New Zealand

Abel Tasman Kayak & Walk - 5 Day

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Two days sea kayaking the protected southern coastline and one day walking the lush northern Abel Tasman Coast Track with an extra day at each of our Beachfront Lodges to relax or explore parts of the Park most visitors don't get to see. Includes a scenic cruise along the length of the Abel Tasman coast.

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.

Itinerary

Day 1: Nelson/Motueka to Awaora via Totaranui

You will be picked up in Nelson (7.30am) or Motueka (8.30am). There is time for last-minute luggage organisation at our Motueka office. Your launch departs Kaiteriteri for a leisurely cruise along the National Park coastline. Hot drinks, covered or open deck areas and bathroom facilities on board. When you arrive at Totaranui, you can relax on the beach or take a walk through the lush, untouched rainforest on the Pukatea Loop (approx 1.5 hours).

Then walk south approximately 2 hours from Totaranui to the fascinating Awaroa estuary, through rainforest with magnificent specimens of Nikau Palm and Rata fringing idyllic sandy coves. Cross the Awaroa estuary and be introduced to its fascinating history. Spend the night on the beachfront at Meadowbank Homestead - Awaroa.

Day 2: Explore Awaroa

Today explore the largest tidal estuary in Abel Tasman National Park on foot or by kayak (tides permitting). Your guide can plan your day to be as active or relaxing as you wish. You could visit early European and pre-European historical sites; unwind on the beach; or alternatively relax and enjoy the comforts of Meadowbank Homestead - Awaroa.

Day 3: Awaroa to Torrent Bay

This morning depart Awaroa to walk over the Tonga Saddle to Onetahuti. Here, your guide will settle you into your kayaks with full training and safety brief. You do not leave the beach until your guide is satisfied you can safely negotiate the coast in your kayak. 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.

Stop for lunch at Bark Bay. Take time out to explore, swim or relax on the golden sand. Continue beach hopping along the coast to our beachfront lodge at Torrent Bay, taking in points of interest: Falls River, Frenchman's Bay.

Day 4: Explore Torrent Bay

A day of Choices! Let our guides plan an adventurous or relaxing day to suit you.
Options include a walk through breathtaking first generation forest, up to the waterfalls on Falls River. Or you could canoe in the estuary and visit the peaceful grotto of Cleopatra's Pool (tides permitting). Alternatively walk to the protected golden beaches of Anchorage and Te Pukatea and visit historic Maori sites at Pitt Head.

Day 5: Torrent Bay to Kaiteriteri

Approximate times:

Sea Kayak Torrent Bay to Kaiteriteri 4.5 hours (12 kms)

Bus Kaiteriteri to Motueka (20 mins) or Nelson (1.5 hours)

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, visit the stunning bays of Te Pukatea and Appletree, or paddle along the coast of Adel Island. If the wind is with you, your guide will help you hoist a specially designed sail so you can ride the sea breeze. Stop for lunch at any one of the bays, then continue on to Kaiteriteri.

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

Note: The direction of the trip may be reversed on some departures.

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

If you find that kayaking is not for you, there is 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.

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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