Things to do

things to do see and do around Golden Bay

The Naked Possum is one of New Zealand’s most charming gems. Just 6 minutes from Song of the Tui, this eco tourism experience will ignite your passion to preserve native forests and birds. Linger awhile and learn about the Naked Possum’s natural bark tanning methods, browse through their studio and shop, relax on the café deck and indulge in coffee, local wines and  their wild game menu, or treat your family to a picnic relaxing by the river.


Mussel Inn is a real rustic Kiwi experience with good wholesome food, fine boutique beers produced in their own brewery, excellent live music and friendly atmosphere.

The Heaphy Track  in the Kahurangi National Park, is one of New Zealand’s great  walking tracks where you can experience some of the best scenery in the country.  Take a 5 day Heaphy Track guided tour or hike the 86km track at your own pace. We provide courtesy pick-up and drop off from the beginning of the Heaphy Track. We are currently running a special deal ($900) with Helicopter Charter Karamea: leave your car at the lodge, walk the track and a helicopter will pick you up at the coastal end and fly you back to the lodge.

Wharariki Beach wild and beautiful – wind and waves have created massive rock and sand dune formations. The caves, islands, and arches, where seals breed, are among the most dramatic in the country.

Abel Tasman National Park famous for its golden beaches, granite cliffs, and coastal track, it is a wonderful place to visit,  explore, kayak and sail any time of the year.


Farewell Spit is a nature reserve on a sand spit jutting into the Tasman Sea. You can walk on the base of the spit, and there are excellent 4WD (four-wheel drive) safaris (based in Collingwood) along to the lighthouse and bird habitats.

Te Waikoropupu (Pupu) Springs near Takaka are known for the clarity of the water and are New Zealand’s largest freshwater springs and a ‘wahi tapu’ (scared place) to the local Maori.

Reg Turner Artist
Your host is also a artist and his original paintings feature at Song of the Tui.
Visit his art web site to view his work 

…and much  much more on your doorstep when you stay at ‘Song of the Tui’…