The Gazebo Backpakers

This unique, naturist-friendly accommodation is in Takaka, just off the main street! Gazebo Backpackers is now all clothing-optional (not just the backyard). In other words, you can be dressed or go nude - your choice. Many guests find staying here allows them the opportunity to experiment with social nudity, yet not feel pressured to do so.

Any level of dress is acceptable. Just be yourself and respect others.

Accommodation is usually limited to 5-6 people to allow for a relaxed, friendly feel to the place. In addition though, a few tent sites are available in the garden area. Families are welcome but young people need to be over eight years old as the facilities such as the spa and pond could be considered dangerous for unsupervised children.

There is a private room with a comfortable queen size bed, another with a super king size bed and a dorm room with two queen, one double and two single beds (all with fresh linen & towels). For the private rooms a secure lock-up for valuables and keyed security is offered.

 • Private room rates are $55 for two people or $50 for just one person.
 • Dorm beds are $25 for the first night. After that it is $22/night.
 • Tent rates are $14 per person.

(By the way - WWOOFers get a night's stay and the use of all the guest facilities for free, in exchange for two hours work; usually in the garden.)

The private, north-facing backyard and sunbathing deck can cater for those interested in yoga (yoga pads available). There is also an outdoor solar shower, a weight room and free use of a bicycle.

Gazebo's backyard

An imposing mural is a feature of the backyard!

Besides the imposing mural, the backyard features a spa and barbecue, handy to the well-stocked home kitchen which comes not only with free spices and herbs (in season), but also Takaka's spring water from the tap! In the walk-in pantry you can find a variety of teas.

Gazebo's backyard

The kitchen attractions are unparalleled

The hostel is close to a variety of organic food stores and gardens. Each guest gets a plastic bin to store their own food. Although it isn't a 'vegetarian house', vegetarian concerns are accommodated with separate cutting boards, etc.

As well as being just a few minutes walk from Takaka's business area and the Information Centre, The Gazebo Backpackers is also midway between three national parks or reserves - Abel Tasman, Kahurangi and Farewell Spit. Nearby are the attractive beaches of Golden Bay. But it's not just beaches - there are caves, reserves, springs, an artistic environment and unique culture; a truly enchanting area of New Zealand.

Things to Do Naked in Golden Bay

Gazebo's backyard

A dive(?) into Payne's Ford

Guests have spent many a day swimming and jumping off the cliffs by the Takaka River - there's even a Tarzan rope! Clothing-optional beaches run from Wainui Bay to Milnthorpe Park. Paul hangs out with his dog Raichel at Rototai Beach, just 3 km from town.

If you time it right you won't miss the annual Naked Bike Ride. (The owner, Paul, sponsors the local WNBR each March.)

Gazebo's backyard

Some World Naked Bike Ride participants getting ready for the ride to town

You can tramp or hike many of the local tracks au naturel. Or just hang around the Backpackers enjoying the gardens or watching a movie.

The Gazebo Backpackers is at 7 Hiawatha Lane, Takaka, Golden Bay 7110, and open from just December to March.

Email: or phone: 022 307 2640.


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