Departing Nelson at 7:00 AM or pickup from your accommodation anywhere between Nelson and Collingwood. Travel in a premium, spacious vehicle (max 5 guests) designed for comfort.
Led by Barefoot Tours with 6+ years of West Coast guiding experience. This experience is guided in English. Available in Spanish and Italian for private bookings only.
⸻
Scenic Journey Highlights
- Nelson Wine Region – rolling vineyards and coastal views.
- Tākaka Hill (620m) – stop at Hawkes Lookout for panoramic views over Abel Tasman.
- Tākaka Valley – incredible views of the valley as road follows the river.
- Te Waikoropupū Springs – short walk to some of the clearest freshwater in the world.
- Golden Bay Coastline - take in the beautiful coastline as we navigate to Wharariki.
A food stop is included along the way, with guests free to choose from a selection of local spots in Takaka.
⸻
Wharariki Beach Exploration (4-5 hours)
At the northernmost tip of the South Island, you’ll experience what many consider New Zealand’s most spectacular coastline.
- Walk the Pūponga Hilltop Track out to the beach
- Visit Cape Farewell viewpoints and spot seals from above
- Discover giant sea caves, arches, tunnels, and rock formations
- See the famous Archway Islands
- Discover crystal-clear rock pools, birdlife, and often playful seal pups
This isn’t rushed. You’ll have plenty of time to breath it in, explore, and connect with the landscape. Snacks, sun cream, extra water and first aid will be provided by your guide during the beach exploration.
Of course barefoot is encouraged! Feel the sand, the water, the earth, the real New Zealand in the New Zealand way. But please ensure to bring good walking shoes as not all terrain is barefoot friendly.
⸻
The Barefoot Tours Difference
- Small group (max 5) – personal, comfortable, flexible and relaxed.
- Fun, enthusiastic, open floor style guiding with plenty of knowledge, facts, stories and local history.
- A focus on wellbeing, connection to nature (grounding, fresh air, movement)
- History of service for high-net-worth clients, we deliver a world class experience with exceptional attention to safety, detail and guest satisfaction.
- A genuinely authentic New Zealand experience — not a bus tour.
