Whanganui Inlet

• Anatori
• Landmarks & Hotspots

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The Whanganui Inlet (Westhaven) lays south of Farewell Spit, between Golden Bay and the West Coast, and is home to a wildlife and marine reserve like no other.

This beautiful, unspoilt 13km long inlet traces the shore, bordered by the lush coastal forest of the Kahurangi National Park, and is the perfect location if you’re looking for a scenic seaside drive.

The first estuary in New Zealand to be protected as both a marine and wildlife reserve, it is believed that approximately 30 species of marine fish thrive in the estuary, not only for its rich food supply but also as a base for breeding. The marine reserve spans 536 hectares of tidal sandflats, whilst the wildlife reserve stretches over 2112 hectares.

The manawhenua of Ngati Rarua, Ngati Tama and Te Atiawa consider the area sacred for food and livelihood, and evidence of previous Maori occupation remains today.

How to get there: Follow the road from Collingwood to Farewell Spit, turning left just north of Pakawau.

Photo credit: (1) www.nelsontasman.nz, (2-3) Nelson Tasman Air.