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All the Travel Info You Need, All in One Place

Planning a trip to New Zealand? Our Frequently Asked Questions page covers everything from booking tours and transport options to what to pack and when to visit. It’s your go-to guide for clear, reliable answers that help take the stress out of organising your holiday. Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, or with a group, you'll find helpful tips to make your Kiwi adventure run smoothly.

For a comfortable and safe experience, we recommend the following:

Footwear:

  • Supportive sports or hiking shoes
  • Shoes suitable for tidal crossings (must be fixed at the heel)
  • Light shoes or slippers for wearing at the lodges
  • Walking poles are recommended for stability on hills

Clothing:

  • Quick-dry and thermal layers are ideal — avoid cotton
  • Thermal base layer, with extra thermals and socks in cooler months (April–October)
  • Quick-dry shorts and t-shirts for walking and kayaking
  • A warm fleece or wool mid-layer
  • Waterproof jacket with a hood (disposable raincoats available at our office)

Other essentials:

  • Download the Wilsons Abel Tasman App and your trip route before arriving (Google Play, Apple Store)
  • Personal first-aid kit (plasters, blister care, antiseptic)
  • Cellphone for emergencies (reception is limited in some areas)
  • Reusable water bottle (fill at office/lodges)
  • Insect repellent, sunscreen, sunglasses, sunhat, hand sanitiser
  • Swimwear and towel (optional)
  • Phone or camera with charger and memory card
  • Credit card (for WiFi access and in-house bar)
  • Essential personal medications (carry with you daily)

Overnight gear:

  • Casual evening clothes and light footwear
  • Underwear, socks, sleepwear, toiletries
  • Torch/flashlight (in case of rare power outage)
  • Sleep apnoea machines and chargers can be used with lodge electricity

Both southbound and northbound trips offer the same stunning Abel Tasman experience—golden beaches, native forest, and comfortable beachfront lodge stays. The main difference is the direction of travel and the timing of your first day.

Most trips travel southbound, while northbound trips (typically Wednesdays) are scheduled to give you more flexibility with departure dates and group sizes. Northbound trips start earlier on Day 1, departing Nelson at 7:30 am to ensure kayaking guests reach sheltered waters before the afternoon sea breeze picks up. Otherwise, the itinerary, scenery, and level of comfort are the same.

Solo travellers are very welcome. If you're happy to share a room with someone of the same gender, there’s no additional charge.

For those wanting a guaranteed single room, a supplement of 50% on the standard rate applies during the high season. During the shoulder seasons (1–31 October, 20–31 January, and 1–30 April), the single supplement is reduced to 30% above the standard rate.

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