Golden Bay & Able Tasman Park
Stretching from the sweeping sand dunes of Farewell Spit to picturesque Abel Tasman National Park, Golden Bay, on the north-western tip of the South Island, features some of New Zealand's finest beaches and native forests.
It’s not only the sand that’s golden here – the area is envied for its relaxed and laid-back lifestyle, a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern living. The living’s easy, but one certainly never goes without. Golden Bay features two national parks, caves, scenic wonders, the world-famous Pupu Springs with the purest water on Earth, wildlife and adventure experiences; and the townships are home to wineries, cafes, fine cuisine and a vibrant arts and crafts scene.
The jewel in the crown is Abel Tasman National Park, named for the Dutch explorer who nearly 400 years ago was the first European to sight New Zealand. The park is 50,000 acres of coastal paradise, famed for its golden beaches, tranquil lagoons, crystal-clear water and forested hills stretching beyond.
The area offers a myriad of relaxing recreational opportunities, from game fishing, snorkeling, diving, bush walks, water skiing, and world-class sea kayaking, to just relaxing on your own private beach miles from anyone.
The Abel Tasman Coastal Track, with its endless coves and bays, is one of New Zealand’s great walks, taking 3-5 days to walk its full length. It is home to breathtaking beech forest and harakeke (native flax), and a rich bird life including the kereru (native wood pigeon), bellbird, tui and pukeko. Another famous Golden Bay walk, amongst many, is the Heaphy Track, traversing westwards through vast alpine tussock-land to lush nikau palm forests alongside the pounding West Coast surf.
Golden Bay is the perfect place for a rejuvenating week away, combining all it has to offer with your life of luxury aboard Galerna.
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