Motueka
Oceania · New Zealand
See also
Nelson
New Zealand41.27°S 173.28°E · 0 m
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Abel Tasman National Park
New Zealand40.83°S 172.90°E · 440 m
Takaka
New Zealand40.85°S 172.80°E
Overview
Motueka serves as the primary gateway to Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks, making it essential for visitors to New Zealand's South Island seeking coastal adventures. The area boasts one of the country's highest annual sunshine-hour indices, attracting holidaymakers to nearby beaches at Kaiteriteri and Marahau.
Languages: English, Māori, New Zealand Sign Language
Why Go
Motueka serves as the primary gateway to Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks, making it essential for visitors to New Zealand's South Island seeking coastal adventures. The area boasts one of the country's highest annual sunshine-hour indices, attracting holidaymakers to nearby beaches at Kaiteriteri and Marahau. The coastline between Motueka and Marahau has been dubbed the 'Riviera of the South Island' for its scenic clifftop homes and gorgeous scenery.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Understand
The surrounding district features orchards growing specialised crops such as hops and boysenberries, with boutique wineries gaining international reputation. The area has extensive limestone cave systems including Harwoods Hole in Takaka Hill, attracting cavers and rock climbers. A unique community, the Riverside Community in nearby Lower Moutere, is New Zealand's oldest cooperative commune founded in the 1940s. Many artists and craftspeople, especially potters and reggae musicians, live in the area.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Eat
Motueka has a supermarket on High Street for self-catering options. The town includes a McDonald's fast food outlet with free Wi-Fi. Cafes, fast food chains, and restaurants line the main street (SH60) alongside gift shops and clothing stores.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Things to Do
Sea kayaking and tramping in Abel Tasman National Park attract thousands of visitors annually. Skydive Abel Tasman offers skydives from 9,000, 13,000, or 16,500 feet with spectacular park views. The Motueka Saltwater Baths is a 1938 saltwater swimming pool with an adjoining park. Riwaka Resurgence features the Riwaka River flowing from a hillside into clear natural pools. Cavers and rock climbers explore limestone cave systems including Harwoods Hole.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Go Next
From Motueka, travellers can head to Abel Tasman National Park for kayaking and tramping, visit Kaiteriteri Beach or Marahau for beach access, or travel to Nelson for further exploration of the region.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Field guide adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0. Text has been adapted and organized for this guide. About our sources.
Places to know
A few starting points from the guide. Check current hours and prices before you go.
- sleep
Equestrian Lodge Motel & Gardens
5-min stroll from the heart of the Motueka township, and an easy walk to the 18-hole golf course. All motel units are open to the beautiful landscaped gardens, complete with a shaded barbecue area and a children's play area.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
New World
supermarket.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- see
Motueka District Museum
Recorded price: free
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Abel Tasman Skydive
Rated within the top 10 greatest skydive operations in the world, Skydive Abel Tasman is guaranteed to give you an exhilarating skydive to remember. Freefall for either 30, 50 or 70 seconds from 9000, 13,000. or 16,500 feet. Take in the spectacular view of the Abel Tasman National Park as you help guide the parachute or just relax and enjoy the ride.
Recorded price: 9,000ft skydive: $249; 13,000ft skydive: $299: 16,500ft skydive: $399
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Motueka Saltwater Baths
Saltwater swimming pool built in 1938 with a park alongside.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Riwaka Resurgence
The Riwaka River flows out of a hillside into clear pools. A special spot.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- buy
The Warehouse
"red shed" department store
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
Before you go
Transport
Motueka lies on State Highway 60, serving as a transit hub for Abel Tasman-bound visitors. Local transport options are limited; rental cars or organised tours are recommended for reaching nearby attractions.
Weather
The Motueka area records some of New Zealand's highest annual sunshine hours, making it attractive for outdoor activities year-round.