Golden Bay is aptly known as "The Heart of the Parks" and is a seductive place which attracts a diverse range of people. Golden Bay was the setting for NZ's first gold rush and is bordered by Kahurangi National Park on the south and west sides and the Abel Tasman National Park on the east.

Kahurangi National Park

Kahurangi (meaning ''treasured possession') is New Zealands second largest national park at 452002 hectares and includes many great tracks including 'Heaphy Track' (one of New Zealand's Great Walks) and also includes the world renown 'Farewell Spit' which spans out to the north.

Abel Tasman National Park

At 22,530 hectares Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand's smallest national park and is located at the top of the South Island. Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, seals, dolphins, sculptured granite cliffs, and world-famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track.