Farewell Spit Eco Tours
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Farewell Spit Eco Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Farewell Spit: The Complete Trip-Planning Guide
Lazing Bee / Getty Images
Farewell Spit reaches out from the far north-western tip of New Zealand's South Island into the Tasman Sea, creating the northern boundary of Golden Bay . It's a narrow sand bank that's 16 miles long at high tide and 19.5 miles long at low tide, but less than one mile wide at its widest. It's an internationally renowned bird sanctuary and breeding ground, and is on UNESCO's "tentative" World Heritage Site list.
Independent travel to Farewell Spit is limited to a small area at its base, around the Puponga Farm Park and Cape Farewell. To venture further along the spit, travelers must join a guided tour.
What to See and Do
Birds, wildlife, and beaches are the main reasons to visit Farewell Spit. Plus, visiting the northernmost tip of the South Island is a modest bucket-list adventure.
- As independent visitors are allowed on the first 2.5 miles of Farewell Spit, it's possible to visit just for the beaches. The Tasman Sea side of Farwell Spit has white-sand beaches, whereas the Golden Bay side is more muddy and tidal, with a huge tidal range of up to 4.5 miles. Be aware that Farewell Spit is often very windy, so this is more of a place to enjoy a brisk beach walk than to lounge in the sun. Wharariki Beach, reached via a short walk over private farmland at Puponga Farm Park, is certainly one of the most dramatic beaches in the whole country . Visit at low tide and you might see fur seals playing in the rock pools. Horse treks also operate along Wharariki Beach.
- Cape Farewell is near Wharariki Beach. It's the northernmost point of the South Island. The cliffside views are dramatic, but keep kids close as the fence doesn't stretch the whole way and it's often very windy.
- More than 80 bird species have been recorded on Farwell Spit, particularly migratory birds and wetland birds. Species that can be seen here include little blue penguins, godwits, Australasian gannets, oystercatchers, dotterels, sandpipers, herons, and black swans. The godwits, despite their unassuming appearance, are especially impressive as they migrate all the way from Alaska every year.
- Fur seals can also be seen all along the spit, from the rockpools of Wharariki Beach to just lazing in the sun further down.
Elen Turner
The Different Tours of Farewell Spit
Most of Farewell Spit is administered by New Zealand's Department of Conservation due to its importance as a bird habitat. Only one company has permission to take tourists to Farewell Spit, so that makes planning easy. Farewell Spit Tours operates from Collingwood, and take visitors out on large four-wheel-drive buses designed to drive on the sand.
Farewell Spit Tours offer three types of tour: the classic Farewell Spit tour, a tour to see the gannet colony on the spit, and a tour to see wading birds. Bird enthusiasts will especially enjoy the bird-themed tours, although even the general tour allows you to see some birds and wildlife. The general tour lasts for about six hours and goes all the way to the decommissioned lighthouse near the end of the spit, where you can stop for a tea break.
The timing of the tours depends on the tides and the season. As some of the birds found at Farewell Spit are migratory, they can only be seen at certain times of the year.
How to Visit Without a Tour
If you don't want to join a tour but still want to experience something of the spit, independent visitors are permitted on the first 2.5 miles of the spit and at the Puponga Farm Park. Cape Farewell and Wharariki Beach can be reached from the parking lot at Puponga, so are easy for independent visitors to get to. There are a number of short walking trails around the Puponga park that offer great views of Farewell Spit and Golden Bay. Just be mindful of the fact that the park crosses private, working farmland, so pay attention to any signs saying where you can and cannot walk.
Where to stay
Takaka (population 1,300) is the biggest town in Golden Bay and offers the widest range of accommodation options. There are backpacker hostels, motels, guesthouses, and campgrounds. The Shady Rest is a particularly lovely boutique guesthouse in a century-old home on Takaka's main street. They serve fresh-cooked breakfasts, there's a cozy common lounge with a fireplace, and there's even an outdoor bathtub.
A 20-minute drive further along State Highway (SH) 60 is Collingwood (population 235), which also has some peaceful hotels and guesthouses. Zatori is a great option as there are rooms to suit various budgets (from bunk-bed dorms to private rooms with ensuite bathrooms) and the common lounge has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Collingwood Estuary.
Collingwood is closest to Farewell Spit, and is where tours leave from. Many travelers opt to stay in Takaka though, as there are more places to eat, drink, and shop.
How to Get there
Whether you take a guided tour or go it alone, you'll need your own vehicle to get to Golden Bay and Farewell Spit. A limited number of private shuttles run between Nelson/Motueka and Golden Bay, but these are primarily for trekkers embarking on the Heaphy Track in the Kahurangi National Park .
From Nelson city, Takaka is about a two-hour drive (around 1.25 hours from Motueka), while Collingwood is about another 20-30 minutes along SH60. From Collingwood, the Puponga Farm Park is about another 45 minutes' drive.
The drive over the Takaka Hill from Riwaka/Motueka is slow and winding. It is the only access road to Golden Bay, so if there's an accident or bad weather, the road can be closed. If you're traveling with anyone who suffers from motion sickness, take your time driving over the Takaka Hill and take advantage of the rest spots, such as at the Ngarua Caves or Hawke's Lookout.
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Farewell Spit
Farewell Spit Tours, Nelson Tasman
By Farewell Spit
Nelson Tasman
- Bird sanctuary
- Historic lighthouse
- Beach caves, arches
From Takaka, follow State Highway 60 north.
