We all knew that the trip would be special when we needed more coffee and salami on the first day, and our humble guide Roy (or “Lolli” in Australian) announced that we would be getting “better than average” salami after being grilled about the quality. Our 3-day classic was completely brilliant, with excellent company, excellent food, excellent weather, excellent adventures, and better than average salami (which was excellent too). Roy... read moreWe all knew that the trip would be special when we needed more coffee and salami on the first day, and our humble guide Roy (or “Lolli” in Australian) announced that we would be getting “better than average” salami after being grilled about the quality. Our 3-day classic was completely brilliant, with excellent company, excellent food, excellent weather, excellent adventures, and better than average salami (which was excellent too). Roy knew his stuff, and willingly shared his knowledge of all aspects of the history, the aquatic and marine life, the birds, the flora, the geology, and much more.

Shag Harbour was an absolute highlight, though so too was Cleopatras Pool (and the extra climb/canyoning trip beyond), but the entire coastline made it all pretty special, especially with Roy’s inside knowledge of the best places to go. Throughout the journey we were fed exceptionally well, with plenty of tasty food and drink, and the efficient organisation from start to finish reassured us all that we were not only in safe hands, but above average hands. A big shout out to Bal for the first two days (with the larger group), too.

In summary: a very professional adventure with plenty to see and do, and with expert knowledge to add greater value to the whole trip, and which made it very memorable. Highly recommended. read less

Did the 5 day kayak trip, booked very last minute and they were able to accomodate us at short notice. We then flew to NZ pretty much just for this. From then on everything was really well organised by Abel Tasman Kayaks starting with our pickup from Nelson. The awesome kayaking experience was a fascinating journey where we saw some of the best scenery and wildlife New Zealand has to... read moreDid the 5 day kayak trip, booked very last minute and they were able to accomodate us at short notice. We then flew to NZ pretty much just for this. From then on everything was really well organised by Abel Tasman Kayaks starting with our pickup from Nelson. The awesome kayaking experience was a fascinating journey where we saw some of the best scenery and wildlife New Zealand has to offer and had an absolutely fantastic time camping in stunning secluded scenic spots. There was even time to get a bit of hiking done to explore more of the park. The ocean going kayaks are of a high standard and easy to paddle and navigate. Our first one developed a small tear in the side, but the company was super quick in getting a replacement out.

Our amazing guide, Nicole, was very friendly, outgoing, and professional, and really engaged with our small group of 7 who were mostly kiwis. Nicole has an enthusiastically passionate knowledge of the Abel Tasman National Park, including its history, wildlife and nature, and the best spots to see as well as being an amazing host, cook, tour guide and skilled kayaker. Truely couldn’t have asked for a better guide to show us this stunning part of New Zealand. Thanks again Nicole! :)

Our group got along really well together and we really enjoyed our time with them. Everyone did their part to help run the camp, get the kayaks going, and keep the wekas at bay which made for an easy going experience. The catering was excellent with ample food and refreshments. All the camping gear is provided, and is of good quality. We packed way too much of our own stuff, but now know for next time.

Weather was perfect except for the last day where it got a bit rough causing us to capsize, for the only time, just meters away from the finish. However, all part of the fun experience and made the hot shower at the end feel so much better.

Truely one of the most amazing trips we have ever done. Can’t wait to come back! read less

My husband and I did the 2-Day Classic kayaking tour with ATK. It was a tremendous highlight of our trip! We were led by Liana who was a wonderful, knowledgeable and highly skilled facilitator. She was professional and engaging from beginning to end. Her knowledge of the surroundings was very impressive - she could spot animals from very far away and knew loads about each one! There was no shortage... read moreMy husband and I did the 2-Day Classic kayaking tour with ATK. It was a tremendous highlight of our trip! We were led by Liana who was a wonderful, knowledgeable and highly skilled facilitator. She was professional and engaging from beginning to end. Her knowledge of the surroundings was very impressive - she could spot animals from very far away and knew loads about each one! There was no shortage of food or snacks which we greatly enjoyed. The gear was top quality. We're so glad we had this experience and that we chose ATK to take us! read less

I booked the Earth, Sea, and Sky tour. If you want to explore the scenic Abel Tasman national park, Abel Tasman Kayaks is the company to do it with, plus they have various tours! The tour starts off in Torrent Bay (via water taxi) and you walk to Barker Bay (bring hiking shoes) where you'll see various bays, plants, wildlife, and other beautiful scenery. At Barker Bay, they had additional... read moreI booked the Earth, Sea, and Sky tour. If you want to explore the scenic Abel Tasman national park, Abel Tasman Kayaks is the company to do it with, plus they have various tours! The tour starts off in Torrent Bay (via water taxi) and you walk to Barker Bay (bring hiking shoes) where you'll see various bays, plants, wildlife, and other beautiful scenery. At Barker Bay, they had additional lunch when we arrived (met up with another tour group that was doing a full-day custom-guided kayak tour, this may not always be the case). Watch out for the birds they'll dive bomb your food while it's in your hand (one little sneaky bird ran off with my carrot cake). After lunch, they water taxi you to another cove for the guided kayak tour portion. Our group had Georgia and Brody as our tour guides. They gave us history lessons about Abel Tasman (formation etc), māori culture, and various wildlife (and other places to check out on the West Coast). Our group saw seals and we were close enough to Adelle island we could hear other wildlife. Our tour guides surprised our group by transforming our kayaks into one big sail at the end of the trip so we could sail back to the boat ramp. Thanks for the amazing tour of Abel Tasman national park, hospitality, and borrowed backpack, I will certainly book another tour with Abel Tasman Kayaks next time I'm in Nelson. read less

Awesome trip!!! Our guide was very funny, friendly and knowledgeable. We spended 2 days in Abel Tasman and were overhelmed by the beautiful nature. I can only recommend this experience.

Fantastic trip. The perfect combination of professionalism and light hearted spirit.
The route was beautiful with a very knowledgeable guide. Great days exercise in a little piece of paradise.