Adrift In Golden Bay
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Adrift In Golden Bay

That view from the bedroom!!
Traveller (165)
Each room faces east and captures the view over the bay and the sunrise
Room & Suite (74)
Pool & Beach (10)

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About

#1 of 4 hotels in Takaka
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Location
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.7 of 5 bubbles
Value
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Service
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Five-star Golden Bay accommodation on the water's edge of sheltered, sandy, private Tukurua beach in the Nelson-Tasman region of New Zealand. Enjoy one of only five luxury, self-contained & serviced, one-bedroom, private Beach Villas. Spread over a hectare of tranquil seaside garden, you can be assured of the ultimate in guest privacy and a peaceful, relaxed and romantic atmosphere. Centrally located between Abel Tasman, and Kahurangi National Parks and Farewell Spit Nature Reserve. This stunning area is well known for its natural beauty, its artisans, interesting cafes, bohemian vibe and varied day walks
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Breakfast in the room
Beach
Canoeing
Adults only
BBQ facilities
Self-serve laundry
Wifi
Complimentary tea
Outdoor dining area
Hiking
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun umbrellas
First aid kit
Umbrella
Room features
Bathrobes
Housekeeping
Seating area
Telephone
Coffee / tea maker
Flatscreen TV
Electric blanket
Whirlpool bathtub
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Dishwasher
Microwave
Refrigerator
Stovetop
Electric kettle
Kitchenware
iPod docking station
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Ocean view
Non-smoking rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Qualmark.
5.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Romantic
Boutique