With open sea on one side and sheltered waters on the other, this massive sandspit has two entirely different faces.
Golden Bay, Nelson Tasman
By Nelson Regional Development Agency
Farewell Spit, Nelson Tasman
Farewell Spit stretches 34km long, making it one of the longest natural sandspits in the world. A wetland of international importance, it has been a bird sanctuary since the 1930’s and provides a home for over 90 bird species. Bar tailed godwits, knots, curlews, whimbrels and turnstones fly around 12,000 kilometres every northern hemisphere autumn to spend the summer here in the south. The spit also has a gannet colony.
To guide passing ships, Farewell Spit's first lighthouse was built in 1869. In the early years the lighthouse site had no vegetation and windblown sand was an ongoing problem for the keepers. Then one clever keeper organised for small loads of soil to be delivered with the mail. He planted a windbreak of macrocarpa pines which are still there to this day. The pines protect the station from the shifting sands and provide a daylight landmark for passing ships.
The best way to experience the entire length of the spit is on a 4WD safari. You'll find tour operators in nearby Collingwood, and it is worth choosing a tour that incorporates a visit to Cape Farewell, the northernmost point of the South Island. If you’re lucky, you may even see some seal pups basking in the sun below.
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EcoFind > Products and Services > Farewell Spit Eco Tours, Golden Bay, New Zealand
Farewell Spit Eco Tours, Golden Bay, New Zealand
Come with us to a special place, where you can view the historic Lighthouse and explore its reserve. Our most popular tour is our Farewell Spit Eco tour which departs from Collingwood and visits Cape Farewell, the South Island’s most northern point and includes our lighthouse tour.
One Comment/Review
Went on the Farewell Spit Eco Tour just last week - fantastic!
Although I've lived in the region for over 25 years and have done some walks on and close to the Spit, this tour was a first for me.
The weather was near perfect which no doubt was a bonus, but I've come away inspired and informed. The area has a rich history and the Spit itself has a story to tell about how we value and treat unique environments like this.
If you're planning a visit to the region, this is a must-do!
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Farewell Spit Eco Tours
Listing last updated March 3, 2016
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Farewell Spit Eco Tours
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FAREWELL SPIT ECO TOURS (Collingwood) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
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Farewell spit tour.
Cape Farewell, Golden Bay: The Very Top of the South Island
By Author Jon Algie
Posted on Last updated: May 1, 2023
Categories Golden Bay
Cape Farewell, the northern-most tip of the South Island, is a place pretty much everyone who visits Golden Bay will have on their itinerary. You’ll get a decent look at it from close to the car park but keep reading and I’ll let you know where to go for the best views.
Cape Farewell Viewpoint
The first time we visited Cape Farewell it was close to sunset and we were in a rush to get to Wharariki Beach. We were underwhelmed with what we saw in the fading light, so a few years later (in April 2023) we returned in the hope of a better experience. And that’s exactly what happened.
The main viewpoint is a good place to see Cape Farewell, but walk a short distance in either direction and things get a lot more impressive. The two short walks below are part of the Puponga Farm Track, a much longer walk linking the sights along this stretch of coastline.
A Short Walk East
From the main viewpoint turn right (east) and take the track you can see heading up the hill. It takes you along a ridge and across farmland, with views back towards Cape Farewell.
Keep walking for 5-minutes or so and you’ll reach a fence and beyond that is Pillar Point and Farewell Spit. We were happy to get such a good view of it with very little effort. You can keep walking to Pillar Point Lighthouse and beyond, but the spot pictured below should be good enough for most.
A Short Walk West
Walking up the other side is a bit tougher. Head for the orange pole at the top (one of the highest points on the Puponga Farm Track), and you’ll get incredible views over Wharariki Beach and the coastline leading to Farewell Spit. You’ll be walking up steep, exposed farmland with no real tracks — not one for the faint-hearted!
As you can see the views at Cape Farewell are stunning if you’re willing to put in a little effort — it’s still worth seeing it from the main viewpoint though.
Getting to Cape Farewell
Cape Farewell is in Golden Bay, a 30-minute drive from Collingwood. It’s a good one to combine with a trip to Wharariki Beach. There are heaps of walks in this area, and if you feel like a long, scenic drive you could consider the trip out to Anatori (pictured below).
Sunset at Wharariki Beach
The reason we were late / rushed the first time at Cape Farewell was to see the sunset at Wharariki Beach – and we were happy with the decision. It’s still one of the best sunsets we’ve seen on our travels around the South Island!
Slope Point
Slope Point is at the very southern tip of the South Island. It’s nowhere near as spectacular as Cape Farewell but it’s worth a look if you’re exploring Southland. There’s heaps to see nearby (the Catlins), including some of New Zealand’s best waterfalls and beaches.
READ MORE: 23 of the Best Things to Do in the Catlins
Are you planning around the South Island? Check out our two-week South Island itinerary !
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Cape Farewell
The dramatically rugged landscapes of Cape Farewell have been carved out by the wild western weather, forming an archway in the quartz sandstone cliff that drops vertically into the raging seas below.
As the northernmost point of the South Island, the cape has been subjected to the elements, its rocky headlands shaped almost entirely by the ocean. Cape Farewell is accessible via a short stroll from the nearby Cape Farewell carpark, on a guided tour with Farewell Spit Tours, or when indulging in a scenic coastal adventure along the Puponga Hilltop Track. The Puponga Hilltop Track begins at Triangle Flat carpark, climbing steadily to the historic Pillar Point lighthouse. From here, you’ll traverse vast open farmland and undulating pastures toward Cape Farewell, with the option to continue on to Wharariki Beach if you wish. It can be extremely windy when walking along the hilltops, so it’s recommended you stay a safe distance from the edge of the cliff. How to get there: There is a carpark just a few minutes walk from Cape Farewell along Wharariki Road in Puponga. Photo credit: Farewell Spit Tours.
