Two and a Half Day Private Abel Tasman Hiking Adventure

The Abel Tasman National Park is the smallest jewel in the crown of New Zealand’s national park network (22,500 hectares) yet it reflects a unique identity among the much larger, more mountainous parks. It encompasses kilometres of idyllic golden sand beaches washed by the tidal flows of Tasman Bay, linked by an easy walking track of exceptional standard, alternating with hidden coves, estuaries and spectacular granite outcrops. Offshore lie numerous islands punctuating the broad sweep of Tasman Bay, providing sanctuary for seabirds, seals and penguins.

Looking down toward the sea from the track while walking, you will see the brilliant blue-green of the water and golden sand set against luxuriant forest and tree fern, with a feeling of being on an island paradise. Looking inland however, the park presents a different profile, with dense forested hills rising steeply to 800 – 1100 metres, drained by rugged watersheds which fall to the coast through deep gorges and impassable waterfalls. The park has an interesting history, with Maori settlement, Dutch and French explorers, before being settled by English settlers in the 1850’s.

Day One
We’ll collect you from the airport or overnight Lodge by luxury vehicle (we’re flexible on timing) and drive to Marahau, visiting any places that might interest you like the WOW museum or a winery. After arriving in Marahau at the bginning of the park, you’ll hike with our guide, to Anchorage Bay (an easy 2 1/2 – 3 hour walk). If you are staying on our 74ft private yacht “Sabatayn” yacht you’ll board at Anchorage before having free time to wander on the beach, and swim. We’ll have earlier transferred your luggage to “Sabatayn”.

We have our own chef onboard to produce “Broccoli Row” cuisine, well known in Nelson since 1992.

If you have taken the deluxe camping option you’ll hike to Watering Cove, a lovely little bay on the Astrlabe Roadstead. Our team will have set up camp for you near the beach (having transferred your luggage by boat) and our chef will have dinner being prepared.

Day Two
After breakfast on the yacht, walk from Anchorage to Bark Bay with our guide for a picnic lunch (About 2 – 2 1/2 hours), before walking from Bark Bay to Awaroa. ( About 3 hours). (Alternatively, sail in the morning and walk from Bark Bay to Awaroa in the afternoon).

Spend the night at Peppers Awaroa Lodge, with a choice of standard or superior rooms.

Day Three
We’ll transfer you out to Marahau by private watertaxi, and our guide then transfer you to Nelson for an onward flight or other accommodation.

Includes private guide, all transfers, Expedition yacht “Sabatayn” (or Deluxe camping), meals, accommodation Awaroa Lodge (at specified level), park fees. It does not include alcohol.

FAQs coming soon