Motueka - South Island, New Zealand

Motueka is 47 kilometres northwest of Nelson. It is the gateway to the awesome Abel Tasman National Park. Motueka offers a fine range of accommodation and eating options.

You can also rent hiking gear and make preparations for the hike through Abel Tasman Park. Motueka abounds in orchards and vineyards and it is no surprise that horticulture is the backbone of the Motueka economy.

Motueka was once a thriving port and the Motueka Quay on Tudor Street off the SH60 bears testimony to this. All that remains though is the old jetty and a few storehouses. There is a small Motueka District Museum with a few Maori and European artifacts on display that give an idea of the history of this place.

Motueka Activities

In the mad scramble to get to Abel Tasman National Park, visitors often overlook the delights that Motueka has to offer. Some of the best alpine hiking adventures start from Motueka and are centered around Mt Arthur.

The starting point is Graham Valley Road leading off SH61, south of Motueka. It is a 4 hour climb to the Mt Arthur summit from the base, stopping at Mt Arthur Hut along the way. Mt Lodestone is another summit in the same vicinity.

At the Motueka Airport, 3 kilometres southwest of Motueka, tandem skydiving is a popular activity. The guides are experienced professionals and can give you the adventure of a lifetime. The costs vary depending on the heights jumped from. The scenery is jaw dropping and you get a fantastic idea of the terrain layout.

Adventure horse riding is another favourite pastime of many. Horse treks happen about 40 kms southwest of Motueka on SH61. The trek routes are often challenging with river crossings. There is even a ten-day trek for those cashed up and willing.

Motueka Accommodation

There are decent accommodation and dining options available in Motueka. It is a great place to stay for a couple of days before you leave for the much touted hikes of the Abel Tasman National Park. You can rent camping and hiking gear and bikes at various outlets in Motueka at affordable prices.

LooknbookNZ can arrange your Motueka accommodation and Motueka activities and allow you to enjoy the pristine beauty of this beautiful region.