Wharariki Road 7073 Puponga
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Nelson and Farewell Spit
Choose Your Preference
21/04/2024-15/03/2024
From $3,980 per person
Sunday 21 apr 2024 - friday 26 apr 2024 (6 days), farewell spit is an area of outstanding natural beauty stretching 30 kilometres into the tasman sea. public access is highly restricted so the only way to access this hidden gem is by joining a tour. expect to see stunning panoramic views, sand dunes, the historic lighthouse, fossil point and cape farewell. we also enjoy time in nelson and the abel tasman national park, before travelling to christchurch via the alpine village of hanmer springs..
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Day 1 Sunday 21 April 2024
ARRIVE NELSON (D)
We begin our tour today with a flight from Auckland to Nelson. Located on the shores of Port Nelson, the city is home to a fascinating community of beach, bush, and art Iovers. It is New Zealand’s largest fishing port and one of the country’s sunniest cities. On arrival, we visit the Classic Cars Museum, where we experience a world class collection of classic cars. After our museum visit, we arrive at our accommodation and enjoy a group dinner at the hotel.
Accommodation: The Hotel Nelson – 1 night
Day 2 Monday 22 April 2024
NELSON – ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK – TĀKAKA (BLD)
Nelson’s iconic Eyebright Country Store is our first stop this morning, stocked full of artificial trees, silk flowers, high-quality Manuka honey & other New Zealand made products, there are many treasures to be found. We continue our journey to the nearby picturesque Kaiteriteri, the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, where we will enjoy an afternoon cruise. A picnic lunch is included on the cruise. On show are stunning granite and marble formations, golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear streams that join the ocean. Back on the road, we visit the Pupu Springs and Tākaka where we will stay for the next two nights. We enjoy local dining this evening for dinner at a local restaurant in Tākaka.
Accommodation: Mohua Motel, Tākaka – 2 nights
Day 3 Tuesday 23 April 2024
TĀKAKA – FAREWELL SPIT – TĀKAKA (BLD)
Travelling north to Collingwood, we have an early lunch at local restaurant before we board a 4 Wheel Drive Vehicle for a Farewell Spit Tour on Cape Farewell, the northernmost point of the South Island. Dramatic coastal cliffs are sliced through with fault-lines (vertically walled slashes), streams are strangely running inland rather than to sea and at the base of the Spit, Fossil Point is a popular place for NZ fur seals. Travelling along the ocean beach we stop at the Lighthouse reserve, where we check out the lighthouse and pouwhenua to discover the connection between the local Iwi and Onetahua (Farewell Spit). Enjoy refreshments in the lighthouse keepers’ cottage and soak up some local history. We leave the lighthouse behind to climb a sand dune at Mullet Channel to experience the panoramic views of the ocean beach. It’s a spectacular sight, gazing over the dunes along the centre of the spit and out to the inter-tidal plain. Hear the history of Puponga and New Zealand’s first Radar Station, see where whales strand, and uncover the mystery of the migrant waders. After this exciting Farewell Spit tour, we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 4 Wednesday 24 April 2024
TĀKAKA – HANMER SPRINGS (BD)
As we leave Tākaka this morning we travel via the Upper Moutere Highway to Kawatiri Junction to view the interpretation panels on “The Nelson Rail Network”. Reaching Murchison for lunch (own cost), we visit the Maruia Falls before continuing on our way on the Lewis Pass Road to Hanmer. Hanmer Springs is New Zealand’s premier alpine and spa destination set amongst dramatic vistas of towering forests and mountains. Take the opportunity here to have a swim in the wonderful thermal complex (own cost) or explore the local sights. We enjoy dinner tonight at the hotel.
Accommodation: Hanmer Springs Hotel, Hanmer Springs – 1 night
Day 5 Thursday 25 April 2024
HANMER SPRINGS – CHRISTCHURCH (BD)
Heading south, we journey to Christchurch, where we will enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city. There will also be time available to purchase lunch (own cost). We are taken back in time as we ride on the restored heritage Christchurch Tram travelling through the changing face of Christchurch’s city centre still rebuilding after the destructive earthquake in 2011. We visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, before arriving at our accommodation to enjoy a farewell dinner together at our hotel.
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel, Christchurch – 1 night
Day 6 Friday 26 April 2024
DEPART CHRISTCHURCH (B)
This morning after breakfast at the hotel we are transferred to Christchurch Airport to return to Auckland full of wonderful memories of our enjoyable experiences together.
The Hotel Nelson
Mohua Motel, Tākaka
Hanmer Springs Hotel, Hanmer Springs
Distinction Hotel, Christchurch
Tour Inclusions
- Door to door home collection & drop off service available from select areas – refer to further information available here
- Auckland – Nelson & Christchurch – Auckland return flights with Air New Zealand – other ports on application / price on application
- 5 nights’ accommodation – twin/double rooms, all with private facilities (single rooms available with surcharge)
- Tour admissions as per itinerary
- Touring in modern air-conditioned vehicle
- Breakfasts (B), Lunches (L), Dinners (D) where indicated on your daily itinerary
- Roadside Morning Teas – where possible
- Abel Tasman Half Day Boat Cruise
- Farewell Spit Eco Tour
- Christchurch Tram
- 5x breakfasts, 1x lunch, 5x dinners
Tour Payments Per Person ($NZD)
Balance of tour payment due Friday 01 March 2024
Book and pay in full by Friday 22 December 2023 and receive $125.00 discount per person!
