Things to do in Nelson Tasman
If you are looking for adventurous things to do in Nelson Tasman then you are spoilt for choice. The three national parks are the obvious starting place with mountains, lakes and beaches. However, a small mountain range squeezed between the Kahurangi National Park and the Abel Tasman National Park offers some outstanding options. The area known as Takaka Hill is well known for the winding mountain road that connects Tasman Bay to Golden Bay. Less well known are the attractions and accommodation options.
Things to do on Takaka Hill
At 900 metres, Takaka Hill is really a mountain but Highway 60 provides easy access to mountain walks, bush walks, cave tours, mountain biking and via ferrata climbing. The rock type is a special attraction, being a very old marble that has eroded to unusual shapes with caves and holes. This unique landscape was used as a filming location for the Lord of the Rings movie.
What is via ferrata climbing?
A via ferrata is a rock climbing route on a mountain with fixed steel cables and steel foot rungs that enable people to experience the thrill of mountain climbing without needing rock climbing experience. Climbers just need a sense of adventure, a head for heights, and moderate fitness. Climbers also need helmets, harnesses and lanyards. The Takaka Hill via ferrata is open to the public and it is possible to hire equipment and climb DIY. Guided tours are also available where experienced local guides provide all the equipment, instruction and lots of interesting information about the area.
The via ferrata route to the top of Takaka Hill can be climbed as a day trip from Nelson, Takaka, or Motueka. Or it can be included in your trip from Nelson to Golden Bay. Better still, stay a day or two and combine several activities and get to know this special area. The only road into Golden Bay crosses Takaka Hill so its easy to plan some climbing, caving or short walks into your journey.
Do I need a guide?
Climbing the via ferrata with a guide is a great thing to do. Guides provide safety so you can experience the thrill of the climb but know someone is there to keep you safe and ensure the trip is successful. Guides provide all the safety equipment, instructions, and route finding. They are also knowledgeable in the local area, it’s history, plants and animals.
If you are confident to climb the via ferrata DIY visit https://www.viaferrata.org.nz/
How to book your climb
Go to the Takaka Hill Adventures website for more information and for bookings. Guides are available all year round. www.takakahilladventures.nz
