Nelson & Abel Tasman Te Tau Ihu The Nelson area is known by the Māori as Te Tau Ihu o Te Waka a Maui (prow of the waka/canoe of Maui). From his waka, the demi-god Maui used his magic fish hook to catch and land the North Island (Te Ika a Maui - the fish of Maui).
Kayak, Seals & Walk Half Day Guided Kayak / Walk: Coach or drive to the Kaiteriteri Office by 8.40am to meet your guide.
Beginning with a guided ½ day kayak trip, paddle north exploring
tidal inlets, interesting coves & bush clad islands, stopping on a
golden beach for a short break. Return to Kaiteriteri by 11.30am to
swap kayak for walking shoes. Join the 12.15pm Water Taxi to the
golden sands of Onetahuti, visiting the fascinating seal colony at
Tonga Island on the way. Disembark at 1.30pm and walk 1½ hours to Bark
Bay where you will rejoin the Water Taxi at 3.40pm to return to
Kaiteriteri where your coach or car awaits.
Seals, Bush & Beach Full Day Guided Walk: For the best of everything this trip is for you. Cruise to the golden expanse of Onetahuti beach via the Seal Colony at Tonga Island. Walk 1.5 hours over a forested saddle to the picturesque estuary and calm waters of Bark Bay. Then walk the most varied section of the track, 2 hours to Torrent Bay, with vegetation ranging from dappled sunny regenerating Kanuka forest to dense temperate rainforest, including the Swing Bridge over Falls River. Join the Vigour Water Taxi at 4.00 or 5.00pm from Torrent Bay back to Kaiteriteri or Marahau.
Beaches & Bays Full Day Guided Kayaking: Discover the
beautiful beaches, tidal estuaries and rivers of the most scenic
kayaking area of the park - Anchorage Bay to Bark Bay. Pause at a
sheltered cove for lunch and explore, swim or sunbathe on the golden sand. Snorkeling equipment is
provided for those that want to explore the marine life below the
surface. On your return journey, if the winds are favorable the kayak
sails will be hoisted and you will sail back to Torrent Bay, stopping
at Pinnacle Island to view the seal colony there. You may view Sea birds working the
shoals of fish or resting on the rocky outcrops, and possibily even some of the Blue Penguins that live there. Back at
Torrent Bay Lodge, freshen up with a hot shower and rejoin the boat back, arriving
4.30 pm.
Split Apple Paddle Half Day Guided Kayaking: Report to the Kaiteriteri Ticket Office by 9.30am. Your guide will
introduce you to safe paddling techniques and settle you into a stable
double kayak then, it is onto the water to explore & have fun! A
perfect adventure for families and first time paddlers - paddling
north, this relaxing paddle explores the interesting coves and natural
features of the beautiful Kaiteriteri coastline, including the famous
‘Split Apple Rock’. Stop on a golden beach for a short break before
heading back to Kaiteriteri.
HÖglund Art Glass: Höglund Art Glass – International Glass Centre, set within 7-acres of tranquil gardens, offers a unique experience to glass lovers and those interested in glass art. Home to internationally renowned glass artists Ola Höglund and Marie Simberg-Höglund who welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The main gallery features a stunning selection of masterpieces. Personal, informative and fascinating Guided Tours operate regularly. Browse the selection of skillful work of the local artists in the Glassblowing and Flamework (beadmaking) Studios, learn about the history of glass, what it is made of and about the tools used by the glass artists, from the permanent, educational and historical displays and exhibitions in the Glass Museum.
Nelson Saturday Market: Explore, Experience, Discover! Nelson's Saturday market defies description. Aromas of organic coffee and exotic cuisine fill the air. Experience the original creative spirit of the region in one happening place. Prowl the lanes between the hundreds of stalls for Nelson's best; savour gourmet chutneys, local olive oils and hot smoked salmon. Art and designer wares abound from large wooden platters to scented candles, pottery and handcrafted silver. The Nelson market operates on Saturday and Sunday mornings (8am-1pm)
Best Abel Tasman Day Trip: A scenic cruise today includes a visit to Tonga Island Marine Reserve and seal colony. Further along the Abel Tasman choose to paddle our complimentary sea kayaks in a tranquil lagoon, snorkel, take a bush walk, or just sit back and enjoy the sights and tranquil surroundings of New Zealand's most enchanting national park, all in one day! Our comfortable power catamaran carries kayaks, snorkeling/fishing gear and towels, gourmet lunch, snacks and refreshments are all included. Local beer and wine are available for purchase. This is a relaxed and unhurried day onboard the ‘Taranui’.
Abel Tasman Half-Day Flight: Explore the most scenic areas of the top of the South Island flying from Motueka or Nelson , then into the rugged wilderness of the Kahurangi National Park over the mountains and stunning alpine lakes. Emerge from the mountains onto the northern west coast and a wonderful view of Farewell Spit. From there you'll fly around the coast of Golden Bay to the north of the Abel Tasman National Park. From high up in the sky, you'll be able to admire the white sands of Awaroa and the clear blue waters. Weather permitting, you will stop at Karamea on the West coast and also at Awaroa, in the Abel Tasman. Refreshments are provided.
