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South Island

Start: Nelson
Duration: 3 days
Difficulty: 2
Minimum Age: 8

This three-day guided Abel Tasman adventure departs Nelson or Motueka and combines coastal walking, kayaking and scenic transfers between Tōtaranui, Awaroa, Torrent Bay and Kaiteriteri. Departures run on selected days, with around 2.5 hours walking on Day 1, walking and four hours kayaking on Day 2, and 4.5 hours kayaking on Day 3. It includes beachfront lodge stays, meals, transport, luggage support, kayaking equipment and expert guides, and suits active travellers aged 8+.

Explore Abel Tasman by Coast Track and Kayak

Begin with a scenic journey from Nelson or Motueka to Kaiteriteri, then cruise north along the Abel Tasman coast to Tōtaranui. From here, follow your guide through native forest and between secluded beaches to Awaroa Inlet, where Meadowbank Homestead provides a comfortable first night beside the water. The first day is deliberately walking-focused, giving you time to settle into the landscape before the kayaking begins.

Day two brings both sides of Abel Tasman together. Walk from Awaroa to Onetahuti before swapping the track for a double kayak and paddling through Tonga Island Marine Reserve, stopping at Bark Bay on the way to Torrent Bay Lodge. After another beachfront night, the final day is spent kayaking south via Te Pukatea Bay and the islands of Astrolabe Roadstead, including Adele Island, before arriving at Kaiteriteri. With guides, meals, accommodation and luggage taken care of, you can concentrate on exploring rather than managing the logistics.

Relax at Beachfront Lodges Between Adventures

After an active day on the Coast Track, settle into Meadowbank Homestead at Awaroa, where comfortable ensuite accommodation, afternoon refreshments and a three-course dinner await. Set beside the tidal Awaroa Inlet, the lodge gives you the chance to relax in a remote part of Abel Tasman National Park without carrying overnight equipment or preparing your own meals.

Your second night is spent at Torrent Bay Lodge, positioned close to the golden sands of Torrent Bay and perfectly placed for the final day’s paddle south. Enjoy another comfortable room, dinner and breakfast before setting out by kayak towards Te Pukatea Bay, Adele Island and Kaiteriteri. With your luggage transferred between lodges, the overnight stays add comfort to the adventure while allowing you to travel light each day.

Why Choose This Adventure?

  • Experience one of New Zealand’s most stunning national parks.
  • Explore the well-formed tracks with gentle gradients, suitable for most hikers.
  • Convenient access from Nelson makes this an ideal addition to your New Zealand adventure.
  • Paddle through crystal-clear waters, taking in the natural beauty of the coastline.
  • Combine hiking and kayaking for a diverse and exciting outdoor experience.

From May to November, itinerary may be adjusted to maximise the winter sunshine, with two nights' accommodation at Torrent Bay Lodge.

As well as a wonderful holiday experience with skilled, friendly hosts, chefs and boat crew, your trip includes:

  • All meals provided from lunch on the first day to lunch on the last day, featuring innovative wilderness menus sourced from environmentally responsible providers. Enjoy full cooked and continental breakfasts, picnic lunches, and three-course dinners.
  • Fresh fruit, hot drinks, water, and a variety of snack foods available throughout the day.
  • All linen (bedding and towels) provided at the lodges.
  • Waterproof plastic liners for bags.
  • 30-litre daypacks available to borrow.
  • 40-litre lodge luggage bag (47x35x25cm) is yours to keep.
  • Free WiFi at our lodges.

Payments

  • Non-refundable deposit of $300 upon booking
  • Balance payable 100 days before departure

Cancellations and Refunds

  • 100+ days prior to departure - refund less $300 deposit per person
  • 99-60 days prior to departure - 50% refund
  • 59-0 days prior to departure - no refund
  • After tour commencement - no refund

Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

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