Yes. Leisure Time Tours offers a free home collection and drop off service from selected Hamilton, Tauranga, Rotorua and most Auckland City areas. Our complimentary collections are based on your individual post code, other home collection locations available at an additional cost. Alternatively you may wish to meet us at our Hamilton depot in which case you can park your car in our secure yard free of charge for the duration of your holiday. For all tours that have a flight component, we can also offer door to door collections from Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin city areas.
Please refer to our Home Collection flyer for further information about this service.
Yes. Our Guaranteed Twin Share price is available for those passengers willing to share with another single traveller of the same gender. If there isn’t another passenger of the same gender to share with we GUARANTEE our twin share price. Leisure Times Tours accepts no responsibility for the compatibility of passengers travelling under this arrangement. If someone is not compatible with the person they have been matched up with, all additional costs incurred to assist with changing their shared room type to two single rooms will be at the expense of both travellers and will be subject to availability. Acceptance of a guaranteed twin share room is subject to the individual’s medical condition being suitable for this type of arrangement.
Please note that the guaranteed twin share pricing is not available to pre & post tour accommodation arrangements.
To ensure that you select the right tour for you, we’ve developed a very clear set of fitness recommendations for our tours. These physical ratings clearly explain how much physical exertion is required to participate on each tour.
Level 1 – Easy
- Relaxed paced tour
- Be able to participate in guided or unguided small walking tours at a relaxed pace.
- Walk on mostly level ground
- Tackle an occasional flight of stairs
- Occasionally need to stand for up to 10 minutes
- Able to get on and off transportation unaided
Level 2 – Moderate
- Be able to participate in walking tours with time to rest at least every 10 minutes
- Stand for 15 minutes without needing to sit down
- Tackle a flight of stairs or incline
- Walk confidently on bush tracks
Level 3 – Active
- Participate in walking tours without having to rest for up to 20 minutes
- Walk up an incline equal to a flight of stairs without stopping
- Stand for 30 minutes without needing to sit down
- Walk over uneven ground and walk through soft sand
Yes we can. Should you wish to arrive earlier or stay longer we can book in some pre and post tour accommodation for you. Please ask at the time of booking if you require this.
This tour will be guaranteed once the minimum number of passengers have been booked on the tour.
Passengers rotate seats in the coach daily so that all passengers have the opportunity to enjoy forward and window seating. All passengers are expected to participate as a booking condition.
Yes. A point of difference is that wherever possible we offer our passengers roadside refreshments served from the coach. This gives all passengers the chance to mix and mingle over a hot cuppa allowing us to share our experiences as we journey together.
Leisure Time Tours strongly advises all passengers to purchase a travel insurance policy. A comprehensive travel insurance policy may prevent you from spending extra money in case of an emergency and will help you feel protected during your holiday. We are agents for Cover More Travel Insurance. Ask us for a no obligation insurance quote today.
Luggage is restricted to one suitcase and one small item of hand luggage per person. Baggage handling of one suitcase per person, at each hotel, is included in the trip price. Carry-on/hand luggage handling is the responsibility of each guest and all personal items must be taken off the coach by you each day of the trip.
When on tour, dress is generally relaxed and casual with an informal dress standard on most occasions. Casual wear is recommended for travelling with something a little more formal for evening dining. If taking part in outdoor activities, make sure you have a waterproof coat, comfortable footwear and dress in layers to help you adjust to any sudden changes in climate. Be prepared for New Zealand’s powerful sun, even on cold windy days, bringing a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Booking Terms & Conditions
Terms & Conditions…. Valid from 01 October 2023
Acceptance of Terms and Conditions
If you book a Packaged T our with us and pay your deposit, you are deemed to have accepted these terms. If you book a Leisure Time Travel tour through an agent, the agent is deemed to have accepted these terms on your behalf. We may ask you to sign a copy of these terms when you join your Packaged Tour to provide a record of your acceptance of these terms and you agree to sign these terms on our request.
Itineraries The itinerary for your Packaged Tour was correct at the time of printing but is subject to change without notice. This could come about due to road or weather conditions, or any changes im posed by other tour operators and carriers included in the itinerary. Such changes may occur prior to travel, or whilst on tour. You agree that we have no liability to you for changes to your itinerary. If a passenger amends their itinerary by starting or concluding the itinerary earlier or later, then it becomes their responsibility to arrange tour or flight connections as necessary.
*Guaranteed Twin Share Prices Our Guaranteed Twin Share price is available for those passengers willing to share with another single traveller of the same gender. If there isn’t another passenger of the same gender to share with, we GUARANTEE our twin share price. Leisure Time Travel accepts no responsibility for the compatibility of passengers travelling under this arrangement. If someone is not compatible with the person they have been matched up with, all additional costs incurred to assist with changing their shared room type to two single rooms will be at the expense of both travellers and will be subject to availability. Acceptance of a guaranteed twin share room is subject to the individual’s medical condition being suitable for this type of accommodation arrangement. *NOT applicable to all tours, please refer to the individual tour brochure to confirm whether this arrangement is available.
