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The last section of the Treasured Pathway skirts glorious Golden Bay to the northern tip of the South Island - allow a full day. Takaka is a fascinating mix of eras, well recorded in the museum. Beyond lies the clearest fresh water in the world at stunning Waikoropupu Springs.

Historic Collingwood is the starting point for safaris to the internationally significant bird habitat of Farewell Spit. At the base of the spit numerous walking opportunities reveal the secrets of Puponga Farm Park, including the wildly spectacular Wharariki Beach.

Side trail: Totaranui Drive east from Takaka to Totaranui in Abel Tasman National Park. Along the way is a memorial to Maori and European first contact, and several lovely, safe beaches. Allow a day or two.

Side trail: Aorere From Collingwood head up the Aorere valley to the renowned Heaphy Track, past the Aorere and Kaituna goldfields, a settlers' museum and the Bainham store, a living retail relic. Allow most of a day.

Side trail: Whanganui Turn west beyond Pakawau to the pretty Kaihoka Lakes and the quiet glories of Whanganui Inlet. Allow half a day for a return trip to the trail end at the lookout opposite the inlet mouth.

Farewell Spit - the kiwi's beak as it is sometimes known -
viewed from the air. Low-angled evening light reveals the
succession of parallel dunes, marching ever-eastwards
at the mercy of the wind. (Photo: Andy Dennis)