Onetahuti to Awaroa: Boardwalks, Beaches, and the Lodge
From Onetahuti Beach, follow the elevated boardwalk over coastal wetlands – a highlight that offers a completely different perspective of the surrounding environment. After the boardwalk, a climb awaits up to the Tonga Saddle, offering panoramic views back south and a real sense of the journey so far. At the top, stay right at the track split to begin your descent toward Awaroa Beach.
The walk down leads through quiet bush before revealing the serene expanse of Awaroa Inlet. Just before the beach, make time for a well-earned rest at Awaroa Lodge – grab a drink or a bite in the tranquil courtyard setting. It's the perfect finale to a day packed with natural wonders, before heading out to the beach to catch your return water taxi.
Inclusions
- Water taxi transfer from Marahau to Bark Bay
- Water taxi return from Awaroa to Marahau
- Track briefing and map provided at check-in
- Scenic highlights en route including Marahau wetlands, Adele Island, Yellow Point, and Anchorage lookout
- Access to key sites such as Tonga Quarry, Onetahuti Beach, and Awaroa Wetlands
- Visit to Awaroa Lodge (food and drinks at own cost)
- Safety information and risk briefing before departure
- Department of Conservation (DOC) track access included
- Environmental Access Fee which goes directly towards preserving the Abel Tasman National Park.
- Not included: lunch, guide
What to bring
- Please bring personal water bottle
- hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, towel
- swimsuit, warm top (wool or fleece), wind jacket
- walking shoes, cameras and any medication.
Tour information
- Check-in time: 8:15am
- Walking time: Approximately 3 – 4 hours
- Nelson and Motueka Transfers available at an extra cost
Age Information
- Adult: 15 years and above
- Child: 5-14 years
- Infant: 4 and under
- Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult on a 1:1 ratio
Cancellations & Refunds
- More than 48 hours before departure: 10% admin/cancellation fee applies**
- Between 24 and 48 hours of departure: 50% refund**
- Within 24 hours of departure: No refund
- No-shows: Full payment charged, no refunds
Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.
Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*
In any outdoor adventure activity, participants are exposed to variations in weather conditions and therefore there is an element of risk involved. Risks in undertaking this water-based activity include but are not limited to; Personal Injury (seasickness, heat stroke, hypothermia, drowning), Natural Weather Events (Flooding, Fire, Earthquake, Tsunami), and Property Damage (water damage /salt water submersion). Abel Tasman Kayaks mitigate this risk through thorough preparation and adherence to a detailed Risk Identification and Management System. This includes providing you with the necessary information, training and safety equipment to participate in our activities. You are personally responsible for listening to our directions, adhering to our advice, and making responsible decisions to keep yourself safe. Additionally, we reserve the right to modify, alter, or cancel activities at any given time if we feel your safety or the safety of others may be compromised.