Travel Insurance Leisure Time Travel strongly advises all passengers to purchase a travel insurance policy when booking a tour. A comprehensive travel insurance policy gives peace of mind for unexpected issues or emergencies that may arise prior to or during a tour. We can assist with a no-obligation insurance quotation – ask us for a quote today, or you may opt to arrange your own travel insurance.
Health and Fitness Passengers should be in good health and able to walk moderate distances to fully participate and experience the sightseeing opportunities within the enclosed itinerary. All passengers are required to acknowledge that they are of reasonable health and are considered to be fit to travel and are not travelling contrary to any medical advice. By acknowledging their health and fitness to participate , passengers are indemnifying us from all actions, claims and demands arising out of any lack of health and fitness. We reserve the right to remove a passenger from a tour if their health or fitness interferes with any other passenger’s experiences or the day to day running of the tour. In this instance our normal cancellation terms and conditions will apply. You agree that we have no liability to you for any loss, damage, costs or other effects of health problems you may encounter on your Packaged Tour.
Travellers Who Require Assistance
It is a requirement of joining your Packaged Tour that you disclose to us at time of booking, any disability requiring special attention . This includes physical disability, difficulty walking, hearing or eyesight impairment, or any neurological disorders . Should your health circumstances change between time of booking and travel date, we require you to disclose if you now have any disability requiring special attention . While every effort is made to accommodate such difficulties, we are not responsible in the event we are unable to do so, and are not responsible for any denial of services by third party operators including airlines, accommodation providers and tour operators . Our concern must always be for the enjoyment and welfare of the group as a whole, and we regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to participants for walking, getting on and off motor coaches or vessels, or other personal needs. A physically and mentally able companion must accompany travellers who need such assistance .
Seat Changes Passengers rotate seats in the coach daily so that all passengers have the opportunity to enjoy forward and window seating. All passengers are expected to participate as a booking condition.
Luggage Luggage is restricted to one item of ‘checked in’ luggage and one smaller item of ‘ underseat ’ or hand luggage per person. Due to limited storage capacity in the motorcoaches used on tour, each ‘check in’ luggage item should have dimensions not exceeding 30” x 20” x 12” (76x51x30cm) and weight not exceeding 50lbs (23kg).
‘ Underseat ’ or hand luggage is restricted to one piece per person, not exceeding 17” x 13” x 8.7” (43x33x22cm). ‘ Underseat ’ or hand luggage handling is the responsibility of each guest and must be taken on and off the motorcoach by you each day of the trip. Although every effort is made to handle guests’ luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. Therefore, it is important for protection that passengers make certain they have adequate travel insurance to cover these eventualities.
Car Parking at Leisure Time Tours Yard
The car parking facility (“Facility”) offered for passengers is provided for the convenience of our patrons only. The use of this Facility is entirely at the risk of the vehicle owner. Leisure Time Tours Ltd (“Company”) shall not be responsible for any loss, theft, damage, or vandalism to vehicles or their contents while parked in the Facility. The Company disclaims all liability for any accidents, injuries, or damages that may occur within the Facility, including, but not limited to, collisions between vehicles, slips, falls, or any other accidents. All vehicles parked in the Facility must be properly insured. Vehicle owners are responsible for ensuring that their insurance covers any damage or loss that may occur while their vehicle is in the Facility. By using the Facility, the vehicle owner or operator agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Company, its employees, agents, and affiliates from any claims, liabilities, losses, costs, or expenses arising out of or in connection with the use of the Facility. The Company reserves the right to refuse entry to or eject any vehicle or individual from the Facility at its discretion. The Company does not guarantee the security or surveillance of the Facility, and patrons are encouraged to take appropriate precautions to safeguard their vehicles and possessions. The terms and conditions of this disclaimer are subject to change without notice.
Price Amendments Prices were correct at the time and date of printing; however, Leisure Time Travel reserves the right to amend the price subject to any changes in price imposed by other tour operators and carriers included in the itinerary or major fluctuation in the exchange rates, or increases in government or other levies. The final tour cost will be guaranteed not to change once the full and final payment has been received.
Exclusions
Tour price excludes airport departure taxes, drinks, telephone calls, gratuities, any passport or visa costs, travel insurance, items of a personal nature, optional sightseeing activities, and costs for variations made outside the group travel arrangements.
Payments, Cancellations and Refunds A non-refundable deposit is required when booking to confirm your place on a tour . Registrations will be accepted in order of receipt of deposits.
All balance payments must be received by Leisure Time Travel prior to the date specified as per itinerary or your booking confirmation. Payments are available to be made by Cash, Direct Credit or EFTPOS – Credit Card payments will incur an additional surcharge. Leisure Time Travel reserves the right to amend , reschedule or cancel the tour due the result of circumstances outside the company’s control. Leisure Time Travel also reserves the right to cancel the tour due to insufficient numbers and in this instance a substitute date will be offered, or a full refund will be made available.
New Zealand Domestic Cancellation Policy Note – These cancellation terms are for standard domestic tours which excludes overnight boat stays If you cancel your booking: · 50+ days prior to tour commencement, loss of the non-refundable deposit · 30 to 49 days prior to tour commencement; your cancellation charge is 50% of the full Package Tour price (50% refund); plus, any applicable supplier cancellation fees · 30 days prior to tour commencement your cancellation charge will be 100% of the full Package Tour price (no refund) No refunds will be given on any unused portions of any itinerary. The exception is when a sightseeing service has been cancelled by the service operator due to weather conditions/safety concerns etc. and only when the operator authorises a refund. Any such refunds will be processed through your travel agent at the conclusion of the tour.
