One of New Zealand’s best-kept secrets is Cable Bay/Rotokura. You’ll feel like you’re in another world as you enter this hidden gem and merge with the rural nature of New Zealand, even though it’s only 20 minutes from the energetic city of Nelson.
1. Cable Bay Walkway
One of the most well-liked activities in the region is the Cable Bay Walkway, which offers breathtaking views of the steep surroundings and rocky coastal seas. Views of Nelson City, Boulder Bank, and the national parks of Kahurangi and Abel Tasman can be seen when hiking.
You are invited to swim in the bay’s colorful waters, and there are areas of the beach where you can unwind for the day. When the tide is low, the local boulders offer some fantastic opportunities for rock pooling, where you can view crabs, starfish, and sea slugs among other fascinating marine life.
2. Horoirangi Marine Reserve
The Horoirangi Marine Reserve, which is close to the bay, is the ideal location for diving or snorkeling. Here, a rough rock landscape lies below the water’s surface, and the reef stretches up to 400 meters in length and 20 meters in depth.
A variety of anemones, shellfish, sea squirts, and sponges can be found in the reefs. Snails, starfish, and crabs continuously circle the boulders. In Horoirangi, ambush starfish are particularly common. Their vivid colors stand out against the muted tones of the rocks they cling to.
3. Marlborough Museum and the Nelson Provincial Museum
The region has a lot to offer if you’re interested in culture. With the cable that served as New Zealand’s sole means of communication with the rest of the world up until 1902, Cable Bay has an interesting history.
The Nelson Provincial Museum and the Marlborough Museum are both excellent places to go to learn more about the area and gain some understanding of what makes the whole area so unique.
4. Cable Bay Adventure Park
The biggest adventure park in the area is located in Cable Bay. The Skywire Experience, one of the world’s longest-flying foxes, will get your heart pumping as you soar through the forest canopy at up to 100 kph while providing breathtaking views of Nelson. Take a 14-kilometer quad bike trip through lovely forest paths or mountain bike on one of the nearby tracks.
5. Cable Bay Shooting Adventures
The only 3D archery range in Nelson can be found at Cable Bay Shooting Adventures, which is down the road. Here, you may go dragon hunting in the forest. Search for legendary creatures concealed between the trunks of enormous trees as you cross shimmering streams and take in the native birds’ music.
6. Peakview Retreat
Only adults are permitted to use the 88-hectare estate at Peakview Retreat, which offers a five-star luxury wilderness escape. With amazing 360-degree views of the surroundings, including the golden sands of Cable Bay, you will feel as if you are on cloud nine as you are nestled in the mountains. While you’re here, relax in a wood-fired hot tub, trek into the French Pass’ secluded environment, or go see a local artist at one of the area’s many galleries.
7. Cable Bay Campsite
Check out the Cable Bay Campsite for a more family-friendly getaway; it provides a variety of powered and unpowered amenities in a tranquil setting just a two-minute stroll from the beach. The resort has a lounge space where you can meet other travelers, as well as restroom and laundry facilities.
8. Pepin Island
Visit Pepin Island for a unique experience that includes stunning vistas and a guided farm tour. Three huts are available for an overnight stay if you’d want a tranquil and romantic getaway at a secluded resort tucked away in the woods.
Cable Bay is the ideal vacation spot all year round because of its breathtaking beauty, fascinating history, and comfortable microclimate.
