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Golden Bay has some interesting history so take time while visiting to visit the museums in Takaka and Collingwood or read about the history of Abel Tasman and the Maori Heritage of Golden Bay here.
When Dutch explorer Abel Tasman sailed into New Zealand waters and came upon this ”large and highly elevated land”, he was looking for a great southern continent.
For centuries many had imagined such a land mass in the southern ocean between Australia and South America. The voyage was organised by the Dutch East India Company, looking for opportunities to expand its wealth.
A working steam section with 'Steam Up' days are held at Easter, Labour Weekend, Christmas/New Year. There is a pioneer kitchen with a wood and coal range where scones are baked and served on 'Steam Up' days. Open daily. Admission is by donation.
869 Collingwood-Bainham Road, Rockville. Ph: 03 524 8131
Today, the iwi of Golden Bay are Manawhenua ki Mohua Ngati Tama, Ngati Rarua and Te Atiawa.
In earlier times this area witnessed waves of Maori invasion and settlement long before the arrival of European immigrants. Ngati Tumata Kokiri were thought to have been here for several hundred years before being displaced by Ngati Apa.
In 1828 the migration of North Island iwi to the South Island took place.
5 min to cemetery, with option for longer walk back to Pōhara beach.
A peaceful and shady place for a wander and picnic, perfect for small children. This historic cemetery is a site of great significance for Māori and Pakeha, with upwards of 150 people buried in both marked and unmarked graves, in amongst the trees. Located at the western end of a low-lying sandspit across the Motupipi Estuary, the council reserve is also home to the Tākaka Golf Course, with a walking/cycle trail.
While in Takaka make sure you visit the Museum, located in the shopping centre.
You'll be quickly drawn to the beautifully crafted diorama depicting Abel Tasman's 1642 encounter with local Maori. An educational book detailing this encounter is available for sale at the museum. Wander around displays on Maori and European history of this region. You'll be surprised at the range of material in these and other regular changing displays.
Ride the Red Bus - Gannet Colony Tour, Lighthouse Tour and Wader Watch.
Locally owned and operated for more than 65 years. Farewell Spit is a Nature Reserve and Wetland of International Importance.
Come with us and find out why, while you feel the sun on your face, the breeze in your hair and the sand between your toes. Departure times are set by the tide so bookings are essential.
Discover the rich history of western Golden Bay, from early Maori arrivals to European settlement. Local stories feature agriculture, industry, gold, shipwrecks, lighthouses and the Collingwood fires. Open Daily 10-dusk. Admission by donation.
As befits a town of this age, there is a small museum in the main street. It was established in 1969 in the former 1910 council office building. A stroll back in time with aspects of early development of the district: home, school, gold, coal, timber, farming, military with our 'through the years' photographic display
Nelson Tasman Tourism App
© Golden Bay Promotions Association