Collingwood Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Collingwood, New Zealand. Our guide covers all the must-visit attractions, hiking routes, accommodation, and more!


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Collingwood, New Zealand

Welcome to Collingwood, a picturesque town located in Golden Bay, Nelson Bays, in the South Island of New Zealand. With its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and exciting outdoor activities, Collingwood is a top destination for travelers from around the world. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history buff, foodie, or nature lover, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.

List of Places to Visit in Collingwood

Collingwood boasts numerous attractions, from museums and historical sites to natural wonders and scenic views. Here are some of the top places you should add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Te Awhina Marae: This marae (Maori meeting place) is a must-visit for those looking to learn about Maori culture and history.
  • Aorere Centre: This interactive museum showcases the history of the Collingwood area, from early Maori settlements to European colonization.
  • Collingwood Cemetery: The final resting place of many early settlers, including infamous 19th-century gangster Joseph Sullivan, is a fascinating historical site.

Natural Attractions of Collingwood: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wharariki Beach: This stunning beach is surrounded by rock formations and offers a scenic walk along the coast.
  • Farewell Spit: A popular spot for birdwatching, hiking, and scenic views, this sandspit extends over 25 km into the ocean.
  • Pupu Springs: Known for their crystal-clear water, these springs are sacred to the local Maori and are a great place for a peaceful hike.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Collingwood

The region surrounding Collingwood is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise, with numerous scenic trails and routes to explore. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Heaphy Track: One of New Zealand’s great walks, this 80km trail takes you through varied terrain, from beech forests to coastal rainforests.
  • Pupu Hydro Walkway: This easy 7km loop track offers scenic views of the Pupu Valley and the Collingwood town.

Best Things to Do in Collingwood: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or new experiences, Collingwood has plenty to offer. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Kayaking and Stand Up Paddleboarding: Explore the scenic coastline of Golden Bay with a guided kayak or SUP tour.
  • Horse Trekking: Take a leisurely horseback ride through the beautiful countryside.
  • Golden Bay Air Scenic Flights: Get a bird’s eye view of the stunning scenery with a scenic flight over the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Collingwood

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Collingwood, here’s a sample itinerary that covers the highlights:

Day 1: Te Awhina Marae and Pupu Springs Day 2: Wharariki Beach and Farewell Spit Day 3: Aorere Centre and Horse Trekking Day 4: Kayaking/Stand Up Paddleboarding and Collingwood Cemetery Day 5: Heaphy Track Hike Day 6: Golden Bay Air Scenic Flight and Relaxation Day Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Collingwood

Collingwood has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of options for every taste and budget. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Green-lipped mussels: A local delicacy, these mussels are known for their sweet, succulent flavor.
  • Nelson Bay scallops: Another local favorite, these scallops are known for their tender texture and delicate flavor.
  • Paua fritters: These fritters are made with the meat of the paua (abalone) and are a popular seafood snack.

Local Beverages

  • Nelson wine: The region is home to numerous award-winning wineries, producing some of New Zealand’s best wines.
  • Craft beer: The region has a vibrant craft beer scene, with many breweries offering tastings and tours.
  • Kawakawa tea: Made from the leaves of the kawakawa plant, this herbal tea has a sweet, minty flavor.

Where to Stay in Collingwood: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Collingwood offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some suggestions:

  • The Station House Motel: This historic building has been renovated into a cozy motel that offers comfortable rooms and great views.
  • Collingwood Park Motel: Located next to the Collingwood cemetery, this motel offers spacious rooms and an outdoor swimming pool.
  • Collingwood Backpackers: This hostel is a great option for budget travelers, with dormitory-style rooms and a communal kitchen.