Please Note: Any applicable airline content does not apply to the above refunds – Please refer to your airline for their specific cancellation/refund policies.
Our Responsibilities We are responsible for booking and packaging goods and services provided by other operators such as hotels, attractions, and transportation companies to create your Packaged Tour. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with the terms that will apply to those goods and services. We are not responsible and have no liability to you for the terms of other operators or for any loss, damage, omission or acts, negligent or otherwise, committed by those other operators.
Your Responsibilities You agree to behave reasonably throughout your Packaged Tour and not to be a nuisance to other passengers. You agree to comply with these terms and the terms that apply to any goods or services supplied to you by other operators. You also agree to comply with our reasonable requests and the requests of other operators. You indemnify us for any liability, costs, damages or other expenses we suffer or incur as a direct or indirect consequence of your behaviour while part of your Packaged Tour.
Removal f rom Tour For the wellbeing of all passengers on your Packaged Tour, we reserve the right to remove you from your Packaged Tour and cancel your booking with us if you breach any of your obligations under these terms provided that, except in the case of a serious breach (as determined by us) we will give you notice of the breach and a reasonable opportunity (which will be no more than two days) to remedy the breach before exercising our cancellation right. In the case of a serious breach, we can exclude you from your Packaged Tour and cancel your booking by immediate verbal or written notice to you. In the event of such cancellation, you will be responsible, at your cost, for arranging any accommodation, travel costs and other matters required as a direct or indirect consequence of the cancellation.
Force Majeure You agree that we have no liability to you and will not pay any compensation to you where the performance of our contractual obligations is prevented or affected by circumstances amounting to “force majeure ”. In these terms, ‘force majeure’ means any event that has an impact on your Packaged Tour which we or the other operator (where relevant) could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include war or threat of war, riots, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, pilferage, epidemics, pandemics, forced quarantine, medical or customs regulations, riot, fire, storm, flood, explosion, compliance with any law or government restraint order, rule regulation, strikes, lock outs, or any other cause not reasonably within the control of our control. We reserve the right to cancel, amend or reschedule your Packaged Tour during or following any force majeure and if we do so you agree that we will have no liability to you for any direct or indirect consequences of the cancellation, amendment or rescheduling.
Privacy Act Waiver
Travellers joining our tours automatically give consent for us to pass essential personal information to our suppliers on the tour as necessary . This information may include full name; address; passport number; travel details; contact details; dietary requirements and health information.
Limitation of Liability The Consumer Guarantees Act 1993, the Fair Trading Act 1986, and other statutes in New Zealand may impose warranties, conditions or obligations upon us which cannot by law (or which can only to a limited extent by law) be excluded. We exclude all such imposed warranties, conditions or obligations to the extent permitted by law and exclude any warranty, condition or obligation imposed or implied under common law, equity or otherwise. Except to the extent that the law prevents us from excluding liability and as expressly provided for in these terms, we shall not be liable for any loss or damage or liability of any kind whatsoever (including consequential loss or lost profit or business) whether suffered or incurred by you or another person and whether in contract, or tort (including in negligence), or otherwise and whether such loss or damage arises directly or indirectly from Work or Goods provided by us to you. To the extent that we are liable for any reason for any loss suffered or liability incurred by you arising from any breach of these terms or for any other reason, such liability is limited to the price of your Packaged Tour.
Abel Tasman National Park on a sunny day
Kaiteriteri Beach in Abel Tasman
View from Kaiteriteri Beach in Abel Tasman
Farewell Spit Coastline
Farewell Spit view from the track
Farewell Spit scenery
Farewell Spit Sand Dunes
Avon River, Christchurch City
Avon River running through Hagley Park in Christchurch City
Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre, Christchurch City
Botanic Gardens flower patch, Christchurch City
Bridge in Pupu Springs _ Waikoropupū Springs, Tākaka Golden Bay
Walkway in Pupu Springs _ Te Waikoropupū Springs, Tākaka Golden Bay
Christchurch
Hagley Park, Christchurch
Tram 11 exiting New Regent Street, Christchurch City
Tram at Cathedral Junction, Christchurch City
Classic Cars Museum
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It makes sense that the vehicles used for eco tours, are built to last for quite a while. New Zealand eco tours like this one, need to go off-road and be sturdy. They often go to places with challenging terrain. That is why the bus driver/guides are chosen for their competence in being able to drive off-road. On this journey, they need to be familiar with gravel roads, bumpy hills and long stretches of beach. Another advantage to eco tours is that your Tour Guide will most likely be a local. They are warm and friendly and usually very passionate about the environment they live in. See their website for more details .
1. Departs Collingwood for Farewell Spit Tours Golden Bay
The Farewell Spit Eco Tour bus departs from the small town of Collingwood . Collingwood is well regarded as an ecotourism destination. This is because of its close proximity to the Kahurangi National Park and of course the Farewell Spit Nature Reserve. The bus departs at 11.00am sharp for a very leisurely six-hour drive. Along the way, you will get to see the most beautiful scenery imaginable. However, there will be a number of stops on the way for photos. The road from the Nelson/Tasman region to Golden Bay has no exit, so you’ll be travelling back the same route.
