Impossibly gold sand, soft teal shallow water with barely a ripple and the bush reaching out to nestle against rocks and coastline is the recipe for a beautiful beach. The beach is accessible by water taxi or a gravel road (approximately 30 minutes) from Takaka. The two islands of Motu and Ngawhiti, also known as the ‘Tata Islands’ add to the picturesque scenic beach. Bird watchers enjoy observing New Zealand’s largest colony of spotted shags. There are seals and penguins on the islands which can be reached for up close observation on a kayak.
TIP
Spotted shags regard the beach as their own with sunset a popular time to fluff their tails and regurgitate small stones (‘rangle’) in their gizzards on Tata Beach. For more information about the spotted shag check out the travel pack information section.
TOP SIGHTS
- Golden Bay Kayaks, a local family business who can show you round their backyard. The kayaking operation has no age restrictions
- Paddle entire length of the Abel Tasman National Park
- Bespoke Eco Private tours and Luxury Packages
- The scenery from the cliffs of Tata Islands, gold sands and aquarium water
- Within the Abel Tasman National Park, paddle through the nearby granite arches to well known Wainui Bay
TIP
Golden Bay access is a sealed road although it is windy, narrow and busy in the summer season. You are nearby Collingwood, a pretty historic town with plenty to do and see. Check out for inspiration about Abel Tasman National Park.
