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Founded in 2006, Golden Bay Air Limited is a small airline based in Takaka, New Zealand.
The airline operates year-round scheduled passenger flights between Takaka and Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. It also operates scheduled flights to the following destinations in the Golden Bay area: Wellington, Karamea and Nelsoni. As well as scheduled flights, the airline also operates private charter flights and scenic flights across New Zealand.
The airline also has a connecting road shuttle service, making it easy for tourists to travel from Takaka to the Abel Tasman National Park, the Heaphy Track in the Kahurangi National Park. These shuttle services run daily and are Carbon neutral.
Flights to New Zealand’s Golden Bay
The Golden Bay is a hidden and preserved corner of New Zealand. As well as boasting extraordinary natural beauty, the area is rich in history and culture. The national parks attract those looking for a challenging adventure, and the stunning sandy beaches of the region draws in those looking for a secret escape.
Baggage Policy
All passengers can bring 15kgs of baggage. Space inside the cabin is limited to under-seat storage. Other bags will need to be stowed safely by the crew. On flights between Takaka and Wellington, the allowance is 15kg per passenger. If baggage weighs more than the specified weight, excess baggage fees will apply at the airport.
Baggage allowances include all carry-on bags. Small soft bags are preferred. There is no limit to the number of bags that can be carried so long as the combined weight does not exceed the baggage allowance. Each bag should not exceed 70cm in any dimension. Individual bags must not weigh more than 23kg.
Cabin Classes
Standard Seating
The airline operates light aircraft. Space onboard is limited. Depending on the aircraft, the airline provides seating for between 6-8 passengers per flight. Facilities onboard the plane are limited. No on-board W/C is available. However, passengers can enjoy a premium VIP experience during the short flights and experience stunning views of the landscape below.
Check-In
Passengers flying with Golden Bay Air must check-in at the airport as online check-in is not available.
Online Check-in
Online check-in is not currently available. Passengers will need to make their way to the Golden Bay terminal or specified departure gate.
Airport Check-in
Airport check-in closes 20 minutes prior to scheduled departure.
Flights from Wellington: Flights depart from Gate 20, Wellington Airport Domestic Terminal. Subject to change; please refer to your e-ticket.
Flights from Takaka: Flights depart from Golden Bay Air Terminal, Takaka Airport.
Flights from Karamea: Please wait within the Karamea Aerodrome waiting room.
Flights from Karamea: Flights depart from the Golden Bay Air check-in counter, Main Terminal, Nelson Airport.
Destinations that Golden Bay Air flies to
The airline currently operates scheduled flights from Takaka to Wellington and Karamea. The airline also flies from Nelson to Takaka and Karamea.
Takaka ✈︎ Wellington and Karamea
Nelson ✈︎ Takaka and Karamea
Alternatives to Golden Bay Air
The following airlines also operate regional flights within New Zealand. You can also head to our guide to domestic flights within New Zealand for more information.
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Hub Airport
Takaka Aerodrome
The airline is based at Golden Bay Air Terminal, Takaka Airport, a small airport which serves the town of Takaka. Golden Bay Air is the only airline to operate schedule passenger flights to/from the airport. The airline was originally based in Wellington, but moved its base to Takaka in 2009.
Fleet
The airline operates a fleet of the following light aircraft: Gippsland GA8 Airvan, Piper Archer and Piper Seneca. Using its Gippsland GA8 Airvan, the airline can carry a maximum of 8 passengers, or 6 in the Piper Seneca.
Frequent Flyer Programme
The airline offers a loyalty program to reward frequent flyers. Passengers who have booked 10 one-way flights are rewarded with a discount of 6% on all subsequent bookings for themselves, friends and family.