New Zealand

Abel Tasman Kayak & Walk - 3 Days

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Two days sea kayaking the protected southern coastline and one day walking the lush northern Abel Tasman National Park. Includes a scenic cruise along the length of the Abel Tasman coast.

Itinerary

Day 1: Nelson / Motueka to Torrent Bay

This morning you will be picked up at Nelson (7.30am) or Motueka (8.30am). There is time for last-minute luggage organisation at our Motueka office. At Kaiteriteri, your guide will settle you into your kayaks for a full training session. You do not leave the beach until your guide is satisfied you can safely negotiate the coast in your kayak.

Paddling along the coast, you will discover the pristine bays and beaches named by French Explorer, Dumont D'urville in 1827. Cruise the Astrolabe Roadstead, and visit the stunning bays of Te Pukatea and Appletree, or paddle along the coast of Adel Island. You can stop for lunch at any one of the bays, and then continue on to Torrent Bay Lodge at the beachfront.

Day 2: Torrent Bay to Awaroa

This morning leave Torrent Bay for a morning of beach hopping up the coast, taking in points of interest: Falls River, Frenchman's Bay.

At midday, stop for lunch at Bark Bay and take time out to relax, explore, swim or sunbathe on the golden sand. In good weather, visit the Seal Colony on Tonga Island where New Zealand fur seals breed. Spot new-born pups in December and Jaunary. Cruising past Tonga Quarry and the Tonga Arches, your guide will explain the history of this granite area, pointing out some of the features and quarry relics.

Leave your Sea Kayaks at Onetahuti and walk over the Tonga Saddle to Meadowbank Homestead - Awaroa.

Day 3: Awaroa to Nelson / Motueka via Totaranui

You cross the Awaroa estuary, and you will be introduced to its fascinating history. Walk through the northern forests of the park with magnificent specimens of Nikau Palm and Rata. At Totaranui, join our comfortable launch to cruise the coastline, you have just explored by kayak. Hot drinks, covered or open decks and bathroom facilities are available on board.

Our coach meets you to return to Motueka (4.30pm) or Nelson (5.30pm).*

*If start/finish times do not suit your schedule, please contact us to arrange alternative options.

Keep in mind that kayaking or walking each day is optional. You are welcome to travel on any of our scheduled ferry services. Please discuss this option with your guide prior to each days departure.

If you find that sea kayaking is not for you, you have the option of joining the walk group that is walking the kayaking sections of this itinerary. This flexibility is perfect for couples or groups that want to visit the park together but don't all want to kayak, some preferring to walk or boat between lodges.

Please note: The direction of the 3 Day Kayaking & Walk Trip may be reversed on some departures.

Highlights and Inclusions

• Fine food at our lodges and picnic lunches during the day
• Fresh fruit, snacks and hot drinks available throughout the day
• Includes breakfast, morning and afternoon teas, lunch, dinner
• Share twin/double with ensuite accommodation
• All bedding
• Lodge luggage bag, transfer and storage of luggage 
• Use of day pack
• Launch Cruise and any extra Launch / Water Taxi transport on scheduled services
• Track notes and maps
• Scheduled bus transfers from & to Motueka or Nelson
• All technical and safety equipment for kayak trips

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