Adventure brief
Blue Rider Room
Stay at Hack Farm's Blue Rider Room in scenic Tākaka and enjoy direct access to beaches, lakes, and horseback rides. Perfect for travelers seeking comfort mixed with outdoor adventure in Golden Bay.
Located in the heart of Golden Bay, Tākaka, New Zealand, Hack Farm offers a uniquely immersive outdoor stay centered around the Blue Rider Room—an inviting, horse-themed room designed for adventurers and families alike. More than just a place to lay your head, Hack Farm blends rustic charm with an active lifestyle, making it a standout destination in this rugged and beautifully diverse region. Tākaka sits in Tasman District, a gateway to wild coastlines, expansive beaches, and some of New Zealand’s most captivating natural landscapes.
Hack Farm’s 22 Grant Road homestead is perched close enough to the shore to hear the ocean’s pulse but set on grounds where horseback riding, indoor climbing, and lakeside swimming are just steps away. The Blue Rider Room is ideal for visitors wanting to recharge after days filled with hiking, paddling, and riding. The communal spaces amplify the farm’s welcoming vibe: a fully equipped kitchen, a pizza oven for warming up after chilly outdoor excursions, and an outdoor entertainment area perfect for stargazing beneath Golden Bay’s famously clear skies.
Guests have limited Wi-Fi, encouraging genuine connection with the environment and others. Adventure here isn’t confined to the trails. You can follow a dedicated hack-track from the homestead down to the beach or saddle up for guided rides with Hack Farm’s equine team.
This dynamic blend of accommodations with hands-on nature activities makes Hack Farm a rare find in Golden Bay’s outdoor scene—a place where comfort meets authentic rural adventure. Whether you’re after a base to launch day trips across Abel Tasman National Park or want a peaceful retreat with access to lakes, beaches, and horses, Hack Farm’s Blue Rider Room offers a versatile and memorable gateway to New Zealand’s Tasman wilderness.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring sturdy footwearessential
Trails from Hack Farm to nearby beach and lakes can be uneven and muddy after rain.
- 02Limit use of electronicsinfo
Wi-Fi is limited; plan offline activities and downloads to stay connected when needed.
- 03Booking rides in advancewarning
Horseback rides are popular—reserve early to secure your spot during peak seasons.
- 04Respect shared facilitiesinfo
Communal kitchen and bathrooms require a tidy and considerate approach for all guests’ comfort.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Waterproof hiking boots
Protects your feet on varied, potentially wet terrain around the farm and trails.
allEssentialLayered clothing
Adjust for changing conditions, especially cool mornings and evenings.
allEssentialSwimsuit
For lakeside swims or beach dips near the farm.
summer|springHeadlamp or flashlight
Useful during shorter daylight hours and for nighttime walks.
fall|winterLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The hack-track trail to a secluded Golden Bay beach, Lush lakeside spot perfect for quiet reflection and swimming
Local fauna
Native New Zealand birds such as fantails and tui, Occasional seals along nearby coastal areas
Historic heritage
Hack Farm sits on historically rich land near Tākaka, an area known for early Māori settlements and later farming heritage.
Mindful exploration
Hack Farm emphasizes sustainable practices including waste reduction and protecting local native habitats, encouraging guests to tread lightly.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- The outdoor entertainment area overlooking the farm, Hack-track beach access point, Lakeside swimming spots
- Subjects
- Rustic farm buildings, Horses in the paddock, Coastal landscapes
- Best times
- Golden hour, mid-morning, sunset
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is the Blue Rider Room family-friendly?
Yes, the room caters well to families or groups with a comfortable double bed and access to communal facilities.
Can you book horseback rides directly through Hack Farm?
Yes, rides with the farm’s team of horses can be arranged in advance to enhance your stay.
Is Wi-Fi available throughout the property?
Wi-Fi access is limited and mainly suitable for checking plans or social media, not streaming.
Are meals provided at Hack Farm?
There is no meal service, but you can use the fully equipped kitchen and pizza oven to prepare your own food.
What’s the best way to reach Hack Farm?
Most travelers access the farm by car from nearby towns like Tākaka or Nelson.
Is parking available on-site?
Yes, on-site parking is available for guests staying at the Blue Rider Room.