The Abel Tasman Guided Kayak & Walk - 3 Day

Azure waters and native forest groves; the best of both.

The ultimate Abel Tasman National Park experience.

Relaxed or adventurous - your choice

The Abel Tasman is renowned for its protected coastline but it is impossible to guarantee the conditions. When sea and weather are calm, sea kayaking is easy and very little skill or strength is required. However, due to the nature of the outdoors, weather can change quickly and it might be necessary at times to paddle against the wind. Qualified guides provide full training and, if their instructions are followed, kayaking is safe and fun. The boat crew provides full back-up if kayaking becomes too difficult through the day. Double kayaks are used for stability, enjoyment and the advantage of having two people sharing the paddling effort.

Please remember that kayaking each day is optional. You are welcome to travel on any of the scheduled launch services or you can join the group walking that section of the track. Please discuss these options with your guide prior to each day's departure.

Expert Guides and Hosts can help you make the most of your day. Have time on your own or share fascinating insights into the cultural and natural history of the area.

Highlights include:

• Share 8 generations of fun, friendly and authentic Kiwi hospitality.
• The indulgence of accommodation in private twin/double room with ensuite bathroom
• Fine food designed by our chef and served by your skilled Lodge Hosts
• In-house bar serving a selection of local beers and wines
• Scenic cruise along the length of the spectacular Abel Tasman coastline
• All modern, top quality kayak gear: buoyancy aid, spray jacket and skirt, dry bags
• No heavy pack to carry. Overnight luggage transferred by boat
• Your expert Guide will help design each day to be as active or relaxed as you wish.
• There will be plenty of time to relax on the beaches or enjoy a swim in azure waters
• View seals in their natural habitat
• Spectacular golden-sand beaches and tranquil lagoons fringed by lush native forest
• Walks along the coastal track, through diverse forest ecosystems

Itinerary

Abel Tasman - 3 Day 2 Night Kayak/Walk

• **Pick up Nelson (10.30 - 11.00 am) or Motueka (11.40 am) or if you are self driving meet at our office by 11.45 am. Wednesday pick up will be earlier. Please Contact Us for details.
• Meet your guide at our Motueka office for a tour briefing with time for last-minute luggage organisation before departing to Kaiteriteri by coach.
• pm: Vista Cruise departs Kaiteriteri for a fast, safe, comfortable cruise along the National Park coastline. Hot & cold drinks, open and enclosed viewing decks and bathroom facilities on board.
• When you arrive at Totaranui, you can relax on the beach or take a walk through the picturesque rainforest of Te Pukatea Loop.
• Walk south approximately 2 hours (5.5 km + tidal crossing) from Totaranui to Meadowbank Homestead - Awaroa, a faithful re-creation of the Wilson family's original home on the finest site in Awaroa Bay.

• Depart Awaroa to walk over the Tonga Saddle to Onetahuti.
• Here, your guide will settle you into your kayaks with full training and safety brief. You do not leave the beach until your guide is satisfied you can safely negotiate the coast in your kayak.
• In good weather, visit the Seal Colony on Tonga Island where New Zealand fur seals breed. Spot new-born pups in December and Jaunary.
• Cruising past Tonga Quarry and the Tonga Arches, your guide will explain the history of this granite area, pointing out some of the features and quarry relics.
• Stop for lunch at Bark Bay. Take time out to explore, swim or relax on the golden sand.
• Continue beach hopping along the coast to our beachfront lodge at Torrent Bay, taking in points of interest: Falls River, Frenchman's Bay.

• Paddling along the coast, discover the pristine bays and beaches named by French Explorer, Dumont D'urville in 1827.
• Cruise the Astrolabe Roadstead, visit the stunning bays of Te Pukatea and Appletree, or paddle along the coast of Adel Island.
• If the wind is with you, your guide will help you hoist a specially designed sail so you can ride the sea breeze.
• Stop for lunch at any one of the bays, then continue on to Kaiteriteri.
• Our coach meets you at Kaiteriteri to return to Motueka (4.30pm) or Nelson (5.30pm).**

Tuatara Tours In Association with

*All photographs associated with our Abel Tasman Tours are credited to Wilsons.