Motueka

Motueka is a sun-drenched town at the edge of Tasman Bay, where the laid-back rhythm of orchard country meets the wild beauty of Abel Tasman National Park. With a thriving café culture, craft breweries, and a strong local arts scene, it's the perfect base for exploring golden beaches, coastal walks, and the region's famous hop and wine trails.

Highlights & What to See

• Abel Tasman National Park – New Zealand's smallest national park, renowned for golden sand beaches, turquoise waters, and the Abel Tasman Coast Track. Kayak, cruise, or hike from Marahau or Kaiteriteri.
• Kaiteriteri Beach – A stunning crescent of golden sand, ideal for swimming, kayaking, and launching water taxis into the park.
• Motueka Sunday Market – A vibrant weekly market with local crafts, fresh produce, and artisan food – a great spot to pick up souvenirs and taste local flavours.
• Hop Federation Brewery & Taproom – Sample craft beers made with locally grown hops in a friendly, rustic setting.
• Riwaka Resurgence – A short walk to a crystal-clear freshwater spring, sacred to Māori and a serene spot for a swim.
• Moutere Hills Wine Trail – Explore boutique wineries and cellar doors producing award-winning Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days in Motueka allows time to explore Abel Tasman National Park by foot or water, relax on Kaiteriteri Beach, and sample the local food and drink scene. If you have a full day, take a water taxi to one of the park's beaches, hike a section of the coast track, and return by kayak. A longer stay lets you delve into the Moutere wine region and nearby natural attractions.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson – The sunny capital of the region, known for its arts scene, craft breweries, and the World of WearableArt museum (45 minutes' drive).
• Golden Bay & Farewell Spit – A wild, remote area accessible via the scenic Takaka Hill road, with dramatic cliffs, bird sanctuaries, and the iconic spit (1–1.5 hours).
• Kahurangi National Park – New Zealand's second-largest national park, offering remote tramping, limestone caves, and the Heaphy Track (accessible from Motueka via Karamea or the Cobb Valley).
• Mapua & Ruby Bay – Charming waterfront villages with galleries, cafés, and a popular farmers' market (20 minutes' drive).
• Marlborough Sounds – A stunning network of drowned river valleys, perfect for kayaking, sailing, and wine tasting in Picton and Havelock (1.5–2 hours).

Please check official sources for current details.