What to Buy in Collingwood: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Collingwood is known for its unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some items you should consider bringing home:

  • Greenstone jewelry: Greenstone (also known as pounamu) is a type of jade that is sacred to the Maori people, and is often used to make jewelry.
  • Manuka honey: Produced by bees that feed on the nectar of the manuka tree, this honey is known for its antibacterial properties and unique flavor.
  • Kiwiana gifts: Kiwiana (New Zealand-themed) gifts, such as t-shirts, mugs, and keychains, are a great way to remember your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Collingwood

Collingwood has a rich cultural heritage, with strong ties to both Maori and European cultures. It’s important to respect and observe local customs and etiquette. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Maori culture: Maori culture is an important part of New Zealand’s heritage, and visitors should take the time to learn about it and show respect for its traditions.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not a common practice in New Zealand, and is not expected in most situations.
  • Greetings and introductions: When meeting someone for the first time, it’s customary to shake hands and introduce yourself.

Best Time to Visit Collingwood

The best time to visit Collingwood depends on the activities and experiences you’re looking for. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:

  • Summer (December-February): If you’re looking for warm weather and beach activities, summer is the best time to visit.
  • Autumn (March-May): The autumn months offer cooler weather and great hiking conditions.
  • Winter (June-August): While it can be cold and rainy, winter is a great time for skiing and snowboarding in nearby snowfields.
  • Spring (September-November): The spring months offer mild weather and beautiful blooms, making it a great time for outdoor adventures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Collingwood

To ensure a pleasant and respectful trip, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions: Take the time to learn about Maori culture and show respect for its traditions.
  • Be mindful of the environment: Collingwood is home to many delicate ecosystems and natural wonders, so be sure to practice responsible tourism.
  • Plan ahead: Some activities and attractions require advanced booking, so be sure to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Keep Collingwood’s beautiful environment clean by disposing of your rubbish properly.
  • Ignore road rules: New Zealand has strict road rules, so be sure to follow them to ensure your safety and those of others around you.
  • Engage in illegal activities: New Zealand has strict laws against drugs and other illegal activities, so be sure to respect the laws and regulations.

Safety and Health

Collingwood is generally a safe and healthy destination, but it always pays to be prepared. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy during your trip:

Safety in Collingwood

  • Driving safety: If you plan on driving, be sure to familiarize yourself with New Zealand’s road rules and drive carefully on narrow and winding roads.
  • Outdoor safety: If you plan on hiking or engaging in outdoor activities, be sure to bring appropriate gear and clothing and follow safety guidelines.
  • Water safety: New Zealand’s waters can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced swimmers, so be sure to follow safety guidelines.

Health in Collingwood

  • Sun safety: The New Zealand sun can be strong, so be sure to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing.
  • Insect bites: Mosquitoes and sandflies can be a nuisance, so be sure to bring insect repellent.
  • Medical services: Collingwood has a medical center and pharmacy, but for serious medical emergencies, you may need to travel to a larger town.

Getting to Collingwood: Transportation Options and Logistics

Collingwood is a remote town, but there are several ways to get there. Here are some transportation options and logistics to keep in mind:

  • Airports Near Collingwood: The closest airports to Collingwood are Nelson Airport (120km away) and Takaka Aerodrome (23km away).
  • Bus Stations Near Collingwood: There are no bus stations in Collingwood, but there are several bus companies that stop in nearby towns like Takaka and Nelson.
  • Other Options: You can also reach Collingwood by car or camper van, or by taking a scenic ferry ride from Wellington or Picton.

How to Get Around in Collingwood

While Collingwood is a small town, there are several transportation options available for visitors:

  • Car rental: Renting a car is the easiest way to get around Collingwood and the surrounding area.
  • Bicycle rental: Bicycles are available for rent and are a great way to explore the countryside.
  • Taxi services: There are several taxi companies operating in Collingwood.

Where to Go Next from Collingwood: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you still have time, there are many nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring:

  • Abel Tasman National Park: This stunning park is just a short drive away and offers scenic walks, beaches, and water activities.
  • Nelson: This charming city is just a few hours’ drive away and offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, great food, and waterfront activities.
  • Takaka: This quirky town is just a short drive away and offers unique art galleries, cafes, and local markets.

Conclusion

Collingwood is a unique and welcoming destination, offering visitors a glimpse into New Zealand’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, history, or delicious food, Collingwood has something for everyone. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip and explore all that this charming town has to offer!

Archway Islands at Wharariki Beach Archway Islands at Wharariki Beach