Golden Bay Air: Flights and Shuttles
About
Golden Bay Air is a family-owned flight, shuttle and rental car service based at Takaka Airport in Golden Bay. It operates scheduled flights connecting Takaka, Wellington, Nelson and Karamea, alongside scenic flights over Farewell Spit, Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Park. The company also runs scheduled shuttle buses to the Heaphy Track and Abel Tasman from Nelson and Takaka, offers rental cars in Takaka, and provides charter flights. It rebranded from Capital Air after relocating to Takaka in 2009.
Reviews
I'd read on the DOC website that walking the Abel Tasman in the off season was a great way to experience it, with less people but still mild weather... Boy! Do they know what they're talking about! 馃槅 I felt like I had the track to myself most of the time and the huts i stayed at were not even close to half full. The weather was perfect for the 3 days i was there and the vibe, tranquil. 馃尀 Booking the shuttle with Golden Bay Air couldn't have been easier! I had Hilary drive me to Marahau from Nelson and Anne drive me back. Both really warm, friendly knowledgeable ladies that added another layer of magic to an already wonderful trip! 猸愶笍猸愶笍猸愶笍猸愶笍猸愶笍 If you're thinking of walking the Abel Tasman Track,, now's definitely the time to do it! 馃檪
Sujata G. 路 May 2026 路 via Google
I definitely recommend those guys! Despite the shoulder season, they are operating and they were incredibly helpful with getting me to and from Abel Tasman. A huge shout out to Anne, the driver who was so lovely 馃槂 Thank you for sharing your knowledge, experiences, and recommendations! I have learned so much about Nelson and its region. It's such an underrated place, I hope it'll get more recognition that it definitely deserves. Thank you! 馃槉
Katarzyna 路 May 2026 路 via Google
Great experience. Attentive pilot. We chatted the whole flight and learned lots about the landscape we were flying over. Definitely recommend!
Callum A. 路 March 2026 路 via Google
We used the transfer service from Wellington to Takaka for the Heaphy and then return from Karamea. Both pilots (Josh and Aio) were friendly and informative. We were transferred to the trail head by Richard even though our flight got in late. The whole thing went off without a hitch and their staff seem genuinely stoked to be flying around Golden Bay. Awesome company - highly recommend
Brenton W. 路 February 2026 路 via Google
Awesome scenic flight with Aaio today. He's very knowledgeable about the area and the flight was very smooth in spite of the breeze. Stunning views of the top of the west coast, farewell spit and able tasman.
Graeme B. 路 January 2026 路 via Google
Services
- Scheduled flights (Wellington, Takaka, Nelson, Karamea)
- Scenic flights (Farewell Spit, Abel Tasman, Kahurangi National Park)
- Shuttle buses to the Heaphy Track and Abel Tasman
- Rental cars in Takaka
- Air charters
- Abel Tasman fly-cruise tours
- Heaphy Track transport for walkers and bikers