazing colour, texture and flavour in its fruit. We learn first hand why, when we visit a local orchard and discover the story behind our kiwi apples in one of the worlds larges packhouses!

Breakfast, Dinner.

Friday 13 March. Anchors away! Today we set off on a “Dream Day Out” exploring Abel Tasman National Park. Boarding our boat at Kaiteriteri, we cruise the spectacular granite coastline, pausing for photos at the iconic Split Apple Rock. We then continue on to Medlands Beach where the fitter travellers can then enjoy a 2 hour walk (6.6 km, 4 miles) along the shaded, well-formed coastal track to Torrent Bay, while others can cruise the coast by boat. On arrival to Torrent Bay, we visit a private lodge for a fabulous lunch and take time to relax and enjoy the surroundings and beach as you please. Later in the afternoon, we cruise back to Kaiteriteri, pausing to view the seals on Adele Island.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Saturday 14 March. After a leisurely morning, we check out of our accommodation and make our way back to Nelson to explore the famous Nelson Markets. Internationally recognised for fine local produce and quality artistry, the markets are a delight to wander, with time to browse the many stalls and enjoy lunch at your leisure.

In the afternoon, we take in a few of Nelson’s city sights before heading to the airport for our flights home – a perfect conclusion to our Golden Bay adventure.

Breakfast.