Riwaka is a very short drive or cycle ride from Motueka. Explore the area as you relax into the holiday vibe of Nelson. While the Riwaka resurgence is a well known scenic attraction there are plenty of things to do nearby. The Abel Tasman National Park is a superb reason to linger in Riwaka and beyond in Golden Bay.
MOTUEKA TO RIWAKA
4.5 km driving distance – 10 minutes
Can you walk from Motueka to Riwaka Resurgence springs?
You can walk the 4.5 km in an hour however access is on a busy, sometimes narrow road, state highway 60. Walk on the Lodder Line side road 4.9 km away for part of the distance.
There is no shade in the summer months.
Conservation focused visitors nearby Riwaka is the birding hot spot,the Raumanuka Reserve, Motueka.
Riwaka Resurgence is beautiful with its moss-covered boulders, a gurgling clear river and crystal springs.
- The walk, through the valley floor is a tapestry of native palms, ferns and shade loving foliage.
- The northern tributary of the Riwaka River wells into a deep spring pool as river water seeps out of the limestone and marble Takaka hill cave network. Stunning ideal short walk for families and kids alike.
- Walkway is found at the end of Riwaka Valley Road, a clearly signposted side road off State Highway 60 as the road starts ascending the Takaka Hill.
For an aerial view of the Riwaka Resurgence, drive up to Hawkes Lookout on Takaka Hill. The spectacular Hawkes Lookout is a five minute walk from the carpark.
WHERE IS THE RIWAKA RESURGENCE LOCATED?
Riwaka features as one of the 10 ideas for a day in Motueka, trip activities, what to do: Best Bits. The rural settlement is at the base of the Takaka hills with busy traffic making its way to summer camping grounds in the Abel Tasman National Park.
Riwaka is home to Hop Federation Brewery, part of the Short break in Nelson exploring craft breweries & art galleries.
WHAT ELSE CAN YOU DO IN RIWAKA APART FROM VISITING THE RIWAKA RESURGENCE?
There is plenty to do in Riwaka, visit Hop Federation Brewery, learn how to be a potter at Motueka Pottery Workshop. Look for artist studio flags fluttering, stop and explore as you chat to the creators. Follow the road up and over the Takaka hill to Golden Bay and Collingwood.
- For a restorative mid morning snack check out Ginger Dynamite Go Go Food and Coffee – Home, Ginger Dynamic is home baked smoked fish pies and freshly brewed ginger beer
- Motueka Pottery Workshop
- JointWorks Studio for handcrafted woven objects & carved wooden pieces
RIWAKA ANNUAL MARKET DAY – JANUARY
Riwaka heralds summer with an annual market in January. This is a very popular event with everything for everyone. Expect crowds of holiday makers and join the throngs as they sample local food and beverage goodies, ponder over artisan stalls and listen to entertainers.
Riwaka Domain has public toilets, picnic tables and a grassed area where the local cricket team hold matches.
WANT TO STAY AWHILE IN RIWAKA, TASMAN BAY?
Every town adds to the richness of things to do and see. For more details about the region check Nelson & Nelson Region nearby attractions and events.
BEST BITS TRAVEL GUIDE
