Beaches in Tasman

Keep your distance from other people

Practicing social distancing is still essential. Only go to the beach if you are able to keep 6 feet or 2 meters away from others. Follow the instructions provided by your local health authorities. If your community has asked that you remain indoors and away from others, do so. Spending a day in any crowded place is the worst thing we can do for our most vulnerable right now and will counter our efforts to curb the virus’s spread. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Photo by Louise Feige About Tasman, NZ Tasman is situated on the northwestern tip of New Zealand’s South Island. This region is known for its stunning views, diverse landscape, and national parks: Abel Tasman, Nelson Lakes, and Kahurangi. To the west are the Tasman Sea, Matiri Ranges, and the Tasman Mountains. North, Tasman Bay and Golden Bay beckon with shimmering aquamarine waters. East is Nelson, and the south is the Victoria Ranges. Much of this region is mountainous, though landscapes also include coastal beaches, rivers, lakes, orchards, forests, deep limestone, and marble cave systems Coastal beaches are golden and sandy. There are many major rivers in this region, like the Wairoa, Takaka, Aorere, Motueka, and Buller. The region also holds Te Waikoropupu Springs, the biggest cold water springs in the Southern Hemisphere. Swimming Water Quality in Tasman Tasman District Council monitors 7 swimming spots in this region. These sites include 4 coastal beaches and 3 rivers that are monitored from November 1 to February 15 on a weekly basis. In this region, the main issues that threaten water quality are the intensification of agriculture and population growth. Rivers and streams in the region have changed since settlement by Europeans, due to damming, water pumping or diversion, waste discharge, and the introduction of invasive plants. Other issues are agriculture clearing, forestry, and urban development, which causes runoff to enter water bodies. Although Tasman’s streams and rivers have improved in the past half-century, pollution remains a problem. Water Sports and Activities in Tasman Swimming, surfing, kitesurfing, waterskiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet boating are some of the most popular things to do in Tasman’s coastal waters. Fishing is also a favourite activity here, with plentiful salmon, snapper, brown trout, scallops, and mussels to be caught. Inland, rapids make for fantastic whitewater rafting and whitewater kayaking. Kaiteriteri Beach on Tasman Bay is one of Tasman’s most visited beaches, boasting a golden sand beach and opportunities for swimming, waterskiing, kayaking, boating, and camping. On Golden Bay, those who enjoy fishing, swimming, and watersports will find lots to enjoy at Pakawau Beach. Weather in Tasman Tasman is warmest from December to February, with temperatures ranging from 20-22 °C (68-72 °F). The water is warmest during these months as well, reaching 20 °C (68 °F). With a coastline that spans 817 kilometres (508 miles) and 9,000 kilometres (5592 miles) of rivers and streams, there is no shortage of places to take a dip in this beautiful region.