On this immersive kayak and walk combo, you’ll experience both sea and land come alive in the vibrant Marine Reserve section of Abel Tasman National Park.
This tide-tailored adventure maximizes your experience in the park’s crown jewel, ensuring you witness Abel Tasman at its absolute finest.
Feel the ancient mana of Tangaroa, God of the Sea, and feel the presence of Tane Mahuta, God of the Forest as you journey through awe-inspiring landscapes where turquoise waters meet ancient native forests.
Tailored around the tides, this trip is designed to give you the best possible experience on the day—maximising your time in the Marine Reserve and ensuring you see the park at its finest.
We offer two route options based on the tide.
Start Awaroa | Finish Bark Bay
Kayak south from Awaroa with a visit to Shag Harbour—a secluded, otherworldly inlet unlike anywhere else in the park.* Continue along the coastline at the top of the Marine Reserve before landing at Onetahuti Beach. Share a relaxed beachside lunch and stories with your guide, then swap paddles for walking shoes.
Spend the afternoon unguided exploring the Abel Tasman Coast Track between Onetahuti and Bark Bay. This scenic stretch features the historic Tonga Quarry, the tranquil Bark Bay Estuary, and chances to spot the native kākā parrot.
Start Onetahuti/Finish Anchorage
Heading out from Onetahuti via Tonga Island experience the seals frolicking on Tonga Island, Tonga Arches, and tranquil lagoons in the heart of the park. Enjoy lunch at Bark Bay before spending the afternoon walking unguided the Abel Tasman Great Walk Coastal track exploring between Bark Bay and Anchorage. Highlights of this section include the Kaka population, Falls River suspension bridge and the Torrent Bay Lagoon.
All of our trips are supported from our purpose-built kayak base, where you’ll have access to complimentary hot showers, Wi-Fi, secure gear storage and carparking, and client transport services. We provide top-quality soft gear, expertly fitted by our guides, along with top-quality kayaks and equipment tailored for your comfort and safety—so you can focus on enjoying the experience.
On this trip covering the Marine Reserve coastline your professional guide will be with you for around 4 hours sharing stories, local knowledge, and their love for this incredible place – the Abel Tasman. We cater morning tea and lunch designed around your health and energy.
Every trip is unique like each of our clients.
*Start & finish dependent on tide.
8.15am check in. Open 1 Oct - 30 Apr. Excludes Christmas Day. 8am - 7pm.
Bus Transfer from Nelson or Motueka is extra.
Lunch is included. Dietary requirements can be catered for please advise at the time of booking.