2. Nature & Walks at Farewell Spit Tours Golden Bay
For the next half hour just kick back as the bus meanders past giant Harakeke Flax in full bloom – a sign of a hot summer. Along this stretch of the journey, you will spot beautiful birdlife. On the day we travelled, we spotted two black swans with 6 babies. Have your cameras ready folks! Your first stop will be at Cape Farewell. Everyone will leave the bus to walk about independently for a while. You can either head up the steep part of the hill or down to the viewing platform.
3. Discovering the birdlife
Actually, we could have stayed here for ages to watch the Godwits. These lovely little birds arrive each year from Alaska and Siberia to nest here. You are most certainly guaranteed of coming across Oyster Catchers. These beautiful birds have shiny and sleek black feathers. But the most outstanding feature of Oyster Catchers would have to be their bright red beaks.
Photo by J R Forster
3. Fossil Point at Cape Farewell
After re-boarding the tour bus, you will start the longest and main part of the journey. This means that you will be travelling 29 kms along the beach to an old restored lighthouse. However, before that, you you will stop at Fossil Point. Fossil Point is just one of many interesting rock formations you will see on the Farewell Spit Tours Golden Bay.
4. Wildlife in Golden Bay – Seals
Most nature tours like this one, involve following certain guidelines – especially as they relate to the wildlife. Yes, you will get to see Fur Seals and you might even come across a Leopard Seal! But remember, do avoid getting between a Fur Seal and the sea! These guys do need a direct escape route to the sea – just in case they need to get away quickly.
5. Lighthouse Reserve at Farewell Spit
The Farewell Spit Eco Tour Company has a concession to go past the 4km mark. This is where the public access ends. Believe me, that’s a good thing. The wildlife and the pristine environment they live in, need to be protected. Also, bear in mind that this area does have the occasional sandstorm. When this happens, it is very easy for we humans to become dehydrated and disoriented. Hence one of the reasons why access is only given to guided tours. After the 4km mark, the bus will journey all the way to the Lighthouse Reserve. The actual lighthouse is the only one in New Zealand with a latticed framework.
You will be given a chance to really stretch your legs and walk around independently. Refreshments are served, after which the journey back will begin. On the day we went, our bus passed a fur seal and her new pup. Of course there was a mad scramble for photos. However, our driver guide wisely took a much wider berth with the bus – leaving mum and pup in peace.
6. Sand Dunes at Mullet Channel
If you have an eye for art, you will really appreciate the texture of the sand dunes at Mullet Channel. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the intertidal plain. But for the kid in all of us, here is your chance to roll yourself right down to the bottom. You must do this – its awesome fun!
Photo by Farewell Spit Eco Tours
At the end of the day, it is so satisfying knowing that your footprints will soon be erased by the wind. No footprints left behind dear traveller. Overall this excursion into the more remoter parts of the South Island will take a bit of effort and time, but it’s so well worth it. There are accommodation options in the Golden Bay, which we need to go into more details with another blog.
Here are some more helpful travel planning blogs for New Zealand:
- Best way to plan a holiday to New Zealand
- When is the best time to travel New Zealand
- Clothing for travelling New Zealand
- Other travel hints for New Zealand
Happy Eco Travelling Farewell Spit and the Golden Bay!
2 responses to “Farewell Spit Tours Golden Bay”
Thanks for this wonderful take on your day. Feel like I was there with you. Well done for running down the dunes too – good effort! Definitely on my “to do” list to visit sometime.
So appreciate your comments Jan. We’ll be back to do the Gannet tour which takes you pretty much to the end of Farewell Spit. And this time, I really WILL do that ‘roly poly’.
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Claudia Looi
Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations
By Claudia Looi 2 Comments
Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.
Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.
Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.
The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.
Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2
Moscow subways are very clean
To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow. Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.
The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:
1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.
2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.
Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station
Revolution Square Metro Station
3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.
Arbatskaya Metro Station
4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.
Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station
5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.
Kievskaya Metro Station
6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.
Novoslobodskaya metro station
7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.
Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station
8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.
Mayakovskaya station
One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station
9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.
10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.
Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .
Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.
Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.
January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am
An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂
December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm
Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?
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About Me in Short
My name's Arthur Lookyanov, I'm a private tour guide, personal driver and photographer in Moscow, Russia. I work in my business and run my website Moscow-Driver.com from 2002. Read more about me and my services , check out testimonials of my former business and travel clients from all over the World, hit me up on Twitter or other social websites. I hope that you will like my photos as well.
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- Owner: Moscow Guide & Driver
- Date: June 3, 2012 06:12:00 am EDT
- File name: ALP-2012-0603-146-Entering-Moscow-Metro-Station-Komsomolskaya.jpg
- Tags: Russia , Moscow Metro , Komsomolskaya , Moscow Highlights , escalators , Moscow Famous Landmarks , underground palace , Moscow
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Magnificent Interior of Church of St. Constantine and St. Helena
The interior of the not big 17th century church of St. Constantine and St. Helena in the New Jerusalem Resurrection monastery in Istra is decorated with rich stucco work, small panikadilo (church chandelier) on a long chain and unique copper iconostasis consisted of 24 icons.
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Cape Farewell. Welcome to Farewell Spit Tours. Farewell Spit Nature Reserve is a bird sanctuary and wetland of international importance, being more strictly protected than a national park. Farewell Spit is around 35km long and public access is restricted to the first 4km. Vehicle access is only allowed for supervised tours by concession holders.
Farewell Spit Tour. Most people choose our signature Farewell Spit Tour which, as well as exploring the spit, stops in Puponga and at the most northern point on the South island, Cape Farewell. From the cliff tops, seals and their pups can be seen all year basking on the rocks below. Read more. This tour includes: Sand dunes & panoramic views ...
