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South Island

Start: Marahau
Locations: 3 See all
Duration: 3 days
Difficulty: 3
Minimum Age: 12

Details

Northern Abel Tasman: Secluded Bays and True Solitude

This is the Abel Tasman at its finest: three days on the water exploring quiet northern coves, hidden lagoons, and the iconic golden beaches that make this place so special. You’ll paddle at a relaxed pace, soaking up the rhythm of the sea and the stories your guide shares along the way. Evenings are spent at peaceful beachside campsites, sleeping under a sky filled with stars and waking to native birdsong.

The journey starts in the seldom‑visited northern section of the park, a place of true solitude and untouched beauty. As you travel south, the coastline opens up to sheltered inlets, sculpted granite and rich marine life, offering new surprises around each headland. By the time you reach the southern section and its chain of picture‑perfect beaches, you’ll be fully in tune with this remarkable coastal wilderness.

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Fully Supported Coastal Camping

You’ll enjoy all the perks of guided travel with the freedom to savour the coastal magic without rushing or carrying heavy gear. Campsites are set up for you, meals are freshly prepared, and premium sleeping gear means comfort at day’s end. Hot showers, secure storage and support at our Mārahau base mean the logistics are sorted from start to finish.

Guides share their knowledge each day, creating a trip that’s both relaxing and deeply connected to the environment. With fresh kai, comfortable camps, and expert support on and off the water, this three‑day classic is a truly memorable way to experience the Abel Tasman. Each trip has its own character, shaped by tides, weather, and the people who join the journey.

INCLUSIONS

  • Double sea kayak, paddle, spray skirt, paddle jacket, and buoyancy vest
  • 30L dry bag for personal items, plus additional dry bags for cameras
  • Two-person tent and Thermarest inflatable mattress
  • Sleeping bag (provided on request)
  • Plates, cutlery, cups, and gas cookers
  • Filtered drinking water
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks)
  • Accommodation at scenic beachside campsites
  • Knowledgeable, friendly Abel Tasman Kayaks guide throughout the trip
  • Free social-ready images and video

TOUR INFORMATION

  • Check-in time: 8:15 am
  • Paddling time: Approximately 4 – 5 hours per day interspersed with breaks. No prior experience required
  • Walking Time: Yes – optional short bush walks
  • Nelson and Motueka Transfers available at an extra cost

AGE INFORMATION

  • Minimum Age: 12 years
  • Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult on a 1:1 ratio

CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS

  • More than 14 days before departure: 10% admin/cancellation fee, plus any accommodation charges applies**
  • Between 7 and 14 days of departure: 50% refund**
  • Within 7 days 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 accordance with a change in New Zealand legislation, we are now obliged to inform a person seeking to participate in our adventure activity of any serious health and safety risks they may be exposed to by participating in the activity. We therefore include our Risk Disclosure Statement for you to pass on to your clients prior to them booking, so they are aware of the risks of participation.

Risk Disclosure:

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 (sea sickness, heat stroke, hypothermia, drowning) and Property Damage. 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.

Pack light, but come prepared for changing weather and a night under the stars:

Day Essentials:

  • Personal water bottle
  • Hat, sunscreen, insect repellent
  • Swimwear and towel
  • Warm top (wool or fleece) and windproof jacket
  • Full change of clothes
  • Camera
  • Any necessary medication

Evening & Personal Items:

  • Long pants, t-shirt, warm layer (wool or fleece)
  • Trainers and socks
  • Rainproof jacket
  • Toiletries
  • Torch or headlamp
  • Sleeping bag (optional – can be provided)

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