Farewell Spit Eco Tours
Experience Farewell Spit Eco Tours from Golden Bay
Nestled at the edge of Golden Bay, New Zealand, Farewell Spit—also known as Onetahua—is one of the world’s longest sand spits and a globally significant wetland and bird sanctuary. At approximately 35 km long, its remote beauty is fiercely protected by the Department of Conservation, with access beyond the first 4 km limited exclusively to licensed guided tours.
That’s where Farewell Spit Eco Tours comes in—your gateway to exploring this extraordinary landscape safely and responsibly. Operating from Collingwood, this family-run business has been leading tours since 1946. Their specialty? Educating visitors on the unique wildlife, shifting dunes, Māori heritage, and conservation efforts that make Farewell Spit a treasure.
Tour Options
1. Signature Farewell Spit Tour (6–6.5 hours)
- Explore the full expanse of the Spit, including:
- Puponga and the tip at Cape Farewell, the South Island’s northernmost point
- Fossil Point, with fossilized shells and wormcasts in ancient mudstone cliffs
- The historic lighthouse reserve, complete with a climbable tower and Māori pouwhenua (commemorative post)
- Towering sand dunes offering sweeping 360° coastal panoramas
- Intertidal mudflats rich with migratory waders, especially during spring and summer (like godwits and knots)
2. Gannet Colony Tour (6.5 hours)
- Venture 2 km past the lighthouse to reach New Zealand’s newest mainland gannet colony, right at sea level.
- Enjoy a 20‑minute stroll across sand flats to observe thousands of gannets nesting and caring for their young—often flying curiously close.
- Includes stops for refreshments at the lighthouse keeper’s cottage, dune climbs, and serene reserve time.
- Limited to around 20 people per day—booking early is a must (operates September–April)
3. Wader Watch Tour (2–4 hours)
- Time your visit with the rising tide, when migratory birds (like bar-tailed godwits, knots, and turnstones) flock to the mudflats to roost and feed.
- Tours are highly selective—available about one-third of the time—and capped at small group sizes (4–10 people).
- Ideal for passionate birdwatchers seeking an intimate wildlife experience.
Why Choose Farewell Spit Eco Tours?
Authentic Experience & Conservation Focus
- Seventy years of experience: Farewell Spit Tours began in 1946 delivering mail to lighthouse families—today it’s a trusted eco-tour provider.
- Environmental stewardship:
- Collaborative pest control programs with the Department of Conservation and local iwi
- Annual beach clean‑ups and strict “leave‑no‑trace” policies
- Founding member of the Nelson Sustainable Tourism Charter
Expert-Guided Tours & Comfort
- Tours led in custom 4WD buses designed for rugged coastal conditions—quiet, comfortable, and expertly maintained.
- Guides deliver rich naturalist commentary covering geology, Māori stories, wildlife, and ecological insights.
- Most tours include muffins and hot drinks, with full lunch options available at a small extra charge.
Planning Your Visit & Highlights
Tour Essentials
- Departure point: Collingwood (Tasman Street) Next to The Station House Motel
- Best time to visit: For birdlife and wildlife—September to April; for other seasons, the signature Farewell Spit Tour runs year‑round.
- What to bring: Binoculars, camera, layered clothing, sunhat, and water. Guides will provide hot drinks and snacks.
Highlights at a Glance
| Highlight | Description |
|---|---|
| Bird Spectacle | Seasonal gatherings of migratory waders and large gannet colonies—birdwatching heaven. |
| Geological Wonders | Fossil Point and constantly shifting sand dunes sculpted by wind and tides. |
| Cape Farewell | Dramatic cliffs, panoramic oceanscapes, and wildlife like seals. |
| Lighthouse Reserve | Historic structure, cultural artifacts, and peaceful atmosphere. |
| Eco‑tour Ethics | Tours are guided, low-impact, conservation-focused—ensuring long-term protection. |
What Visitors Say
As one traveler on Reddit remarked:
“Strongly recommend… It was so interesting and the highlight of my tour to Golden Bay.”
Another added:
“Felt like I was back in Namibia… a true wilderness… the end of the earth.”
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
Embark on a Farewell Spit Eco Tour and journey beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, nature lover, photographer, or adventure seeker, these tours offer a rare glimpse into one of New Zealand’s most remote and fragile ecosystems—guided by experts who deeply respect and protect the land.
Book now to secure your place—these tours fill quickly, especially the Gannet Colony and Wader Watch experiences.
For accommodation in Collingwood, NZ please click here for The Station House Motel
To view The Farewell Spit Eco Tour website, Farewell Spit Website