Cape Farewell is the northern-most point of the South Island, sitting roughly in line with Foxton in the North Island. Menu. Home About Us ... Farewell Spit Tours 6 Tasman Street Collingwood, Golden Bay, New Zealand. Phone: +64 3 524 8257 Call Toll Free: 0800 808 257 E-mail: [email protected].
Farewell Spit Eco Tours began in 1946 as the mail delivery to the lighthouse keepers on Farewell spit. Farewell Spit is a nature reserve and bird sanctuary. ... Very pricey at $165, especially considering cape farewell and fossil point were accessible and free for anyone. Hint, if you can, avoid the back seat of the big bus. The smaller ...
How to Visit Without a Tour . If you don't want to join a tour but still want to experience something of the spit, independent visitors are permitted on the first 2.5 miles of the spit and at the Puponga Farm Park. Cape Farewell and Wharariki Beach can be reached from the parking lot at Puponga, so are easy for independent visitors to get to.
The best way to experience the entire length of the spit is on a 4WD safari. You'll find tour operators in nearby Collingwood, and it is worth choosing a tour that incorporates a visit to Cape Farewell, the northernmost point of the South Island. If you're lucky, you may even see some seal pups basking in the sun below.
Come with us to a special place, where you can view the historic Lighthouse and explore its reserve. Our most popular tour is our Farewell Spit Eco tour which departs from Collingwood and visits Cape Farewell, the South Island's most northern point and includes our lighthouse tour. www.farewellspit.com. Product/Service Type: Eco Tourism ...
Farewell Spit Eco Tours began in 1946 as the mail delivery to the lighthouse keepers on Farewell spit. Farewell Spit is a nature reserve and bird sanctuary. Summer home to wading birds from the Arctic and also a growing Gannet colony near the end. Our hand picked local guides love to share their knowledge with people from all over the world ...
Farewell Spit Tour. Available From. Tue 27th Feb 2024. Wed 28th Feb 2024. Thu 29th Feb 2024. 2:30pm. Closed.
Cape Farewell is the northernmost point of the South Island, and the dramatically sculpted quartz sandstone cliffs that plummet vertically into the wild waters below can be observed from a hilltop viewing platform overlooking the bay. ... Photo credit: Farewell Spit Tours. Address. Cape Farewell Wharariki Road 7073 Puponga Phone +6435482304 ...
Getting to Cape Farewell. Cape Farewell is in Golden Bay, a 30-minute drive from Collingwood. It's a good one to combine with a trip to Wharariki Beach. There are heaps of walks in this area, and if you feel like a long, scenic drive you could consider the trip out to Anatori (pictured below).
Cape Farewell is accessible via a short stroll from the nearby Cape Farewell carpark, on a guided tour with Farewell Spit Tours, or when indulging in a scenic coastal adventure along the Puponga Hilltop Track. The Puponga Hilltop Track begins at Triangle Flat carpark, climbing steadily to the historic Pillar Point lighthouse.
Join Farewell Spit Tours on an incredible journey through a nature lover's paradise. Farewell Spit, the longest sand spit in New Zealand at 26km, is an ecological treasure trove just waiting to be discovered. Enjoy the vast array of wildlife and marine life, the historic lighthouse, imposing sand dunes, coastal cliffs and diverse Maori history ...
Farewell Spit is an area of outstanding natural beauty stretching 30 kilometres into the Tasman Sea. Public access is highly restricted so the only way to access this hidden gem is by joining a tour. Expect to see stunning panoramic views, sand dunes, the historic lighthouse, Fossil Point and Cape Farewell. We also enjoy time in Nelson and the Abel Tasman National Park, before travelling to ...
The Farewell Spit Tours Golden Bay start from Collingwood (2 hrs to Nelson). The trip takes leisurely 6 hours through the most beautiful scenery imaginable. ... Fossil Point at Cape Farewell. After re-boarding the tour bus, you will start the longest and main part of the journey. This means that you will be travelling 29 kms along the beach to ...
The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 ...
Foreigner performed their historic farewell tour at the Barbara B. Mann with students from Cypress Lake High School. Pregnant Burmese python caught in Everglades by Python Cowboy and hunting dog Otto
Private and Luxury in Moscow: Check out 17 reviews and photos of Viator's Private Guided Moscow Underground Palaces Metro Tour
Photo #146 taken on June 03, 2012 during Moscow Metro tour with my Dear client from USA, Brandon Pelsmaeker. Next Previous 4 of 10 . About Me in Short. My name's Arthur Lookyanov, I'm a private tour guide, personal driver and photographer in Moscow, Russia. I work in my business and run my website Moscow-Driver.com from 2002.
The Gannet Colony Tour is limited to 20 people per day so it is important to book in advance. Gannets usually choose rocky outcrops as breeding and nesting sites, but the Farewell Spit colony is the only one in New Zealand that is right at sea level, affording excellent views of the parent birds caring for their young.
The Moscow Metro is one of the oldest in the world, as well as one of the most beautiful. As a visitor, it can be tricky to know which stations are must-sees, but this guided tour ensures that you see the best. Also, because it's a private tour, you don't need to feel self-conscious of being in a large tour group getting in commuters' way.
7:30am. 31/07/2024. Wednesday. 8:30am. 70 Years on Farewell Spit. Caring for our environment. Departure times for Farewell Spit Tour, Lighthouse Tour and Wader Watch Tour with Farewell Spit Eco Tours, Collingwood.