Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
8
Getting to/from the Tramp
The major gateway town to the Abel Tasman is Motueka, one hour's drive from Nelson.
From here, it's easy to get to the major entry points of Marahau, the southern gateway, and
Totaranui to the north, accessible by driving over Takaka to Golden Bay. Wainui is the offi-
cial northern trailhead, although it is more common to finish in Totaranui, either skipping
the northernmost section or looping back to Totaranui over Gibbs Hill Track. All gateways
imum four people) from Nelson to Marahau ($35); and from Wainui back to Marahau or
Nelson (both $55).
Unless you wish to retrace your steps, your return transport options from either end are a
long drive over Takaka Hill or, much more easily, a water-taxi service which doubles as a
scenic cruise. There are numerous regular services departing from either Marahau or Kaiter-
iteri up to Totaranui (no services are permitted past that point), stopping off at various bays
in between at Anchorage, Torrent Bay, Medlands Beach, Bark Bay, Tonga Quarry, Onet-
ahuti, Awaroa and Totaranui. One-way prices start from around $33 (Anchorage, Torrent
Bay) and range up to around $46 for Totaranui. These operators are very well versed in tail-
oring options to suit, including kayak/walk packages for those who want to mix things up a
bit. Key operators are
Abel Tasman Aqua Taxi
( 0800 278 282, 03-527 8083;
0800 808 018, 03-527 8176; Abel Tasman Centre, Franklin St, Marahau)
.
The Tramp
Day 1: Marahau to Anchorage
4 HOURS, 11.5KM
The track begins at a turn-off 1km north of Marahau, where there is a car park, information
kiosk and shelter. From here it crosses the Marahau estuary on an all-tidal causeway, climbs
gently to a clearing above Tinline Bay, and then passes Tinline Campsite, one hour (2.5km)
from the car park. Just beyond the campsite a sign marks one end of the
Inland Track
.
