Exploring the Townships of Golden Bay

Golden Bay / Mohua, at the very top of New Zealand’s South Island, is a place where rugged coastlines, golden beaches, lush valleys, and creative communities combine to offer an unforgettable escape. For visitors, each township and settlement has its own character, attractions, amenities, and pace — from the vibrant hub of Tākaka, to the serene bays of Pōhara and Tata, to the historic charm of Collingwood. Below are the main places.

Takaka

What its like? The largest service centre in Golden Bay. Bustling but relaxed, full of artisans, cafés, galleries, shops. A great base for exploring.

• Wander its main street and explore art & crafts shops.
• Visit the Te Waikoropupū Springs (“Pupu Springs”) nearby – crystal clear, spiritually significant.
• Use Tākaka as launch point for walks into Kahurangi National Park, the Heaphy Track, or drive over Takaka Hill for dramatic landscapes

For details on Takaka please click here.

Collingwood

Whats is like? More laid‑back than Tākaka; historic, scenic. Perfect if you want coastal charm without being too remote

• Use Collingwood as gateway to Wharariki Beach, Farewell Spit and The langford Store.
• Explore nearby bays, walks, beaches. Slower pace, good for relaxing, photo walks.
• Historic architecture, arts, café options.

For details please click here.

Pakawau

On the western edge of Golden Bay. More remote, quieter, more rural. Great for isolation, stargazing, enjoying the slow rhythm.

• Beach walks, estuary views, landscape photography.
• Great base if you want to escape crowds but still within reach of other Bay attractions.

Pohara, Tata Beach, Ligar Bay

Coastal bays at the southern end of Golden Bay. Lighter population in off‑season, busy in summer. Beaches are beautiful; water‑based recreation is a highlight.

For general Golden Bay details please click here.

Seasonal & Practical Considerations

• Population & Crowds: Permanent population in Golden Bay is about 5,000, but in summer many more people arrive in holiday homes, campgrounds etc. In peak holiday season, some settlements triple in visible population.
• Weather & Access: The area is generally temperate; winter is cooler. Rainfall is year‑round, with June being one of the wetter months. Roads like Takaka Hill can be affected by weather – check conditions.
• Transport: Best to have a car, or self‑drive, to fully explore. Many of the smaller bays and rural roads are not serviced by public transport. Fuel, supplies etc are more reliably found in Tākaka.