Kayaking and Hiking the Abel Tasman Track

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, renowned for its stunning coastal scenery, golden sandy beaches, and lush native forests. I tackled this trail in the end of March 2024 as a side quest while I was hiking the Te Araroa Trail. I chose to take 2 days to kayak and camp along the coast, and two days to hike the trail back to the start. I really enjoyed this adventure as it provided two very different vantage points from which to experience the trail. We went with a rental company, Abel Tasman Kayaks, who took care of the campsite bookings, kayak rental, and transportation to and from the terminus.

Here’s a quick look at hiking and kayaking the Abel Tasman Track:

Overview

- Location: Abel Tasman National Park, at the northern end of New Zealand's South Island.

- Length: Approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles).

- Duration: Typically takes 3-5 days to complete.

- Difficulty: Moderate – the track is well-maintained but involves some elevation changes and tidal crossings.

Highlights

- Golden Beaches: Enjoy pristine beaches such as Anchorage, Torrent Bay, and Bark Bay.

- Crystal-clear Waters: Swim, snorkel, or kayak in the clear waters of the Tasman Bay.

- Native Wildlife: Spot native birds, seals, and even little blue penguins.

- Scenic Views: Experience panoramic views from various lookout points along the track.

- Tidal Crossings: Plan for tidal crossings at Awaroa Inlet and other points – timing is crucial.

Getting There

- Access Points: The track can be accessed from multiple points, with Marahau (south) and Wainui Bay (north) being the primary trailheads. We got a shuttle from Motueka to the southern terminus with Abel Tasman Kayaks.

- Transportation: Shuttle buses and water taxis are available from nearby towns like Motueka, Nelson, and Kaiteriteri.

Accommodation

-Huts and Campsites: The Department of Conservation (DOC) manages several huts and campsites along the track. Booking in advance is essential, especially during peak season (October to April). You must stay at your book sites along the way, as DOC ranger will check your names against the list they have for reservations. All of the campsites and huts have water taps and outhouse toilets. (The water is not always potable according to the posted signs, so bring a filter or prepare to boil it before drinking)

-Lodges: Private lodges and glamping options are also available for those seeking more comfort.

Preparation

-Permits: No permit is required to hike the track, but bookings are necessary for huts and campsites.

-Gear: Bring suitable hiking gear, including sturdy footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, a good backpack, and food supplies for as many days as you plan to be out there.

-Water: Freshwater is available at huts and campsites, but it’s recommended to carry a water purification method such as a filter or tablets.

- Safety: Check the weather forecast and tidal information before starting. Mobile coverage is limited, so consider carrying a personal locator beacon and either have maps downloaded or carry paper copies.

Activities

- Kayaking: Combine hiking with sea kayaking for a unique perspective of the coastline. This is what we did and had an absolute blast!

-Snorkeling and Swimming: Explore the marine life in the clear waters of the bays.

-Wildlife Watching: Look for fur seals at Tonga Island Marine Reserve and other wildlife along the track.

Tips

-Pack Light: Since you’ll be carrying your gear, pack only essentials to keep your load manageable.

-Plan for Tides: Some parts of the track are tidal, requiring careful planning to cross safely at low tide.

-Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the park. Do not feed or attempt to touch wildlife, even if they give you a cute look.

The Abel Tasman Coast Track offers an unforgettable hiking experience with its blend of coastal beauty, diverse wildlife, and outdoor adventure. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a novice, this track provides an accessible and scenic journey through one of New Zealand's most beloved national parks.

Kayaking & Rentals

As I mentioned, we rented through Abel Tasman Kayaks. They provided a thorough safety demonstration and time to practice a few manoeuvres before helping us pack the kayaks with our gear. When we rented, we opted for the 4 day freedom package. They helped us choose our campsites based on our desired itinerary and booked them for us.

When we booked, we were charged $284 NZD each for a group of 3. The price I’ve included below reflects their most recent prices on their website. This might vary depending on the season, but I did not confirm this.

*It’s important to note that you cannot rent as a single kayaker, you must be with at least one other person. This is for safety.

The Experience– A Trail Vlog

If you’re looking to get a sense of what this adventure was like, take a look at this video I made of the Kayaking portion of the experience!

This was an unforgettable trip and such a unique way to experience the natural wonders of New Zealand.