A little town that sparkles
If you’ve ever been to Abel Tasman National Park, chances are you’ve driven through Motueka. And, like me, you probably didn’t realise you were making a sizeable mistake. Motueka is one of those provincial uncut gems that’s become a lot more polished in recent years.
There’s The Boot accommodation, a world-class doughnut cafe, saltwater baths, a historic wreck, lively markets, and it’s even home to the highest tandem skydive in New Zealand – you’ll jump out of a plane much higher than Aoraki/Mt Cook.
Here are six reasons you need to include Motueka on your next trip to Nelson.
You need to get in early, however, as The Smoking Barrel is sold out by lunchtime most days.
The Boot, Jester House, is $265 a night.
See jesterhouse.co.nz.
Skydive Abel Tasman’s 20,000-foot (6096-metre) tandem jump is $599, although jumps from lower altitudes are from $279. See skydive.co.nz.
More information:
Motueka is a 30-minute drive from Nelson.
How to get there:
scenic flight, although coming down is much quicker, with an 85-second freefall.
If 6096m seems a little high, there are lower altitudes available at much cheaper rates.
If you prefer staying inside your aircraft, head to the nearby hangar at Nelson Tasman Air. The airline is offering a discounted $99 scenic flight of Abel Tasman.
The Motueka Sunday Market is popular with locals. It’s a blend of craft and farmers’ market.
The stalls range from fruits and vegetables to licorice, fudge, fresh bread, cheese, and you may even find head and body massages. If you’re in town on a Sunday morning, it’s a must-stop.
The Motueka Saltwater Baths date to 1938. The urban legend (or should it be a rural legend) is that the baths were created after swimmers spotted sharks, and wanted somewhere safe to take a dip.
However, that’s never been proven, and the popular pool is often crowded in summer, so you’ll want to get in early.