Reviews
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Detailed Reviews
Karen M wrote a review Feb 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We had the most amazing stay at Adrift and highly recommended.
From the moment we turned into the driveway we knew we had found a very special place.
We came away feeling very relaxed and recharged.
The beach location is great and the lawns and gardens are maintained to a very high standard.
We stayed in a Garden Villa which was immaculate and everything we needed.
The breakfast hampers were delicious and plentiful.
Such a private and calm setting and the team were so friendly.
We will definitely be back.
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Date of stay: February 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Gordon Hampson, Owner at Adrift In Golden Bay
Responded 6 Mar 2024
Thanks for your feedback and posting it on Tripadvisor such an encouragement to the family and the rest of the team who work so hard. We look forward to hosting you again at Adrift In Golden Bay. Gordon
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
erikStillwater_Mn wrote a review Mar 2024
Stillwater, Minnesota
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This was our 3rd return to “Adrift”. We stayed (another) 7 nights and celebrated our 5 week trip at this beautiful property/bay. The cottages are placed for privacy and have a creative design, projecting a practical elegance. The owners/onsite managers are experts at responding to questions and helping you plan your day. There are beautiful trails and other beaches in every direction! We so enjoyed being onsite that we made simple dinners and enjoyed the changing light.
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Date of stay: February 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Pay slightly more for a cottage closer to the sea. But all visitors were very happy with their ...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Gordon Hampson, Owner at Adrift In Golden Bay
Responded 9 Mar 2024
Thanks for taking the time to post such great photos of Adrift and Golden Bay and writing about the things you enjoy about our accommodation it’s a great encouragement to us all. So glad you were able to return and it was a pleasure hosting you both.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
kdowell wrote a review Mar 2024
New York
5.0 of 5 bubbles
If we could have just spent our entire honeymoon here, we would have. Imagine staying in the guest house of your warmest family member. And these family members want you to enjoy every second of the stay. The villas are beautiful and comfy. We had neighbors in other villas but were unaware of them. The view from every window was breathtaking. Breakfast is provided daily through the means of sorcery. When we returned to our abode we would find a basket full of fresh provisions. It wasn't there when we left so, you know, sorcery. The family who owns and operates the Adrift are ever present and so knowledgeable of the area that they are a necessary resource for where to eat and what to do. Oh! You could also spend all your time at the Adrift. Stock up at the grocery, load your fridge and have the most relaxing time possible. Should we return, we will return to Adrift.
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Date of stay: November 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Gordon Hampson, Owner at Adrift In Golden Bay
Responded 9 Mar 2024
It was a pleasure and honour that you spent part of your honeymoon with us and so glad you had such a memorable time. Thanks for taking the time to compose a very creative story of your experience of Adrift. We look forward to meeting you again.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
GaryandLesleyTravel wrote a review Jun 2021
Auckland Central, New Zealand
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The beach front units are positioned as to allow privacy while allowing sea views. Complete with fridge, microwave, cooktop and dishwasher it covers all bases.
The large bed and comfortable furnishings allow you to relax and enjoy as does the spa bath. Being situated 17 km past Takaka and 7 km before Collingwood gives you two service centres to provide food and drinks etc. the infamous Mussel Inn is just 3 km down the road. Each unit has a Bar B Que and kyacks and paddle boards are available for shared use. The wash house is available in the afternoons
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Date of stay: May 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Gordon Hampson, Owner at Adrift In Golden Bay
Responded 9 Dec 2022
Thank you for taking the time to post such a detailed review of our family-run accommodation.   I am sure it will be helpful to other travellers looking for quality accommodation in Golden Bay. 
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Danny D wrote a review Apr 2024
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This place is wonderful. The villas are immaculate, extremely well designed, located on a beautiful grassy lawn right in front of an expensive beach with almost no one around. The landscaping is excellent, very well designed and maintained. It's a family run business. Gordon, Bess and daughter Emily. VERY nice and helpful. Will definitely come back and stay for an extended period. Also, spectacular sunrise directly in front of the property. Star gazing at night. Also, excellent restaurants nearby. Supermarket as well.
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Date of stay: April 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Emily Lolani, General Manager at Adrift In Golden Bay
Responded 12 Dec 2024
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! What an accolade! We're so pleased that you loved your stay and hope to see you again sometime :)
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Louise H wrote a review Oct 2023
Nelson, New Zealand
5.0 of 5 bubbles
A fantastic luxury getaway in Golden Bay. The villas are really well appointed and have everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing stay. The Honeymoon Villa with its own grassed lawn, views out to the water and private beach access was so special. The daily breakfasts were fresh and delicious and the homemade cookies were a really nice touch! Lovely friendly owners who keep the property beautifully maintained. Highly recommend a stay here!!
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Godon Hampson, Owner at Adrift In Golden Bay
Responded 26 Oct 2023
Thank you for recommending Adrift In Golden Bay to other readers of Tripadvisor Reviews and for the feedback on the things that you appreciated about your stay with us. Hope to see you again. Gordon
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sue W wrote a review Feb 2023
Apple Valley, Minnesota, United States
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Our travel agent recommended Adrift and she was not wrong! Its been tastefully updated and has nice views of the ocean in a private setting. Our host, Gordon, was very cordial and helpful. The grounds are beautiful and kept immaculate. We chose the breakfast option and enjoyed having a hamper of our selected foods left in our unit each day for the following morning. We appreciated the opportunity to limit our food waste and save it for composting and paper/cans/glass for recycling. Well done!
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Date of stay: January 2023
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Room Tip: There are 3 units in front facing the beach and 2 behind, in case it matters to you.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Gordon Hampson, Owner at Adrift In Golden Bay
Responded 10 Sept 2023
Glad you were not disappointed and enjoyed your stay with us. We are always working to enhance Adrift and add to what nature has provided. Thank you for taking the time to write such a detailed review. Gordon
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Tony A wrote a review Feb 2020
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Gordon and Bess run about 6 little self-contained ‘villas’ here - and they do it very well. They are attentive and have thought of everything. The accommodation is very well equipped with a properly fitted out kitchen, table, chairs and occasional seating. Outside there are 2 sun-beds and 2 deck chairs plus a very good gas BBQ and a table and 2 chairs for outside eating.
Self service Laundry facilities are available after 5pm.
It’s all very private and comfortable. About half of the rooms front the sea and rest look across garden, all are really quite private. The beach is just a few paces away.
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Date of stay: February 2020Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Gordon Hampson, Owner at Adrift In Golden Bay
Responded 18 Apr 2021
Thanks so much for taking the time to write such a detailed review. We hope to see you again sometime!
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Brent N wrote a review Jan 2025
5.0 of 5 bubbles
My partner and I have traveled the South Island extensively and this is the first time the product has exceeded our expectations. This is truely a gem. A family run business run with pride and an excellent eye for detail.
Well done you've set a very high bar
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Date of stay: January 2025Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lara F wrote a review Apr 2021
Upper Hutt, New Zealand
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I was searching on the internet for accommodation in and around Golden Bay and came across the Adrift website. Everything looked amazing, the villas, the location - so we booked four nights in a beachfront villa.

