Collingwood

Collingwood, a small settlement at the northern tip of the South Island's West Coast, feels like the end of the road – and in many ways it is. This is where State Highway 60 meets the golden sands of Golden Bay, a region of laid-back beach vibes, lush native bush, and a palpable sense of isolation. With the Kahurangi National Park as its backyard and Farewell Spit stretching into the Tasman Sea, Collingwood is a base for those who want to explore one of New Zealand's most untouched corners. The town itself has a handful of cafés, a historic pub, and a genuine frontier spirit.

Highlights & What to See

• Farewell Spit Nature Reserve – A 25km sandspit that's a bird sanctuary and home to a historic lighthouse. Join a guided tour to explore the dunes and spot gannets, godwits, and maybe even seals.
• Kahurangi National Park – New Zealand's second-largest national park offers superb tramping. The Heaphy Track (a Great Walk) starts nearby, but shorter walks like the Cobb Valley or the Fenian Track are equally rewarding.
• Wharariki Beach – A wild, windswept beach with sea caves, seal colonies, and the iconic archway rocks that you'll recognise from Windows 10's desktop wallpaper. Accessible via a 20-minute walk from the carpark.
• Te Waikoropupū Springs – Some of the clearest freshwater springs in the world, with incredible visibility and a sacred significance to Māori. The short walk to the viewing platform is a must.
• Collingwood Museum – A quirky local museum in an old courthouse, filled with gold-mining relics, Māori artefacts, and stories of the area's early settlers.

Suggested Time to Spend

Collingwood is a perfect two-night stop. Spend one day exploring Farewell Spit and Wharariki Beach, and the second day on a short tramp in Kahurangi National Park or visiting the springs. If you're a keen tramper, allow three to four days to do the Heaphy Track or other multi-day walks. The pace here is slow – embrace it.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Takaka – The artistic hub of Golden Bay, 30 minutes south, with galleries, organic cafés, and the iconic Pupu Springs.
• Abel Tasman National Park – Golden Bay's eastern neighbour, famed for golden beaches and the Abel Tasman Coast Track. About 1.5 hours' drive via Takaka.
• Nelson – The sunny city at the top of the South Island, 2.5 hours east via the scenic Takaka Hill road, with wineries, markets, and a vibrant arts scene.
• West Coast (Karamea) – The wild coastline south of Collingwood, including the Oparara Basin Arches and the start of the Heaphy Track. Accessible via State Highway 60 and 67.

Please check official sources for current details.