Destinations: Top of the South
From Nelson Tasman and Marlborough to Golden Bay, the Top of the South encompasses some of New Zealand’s loveliest scenery, and destinations.
During summer, the Top of the South is renowned for its warm climate, stunning beaches, creative artisans, wine country, and heartland towns, many less than a day’s travel from Christchurch.
Marlborough is its southern gateway. From vine-laden valleys to family-friendly bays and beaches in three waterways that make up the Marlborough Sounds,
it is brimming with places to see and things to do.
Neighbouring region Nelson Tasman is known for its long golden beaches, eateries, and artistic community, with more than 300 working artists and a plethora of galleries, and boutique craft breweries. Nelson Tasman is home to three national parks, and is a great place to explore by boat, bicycle, on foot, or kayak.
Some of the most spectacular sights are in Golden Bay, a piece of paradise on the southern side of Tākaka Hill. Travel over the Marble Mountain, with limestone outcrops, and sweeping views, down into the valley offering sandy golden beaches, rivers plentiful for fishing or relaxing by, native bush, caves and natural springs.
IMAGE: www.nelsontasman.nz and Bare Kiwi
Hot spots & things to do:
Marlborough: The Marlborough region is about world-famous sauvignon blanc, delicious fresh seafood and diverse landscapes, from valleys of vines to sheltered waterways.
One way to enjoy its scenic beauty is to walk or cycle the Queen Charlotte Track, stretching 70km from Ship Cove to Anakiwa. Swimming with dolphins, sampling the wares at one of the 30 plus winery cellar doors, and discovering aviation history at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre are all recommended. Browse Sir Peter Jackson’s own rare collection of historical aircraft and memorabilia while there. Enroute to Nelson, Havelock, the self-proclaimed “Greenshell Mussel capital of the world” is full of quaint colonial buildings housing boutique galleries, and eating places serving mussels.
Nelson Tasman: This is one province that has it all, from wine, food, and craft brews, to golden beaches, scenic waterways, and family-friendly, dog-friendly, couple-friendly activities and places to visit. Its numerous art galleries are a nod to the area’s creative residents, and its smaller towns have a charm all of their own. Nelson, Richmond, and Motueka are the main centres, however many smaller towns such as coastal Māpua, Sarau (Upper Moutere), and Tasman have their own attractions, artisans, markets, and festivals, putting them on the must-do list of places to experience.
Golden Bay: With only one road in, Golden Bay is well worth the drive over Tākaka Hill. One of New Zealand’s “best kept secrets”, it comes alive during the summer months as visitors flock to golden sand beaches such as Tōtaranui, in the Abel Tasman National Park. Other local gems include Wainui Bay with multiple walking tracks, isolated Wharariki Beach with huge sand dunes, caves, and, at the right time of year, baby seals splashing in the rock pools. Visit one of Golden Bay’s most beautiful treasures, Te Waikoropupū Springs. New Zealand’s largest freshwater springs and the largest cold water springs in the Southern Hemisphere, the crystal clear water bubbles out of the earth at 14,000 litres per second, dancing with light to create shimmering turquoise hues.
