Abel Tasman Track Guided Hike - 5 Day

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Abel Tasman Walk - 5 days Nelson to Nelson

Take five days on the Abel Tasman Track Guided Hike in New Zealand to be as active or relaxed as you wish with three days walking the 38 km Abel Tasman Coast Track and 2 extra days at each of our Beachfront Lodges.

On those extra days you can relax at the Lodge or explore parts of the Abel Tasman park most visitors don't get to see. Your choices include trying enclosed-water kayaking in tranquil lagoons; swimming in protected, crystal clear waters; or kicking back on a golden-sand beach. For the more active, hike inland to see historic sites and pristine mountain streams cascading through native forest.

This is the most relaxing way to experience all the Abel Tasman National Park in New Zealand has to offer, including a scenic cruise along the coastline.

Itinerary

Day 1: Nelson / Motueka to Awaroa via Totaranui

You will be picked up in Nelson (7.30am) or Motueka (8.30am). There is time for some last-minute luggage organisation at our Motueka office. The 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). Alternatively 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. Or 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

Let your guide design your day to as active or relaxed as you wish.
Options include exploring the largest tidal estuary in Abel Tasman National Park on foot or by kayak (tides permitting). You could visit early European and pre-European historical sites; unwind on the beach; or relax and enjoy the comforts of Meadowbank Homestead - Awaroa.

Day 3: Awaroa to Torrent Bay

Today depart Awaroa to walk over the Tonga Saddle to Onetahuti. Relax on the golden sand beach flanked by impressive granite headlands. Visit Tonga Quarry historic site. At midday, stop for lunch at Bark Bay and take time out to relax, explore, swim or sunbathe on the golden sand.

In the afternoon, enjoy a succession of magnificent views of headlands, estuaries and beaches, walking through native forest and crossing the swing bridge at Falls River. Continue on to Torrent Bay Lodge on the beachfront.

Day 4: Explore Torrent Bay

A day of Choices! Let your guide plan an adventurous or relaxing day to suit you. Options include walking 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 Motueka/Nelson

Today walk the well graded final section of Abel Tasman coast track. Rediscover the pristine bays and beaches named by French Explorer, Du'mont Durville in 1827. Stop for lunch at any one of the bays, then walk the last leg to Marahau.

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

Note: The direction of the Guided Walk may be reversed on some departures. If start/finish times do not suit your itinerary, contact us to make alternative arrangements.

Keep in mind that 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 day's departure. This flexibility is perfect for couples or groups that want to visit the park, some preferring to walk, others to take the 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
• Daily Meals include: Breakfast, Morning and Afternoon Tea, 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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