TAKAKA The town of Takaka is the ‘capital’ of the Golden Bay region. This is distinct from the Tasman Bay. Golden Bay includes Farewell Spit and Collingwood. From Motueka, Takaka is only 50 ks but to get there one has to go over the Takaka Hill. This is quite a rise and view from the lookouts on a good day is quite breathtaking. Farming, sawmilling, limestone quarrying and tourism are major local industries. The area around Takaka is mineral-rich, with gold, iron ore, copper, silver and asbestos all found locally, although not all in commercially viable amounts. The area around Takaka Hill is also notable for its cave systems, with New Zealand's deepest vertical shaft, Harwood's Hole located nearby. Also nearby are the Pu Pu Springs which boast one of the clearest waterways in New Zealand. The Museum in Takaka is located in the mains street, and is dependent on volunteer personnel to be open; alas on the Sunday we were in Takaka the museum was closed. Takaka boasts two formidable hotels. The War Memorial has been updated and is located near the RSA. There are a number of churches in Takaka The old picture theatre has been converted to food café that displays movie memorabilia of the 50/60’s  Takaka is lively and art focused township that is a pleasure to visit and spend some time at.