Search icon

South Island

Start: Nelson/Motueka
Locations: Nelson, Motueka
Duration: 5 days
Difficulty: 2
Minimum Age: 8

This five-day guided Abel Tasman adventure departs Nelson or Motueka and combines coastal walking, sea kayaking and scenic cruise transfers between Tōtaranui, Awaroa, Torrent Bay and Kaiteriteri. Departures run every Tuesday year-round, with two dedicated exploration days and guided walking and kayaking on the travelling days. It includes four beachfront lodge nights, all meals, transport, luggage support, kayaking equipment and expert guides, and suits active travellers aged 8+ who want a flexible, fully supported experience.

Explore Abel Tasman by Foot, Kayak and Scenic Cruise

Begin with a scenic journey from Nelson or Motueka to Kaiteriteri, then cruise the length of the Abel Tasman coast to Tōtaranui. From here, walk through mature native forest and along secluded beaches towards Awaroa Inlet and Meadowbank Homestead. After two nights at Awaroa, continue on foot over the forested Tonga Saddle to Onetahuti, where a full kayak briefing prepares you for the next stage of the journey through Tonga Island Marine Reserve.

Paddle past hidden inlets and golden beaches towards Bark Bay and Torrent Bay, with the chance to visit the Tonga Island seal colony when conditions allow. After two nights at Torrent Bay, the final day takes you south by kayak via Te Pukatea Bay and the islands of Astrolabe Roadstead to Kaiteriteri. With walking, kayaking and boat services available during the trip, the itinerary can be adapted to suit different interests and energy levels.

Two Beachfront Lodges with Time to Explore

Spend two nights at Meadowbank Homestead beside the Awaroa Inlet and another two at Torrent Bay Lodge, giving you more than somewhere comfortable to sleep between activities. Ensuite rooms, freshly prepared meals and luggage transfers mean you can travel light during the day, while the extra night at each lodge creates time to experience the surrounding landscape without packing up and moving on every morning.

At Awaroa, your flexible day might include exploring the tidal estuary on foot or by kayak, discovering historic sites or simply relaxing on the beach. At Torrent Bay, choose from walks to Falls River, Cleopatra’s Pool, Anchorage and Te Pukatea Bay, explore the estuary by kayak or enjoy an unhurried day at the lodge. Your guide helps shape these days around weather, tides and how active you want to be.

  • All-Inclusive Meals:
    • All meals from lunch on the first day to lunch on the last day
    • Full cooked and continental breakfasts, picnic lunches, and three-course dinners
    • Fresh fruit, hot drinks, water, and snacks throughout the day
  • Comfortable Lodging:
    • All linen (bedding and towels) provided
    • Free WiFi at the lodges
  • Convenient Gear:
    • Waterproof plastic liners for bags
    • 30-litre daypacks available to borrow
    • 40-litre lodge luggage bag to keep
  • Flexibility:
    • Walking and kayaking each day are optional.
    • Travel on any scheduled ferry services, ideal for groups with different interests and abilities.
    • This 5 Day Kayak & Walk runs concurrently with our 5 Day Walk, allowing members of your party to choose different options and meet up at the lodges in the evening.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Itineraries, timetables, and vessel types may be altered.
    • All travel is subject to weather and tides, which may cause delays or cancellations.
  • Kayaking Safety and Flexibility

    • Buoyancy vests provided; swimming ability not essential.
    • Following the guide's instructions ensures safety; in the unlikely event of capsizing, the buoyancy vest keeps you afloat, and the guide will safely rescue you.

PAYMENT

Deposit of NZ$300 per person on booking, with the balance due 90 days before departure

CANCELLATION FEES

  • 90+ days prior to departure - refund* less $300 deposit per person, or change travel date for no additional cost but seasonal rate increases will apply.
  • 89-60 days prior to departure - 50% refund*
  • 59-0 days prior to departure - no refund.
  • After tour commencement - no refund available.

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.

Sign up to our newsletter for special deals & exciting news.