When we arrived our first impression was wow - everything was amazing and looked exactly as we’d seen on the website - if not better. We received a friendly welcome from Gordon and were shown to our beachfront villa.

Everything on the Adrift website explains all you need to know about the villas.

There’s something quite lovely about going to sleep with the sound of waves lapping the beach.

Adrift really is something special, we had such a lovely stay we will definitely come back.
Read more
Date of stay: April 2021
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Gordon Hampson, Owner at Adrift In Golden Bay
Responded 18 Apr 2021
So glad you that your expectations were exceeded after finding us on our Adrift website. We really appreciate you taking the time to write a review and look forward to meeting you again sometime.
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
4acadia asked a question Apr 2016
Boulder, Colorado194 contributions17 helpful votes
Hello! I hoped to find out if kids (I have one 13 year old) are allowed at the property. Thanks!
Answer from Gordon H
Takaka, New Zealand22 contributions4 helpful votes
Hi, Our child policy allows children over 12 years only, so your 13 year old is fine. All of our cottages have one bedroom, but with the addition of a sofa-bed in the lounge, can accommodate up to 3 people. Thanks for your question!
Rezruf asked a question Jan 2015
6 contributions10 helpful votes
How do I get there from Christchurch?
Answer from Emily L
Nelson34 contributions2 helpful votes
Hi Rezruf, thanks for your question. You can fly into Nelson airport, then drive from there (1 hour 45 min drive), or you can drive directly from Christchurch. The most direct route is north to Amberly and through the Lewis Pass to Murchison. Head towards Nelson and watch for the turnoff to Motueka where you can join Highway 60 to Golden Bay. You should allow 7 hours driving time. An alternative route is to travel up the east coast to Kaikora and on to Blenheim. From here you head west to Nelson, Motueka and over the Takaka Hill to Golden Bay.
coastygold wrote a tip Dec 2024
Hope Island, Australia21 contributions2 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The honeymoon villa was very secluded and the entire property felt peaceful private and perfect … an oasis hidden away! "
Read full review
erikStillwater_Mn wrote a tip Mar 2024
Stillwater, Minnesota78 contributions6 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Pay slightly more for a cottage closer to the sea. But all visitors were very happy with their cottages!"
Read full review
Sue W wrote a tip Feb 2023
Apple Valley, Minnesota, United States63 contributions46 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"There are 3 units in front facing the beach and 2 behind, in case it matters to you."
Read full review
Ivan G wrote a tip Mar 2020
Vaucluse, Australia56 contributions43 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Stay in a cottage with an ocean view or the studio, which also views the beach."
Read full review
Maddogmongoose wrote a tip Feb 2020
3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The balcony suites afford a better view"
Read full review
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Takaka area.
PRICE RANGE
$495 - $781 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
adrift in golden bay hotel takaka, adrift in golden bay nelson
LOCATION
New ZealandSouth IslandNelson-Tasman RegionGolden BayTakaka
NUMBER OF ROOMS
6
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect total costs of the stay, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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ADRIFT IN GOLDEN BAY - Updated 2025 Hotel Reviews & Price Comparison (Takaka, New Zealand) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Adrift In Golden Bay
Which popular attractions are close to Adrift In Golden Bay?
Nearby attractions include Hans Bauer Anathoth Pottery (1.7 km), Living Arts Gallery (0.3 km), and THE FLYFISHERS WIFE (6.7 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Adrift In Golden Bay?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free parking, and reduced mobility rooms.
Which room amenities are available at Adrift In Golden Bay?
Top room amenities include a flat screen TV, a refrigerator, and a dishwasher.
What food & drink options are available at Adrift In Golden Bay?
Guests can enjoy barbeque facilities, complimentary tea, and an outdoor dining area during their stay.
Is parking available at Adrift In Golden Bay?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Adrift In Golden Bay?
Conveniently located restaurants include The Courthouse Cafe, Mussel Inn, and Collingwood Tavern.
Does Adrift In Golden Bay have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the ocean view available here.
Is Adrift In Golden Bay accessible?
Yes, it offers reduced mobility rooms. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.
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