Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
PADDLING THE ABEL TASMAN
The Abel Tasman Coast Track has long been trampers' territory, but its beauty
makes it seductive spot for sea kayaking, which can be combined with walking and
camping.
A variety of professional outfits are able to float you out on the water, and the
possibilities and permutations for guided or freedom trips are vast. You can kayak
from half a day to three days, camping, or staying in DOC huts, bachs, even a float-
ing backpackers, either fully catered for or self-catering. You can kayak one day,
camp overnight then walk back, or walk further into the park and catch a water taxi
back.
Most operators offer similar trips at similar prices. Marahau is the main base, but
trips also depart from Kaiteriteri. A popular choice if time is tight is to spend a few
hours kayaking in the Tonga Island Marine Reserve, followed by a walk from Tonga
Quarry to Medlands Beach. This will cost around $195 including water taxis. Three-
day trips usually drop you at the northern end of the park, then you paddle back (or
vice versa); they cost from around $620 including food. One-day guided trips are
around $200.
Freedom rentals (double-kayak and equipment hire) are around $70/110 per
person for one/two days; all depart from Marahau with the exception of Golden
Bay Kayaks (
Click here
)
, which is based at Tata Beach in Golden Bay.
Instruction is given to everyone, and most tour companies have a minimum age
of either eight or 14 depending on the trip. None allow solo hires. Camping gear is
usually provided on overnight trips; if you're disappearing into the park for a few
days, most operators provide free car parking.
November to Easter is the busiest time, with December to February the absolute
peak. You can, however, paddle all year round, with winter offering its own rewards.
The weather is surprisingly amenable, the seals are more playful, there's more bird
life and less haze.
Following are the main players in this competitive market (shop around):
Abel Tasman Kayaks
(
03-527 8022, 0800 732 529;
www.abeltasmankayaks.co.nz
;
Main Rd, Marahau)
Kahu Kayaks
(
03-527 8300, 0800 300 101;
www.kahukayaks.co.nz
; cnr Marahau Valley
Rd)
Kaiteriteri Kayaks
(
03-527 8383, 0800 252 925;
www.seakayak.co.nz
;
Kaiteriteri
Beach)
Marahau Sea Kayaks
(
03-527 8176, 0800 529 257;
www.msk.co.nz
;
Abel Tasman
Centre, Franklin St, Marahau)
