• 2 nights Rutherford Hotel, Nelson
• 5 day guided Abel Tasman Walk
• 2 nights Torrent Bay Lodge, Torrent Bay
• 2 nights Meadowbank Homestead, Awaroa

Day 1:   Nelson

Explore the city of Nelson known for its local arts and craft stores, art galleries and quirky cafes. 

Day 2: Nelson/Motueka to Awaora via Totaranui

Launch departs Kaiteriteri for a leisurely cruise along the National Park coastline. Hot drinks, covered or open deck areas and bathroom facilities on board.

When you arrive at Totaranui, you can relax on the beach or take a walk through the lush, untouched rainforest on the Pukatea Loop (approx 1.5 hours).

We then walk south approximately 2 hours from Totaranui to the fascinating Awaroa estuary, through rainforest with magnificent specimens of Nikau Palm and Rata fringing idyllic sandy coves. Cross the Awaroa estuary and be introduced to its fascinating history.

Freshen up with a hot shower in your ensuite room while your hosts prepare a delicious evening meal. Local beer and wine is available for purchase at our in-house bar.

Spend the night on the beachfront at Meadowbank Homestead Awaroa.

Meals: morning and afternoon tea, lunch, dinner

Day 3: Explore Awaroa

Relax over breakfast as you soak up the magnificent view overlooking the beautiful waters of Abel Tasman’s largest tidal estuary. Let your guide design your day specific to you.  You can be as active or relaxed as you wish.

Options include:

• Explore the largest tidal estuary in Abel Tasman National Park on foot or by kayak (tides permitting)
• Visit early European and pre-European historical sites
• Unwind on the beach
• Relax and enjoy the comforts of Meadowbank Homestead – Awaroa.

 Meals: breakfast, morning and afternoon tea, lunch, dinner

Day 4: Awaroa to Torrent Bay

After breakfast we depart Awaroa to walk over the Tonga Saddle to Onetahuti where we are rewarded with the golden sand beach flanked by impressive granite headlands.

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 like Falls River and Frenchman’s Bay.

Meals: breakfast, morning and afternoon teas, lunch, dinner

Day 5: Explore Torrent Bay

Let your guide plan an adventurous or relaxing day to suit you.

Options include:

• Walk through breathtaking first generation forest, up to the waterfalls on Falls River;
• Canoe in the estuary and visit the peaceful grotto of Cleopatra’s Pool (tides permitting);
• Walk to the protected golden beaches of Anchorage and Te Pukatea and visit historic Maori sites at Pitt Head.

Meals: breakfast, morning and afternoon tea, lunch, dinner

Day 6: Torrent Bay to Kaiteriteri

After a hearty breakfast we prepare to get paddling along the coast, discovering 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.

Our coach meets you at Kaiteriteri to return to Motueka or Nelson

Meals: breakfast, morning and afternoon teas, lunch

Day 7:  Nelson

Enjoy your last day exploring Nelson