Only 2.5hrs from Nelson but it feels like a world away, Farewell Spit and Wharariki beach offer endless sand, coastal forests and rolling farmland with a lot of walks to choose, from short strolls to full day hikes.
Now one of the most photographed beaches, thanks to being a Windows desktop screensaver, Wharariki beach lives up to the hype. It feels wild and remote, filled with hidden caves and impressive arches.
With rock pools, windswept sand dunes, and rugged rocks, it is extra special at low tide where you can explore the whole beach, nooks and crannies. Home to a seal colony, coastal birds galore, it’s a wildlife lovers paradise!
Stay at Wharariki beach holiday park, right in the heart of Puponga, you couldn’t be closer to get up early to watch the sunrise at Wharariki Beach or roll into your tent after watching the sun set.
Check out the Archway Cafe when you are up here for a good feed, cup of tea and hammocks to chill in and enjoy, right by the beach. The Puponga Hilltop Track is 8km each way, with options to make shorter or longer,to include Cape Farewell and Pillar Point, or check out the Green Hills Track.
You can add a few hours onto your walk and explore Farewell Spit itself - but make sure you stay on the marked paths due to the conversation of the spit.
Farewell Spit Tours offer a great way to explore the region and see the highlights, especially if you are a bird lover - one not to miss!
It’s known to be windy up here, so check the wind before you go!
