Kiwi connections

GETTING THERE:

From LAX, Air New Zealand has connecting service to Nelson, New Zealand. Restricted round-trip fares begin at $923.

From Nelson to Takaka, it’s almost 70 miles, or nearly two hours on the road. Don’t forget to drive on the left.

TELEPHONES:

To call the numbers below from the U.S., dial 011 (international dialing code), 64 (country code for New Zealand), 3 (area code) and the local number.

WHERE TO STAY:

Nearly every farm with a spare room in Golden Bay has a sign out welcoming backpackers.

Sans Souci Inn, 11 Richmond Road, Pohara, Takaka; 525-8663, www.sanssouciinn.co.nz. Gardens and vineyards surround the eco-friendly Mediterranean-style inn across from Pohara Beach. Communal bathroom. The on-site restaurant serves a sumptuous set meal each night for about $18. Doubles from $63.

Anatoki Lodge Motel, 87 Commercial St., Takaka; 525-8047, www.anatokimotels.co.nz. Every spacious suite in the clean, modest motel includes full kitchen facilities. Doubles $70-$89.

WHERE TO EAT:

The Wholemeal Cafe, 60 Commercial St., Takaka; 525-9426, www.virtualbay.co.nz/wholemealcafe/index.htm. Specializes in curries and local salmon, lamb and beef. Entrees $8-$15.

Golden Salami, State Highway 60, Takaka; 525-9385, www.goldensalami.co.nz. Get a nitrite-free, preservative-free half salami (about $8) for a picnic.

Rosy Glow Chocolates, Beach Road, Collingwood; 524-8348, rosyglowchocolate.co.nz. Hand-dipped confections.

Windjammers Café & Bar, Abel Tasman Drive, Pohara; 525-7672, www.thetaste.co.nz/goldenbay.htm. Kiwis crowd the bar here. The cafe serves mussels as big as bananas along with local wines and a variety of beers. Dinners about $18.

WHAT TO DO:

Golden Bay Kayaks, Tennyson Street, Pohara Beach, Takaka 7183; 525-9095, vwww.goldenbaykayaks.co.nz. Has guided paddling or rents sea kayaks so you can explore the uncrowded northern end of Abel Tasman National Park on your own; $40 for a half-day guided tour.

Cape Farewell Horse Treks, McGowan Street, Puponga, Collingwood; 524-8031, vwww.horsetreksnz.com. Rides from $30.

TO LEARN MORE:

Tourism New Zealand, (866) 639-9325, vwww.newzealand.com.

— Marcy Barack