Just below the summit of Takaka Hill are the Ngarua Caves, a rock-solid attraction, where you can see myriad subterranean delights including moa bones. Access is restricted to tours.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Hop Federation

6.46 MILES

Pop in for tastings and fill a flagon to go at this teeny-weeny but terrific craft brewery. Pick of the ales is the Red IPA.

2. Cleopatra’s Pool

8.04 MILES

A short detour off the Abel Tasman Coast Track between Torrent Bay and Anchorage is Cleopatra's Pool, a beautiful natural rock pool and moss-lined slide.

3. Motueka District Museum

8.47 MILES

Housed in an attractive 1913-built school building, this museum has a tiny but interesting collection of regional artefacts.

4. Rawhiti Cave

9.42 MILES

The ultimate in geological eye-candy around these parts are the phytokarst features of Rawhiti Cave, a 15-minute drive from Takaka (reached via Motupipi,…

5. North Head Lookout

10.03 MILES

Just south of the Falls River swing bridge there's a worthwhile detour to the North Head lookout across the Tasman Sea.

6. South Head Lookout

10.47 MILES

Just south of Bark Bay is one of the Abel Tasman's scenic highlights: the lookout at South Head.

7. Anatoki Salmon

11.74 MILES

Here's your chance to catch a salmon and have it smoked for lunch or prepared as super-fresh sashimi. Rods and instructions are provided, but the fish…

8. Grove Scenic Reserve

11.96 MILES

Between Pōhara and Takaka (signposted down Clifton Rd), you will find this crazy limestone maze punctuated by gnarled old rata trees and tall pencil-thin…