Price

$436NZ pp

Duration

4 Days

Seals, caves, dolphins, rugged coastline, golden sand beaches …they’re out there.

This is a trip where you get to sit back and really take your time.  

As the only company specialising in kayak rentals, enjoy provide a comprehensive safety briefing before heading on your adventure. This covers everything: from packing, kayak technique, weather and planning/modifying the journey, stowage and sea-conditions, map interpretation, to those important emergency procedures.

After a safety briefing you and your kayak  travel North to Onetahuti beach by water taxi. Use your new skills, and information of ‘must see places’ from the briefing and make your way south. Heading for Marahau over four wonderful days with the prevailing sea breeze at your back, the pace is leisurely but packed full of wonder.

Recommended campsites: Night 1 Onetahuti. Night 2 Bark Bay or Mosquito Bay. Night 3: Observation Beach or Te Pukatea Bay. Camp passes included in price which we book on your behalf.

  • Enjoy the luxury of kayaking one way with the sea breeze.
  • Don’t paddle the same coastline twice!
  • Explore the Tonga Island Marine Reserve and its surrounds –  you can go as far as Shag Harbour.
  • Wake up to hear the sea lapping and experience the New Zealand dawn chorus – what a way to start the day!
  • Allow time to rest your paddle and explore by foot some of the coastal track.
  • Seek out those special spots our knowledgeable guides shared at your briefing.
  • Enjoy our purpose built base facilities, which include a hot shower, on your return.

Hut accommodation is available for an additional cost, please contact us to arrange and camping gear can be hired at time of booking if required.

Minimum group size 2 (no solo hires). During May to Sept the seabreeze changes to a South to North pattern, we run this trip in reverse.

Print Itinerary
  • Check-in: 8.15 am
  • Open: 1 Oct – 31 May
  • Age: Minimum age is 14 years old. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult on a 1:1 ratio
  • Includes: Kayak hire, kayak transfer, passenger transfer and camp pass (Abel Tasman Kayaks books on your behalf)
  • Food: Self catered
  • Paddling: Approximately 4 – 5 hours per day interspersed with breaks. No prior experience required
  • Water Taxi: One water taxi cruise
  • Bus: $80 Nelson return, $40 Motueka return operating 1 Oct – 30 Apr. On request outside of these times
  • Base Map

Adele Island Bird Sanctuary

Adele Island / Motuareronui is a predator free sanctuary and home to species such as the South Island Robin/Toutouwai (pictured) and Saddleback/Tieke.

NZ Fur Seal/Kekeno

NZ fur seals Kekeno can be seen at the northern end of the island.

Seal - Abel Tasman Kayaks

Astrolabe

Paddle the sheltered waters of the Astrolabe exploring 12 beautiful beaches, caves, rocky outcrops and islands.

Abel Tasman Kayaks

Anchorage & surrounds

Paddle into the calm waters of Anchorage or drift into Torrent Bay Lagoon on a high tide. Optional short walks can be accessed from Anchorage.

 

Pinnacle Island

Bark Bay & Surrounds

Explore the forest fringed granite coastline and tidal estuaries.

 

Kaka

Kaka New Zealand’s native parrot have been reintroduced to Bark Bay. They are often heard before they are seen, listen out for their call a harsh, repeated, rhythmic “ka-aa”.

Tonga Island

NZ fur seals Kekeno can be seen on Tonga Island, Tonga Island is in the Marine Reserve.

No rental kayaking past this point (shag harbour)

Enjoy the dusk and dawn bird chorus as you contemplate your days camping at various campsites.

Explore the lagoons

Torrent Bay Lagoon, Sandfly Bay, Frenchman Bay & Shag Harbour (marker & image) are all great places to explore on a high tide.

After being dropped by water taxi, enjoy the luxury of kayaking one way with the sea breeze.

Night 1 & 2

Mosquito Bay Campsite (20 sites) (water access only) or Onetahuti Bay Campsite (20 sites).

Night 3

Observation Beach Campsite (6 sites) (water access only) or Te Pukatea Bay Campsite (marker) 


Departure Times

Your trip includes an Environmental Access Fee which goes directly towards preserving the Abel Tasman National Park.

Note the Department of Conservation applies a pricing system that varies depending on residency status.

Risk Disclosure: For an understanding of the potential risks please click here and read before you book.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    8.15am
    Check in and start your kayak rental briefing. The briefing highlights areas of interest in the Abel Tasman National Park, weather forecasts and local conditions, hazards, safety and self rescue.
    10.00am
    On water assessment with guide.
    11.30am
    Water taxi up to Onetahuti.
    Explore the park for the next four days.
    Spend the night at Onetahuti.

  • Day 2

    Spend the night at Onetahuti or Mosquito Bay.

  • Day 3

    Spend the night at Observation Beach or Te Pukatea.

    Day 4

    4.00pm
    Return to Abel Tasman Kayaks’ base.

*Please note this is an estimate of timings base on a 8.15am check-in.

Preparation

Camp pass: Provided at check in.

Kayaking clothes: You’re bound to get wet when kayaking bring some quick drying clothes to paddle in. Shorts, t-shirt (long sleeves are preferable), warm top (wool/fleece), hat, sunglasses and shoes. Don’t forget your swimsuit and a towel!

Campsite clothing: Warm campsite clothing is essential for the evenings. Long pants, t-shirt, long-sleeved shirt, warm top (wool/fleece), trainers and socks, sleeping clothing, rainproof jacket.

Personal items: Such as medication, toiletries, camera (with plenty of film or memory space!), personal drinking bottle, first aid kit, torch, sunscreen and insect repellent.

We provide: Buoyancy vest, spray skirt, paddle jacket, paddle, safety emergency flares, waterproof map, water pump and a spare paddle. Additional items in the winter: wetsuits, wetsuit booties.

Food & water: Be sure to bring enough food for your whole journey, food tips can be found here. We recommend purchasing this before you get to Marahau. Make sure you bring plenty of fresh water with you. Filtered water is available at our base and hut sites, untreated water is available at the campsites.

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4
Breakfast Breakfast Breakfast
Lunch Lunch Lunch Lunch
Dinner  Lunch Dinner
Snacks Snacks Snacks Snacks

Cooking equipment: If you plan to cook a hot meal ensure you bring a cooker and fuel as fires are only permitted in certain parts of the park, at certain times of the year. Pots, pans, utensils, cutlery, plates and cups will also come in handy.

Camping equipment: During the evening it can become quite cool in the park so please make sure you pack a tent, camping mat and a warm sleeping bag.

FAQS

  • Are camp passes included in overnight trips?

    Yes, camp passes are included in the package price for all overnight accommodation. We take care of booking and paying for the campsites on your behalf and provide the passes when you check in.  If you wish to upgrade to stay in hut please contact us separately there will be an additional cost.

  • Can we hire/rent single kayaks?

    No. Due to the safety procedures in place, you cannot hire or rent single kayaks. The exception is if your group size is an odd number where there will be one single kayak provided along with double kayaks. E.g For a group of 3 – 1 x double kayak, and 1 x single kayak, group of 5 – 2 x double kayaks and 1 x single kayak.

  • Environment Access Fee

    Your trip includes an Environmental Access Fee which goes directly towards preserving the Abel Tasman National Park.

    A portion of your ticket price goes directly towards preserving the unique environment you will enjoy on your trip in the Abel Tasman. This includes the compulsory concession fees paid to the Department of Conversation as well as voluntary contributions to local organisations and projects to improve the environment, ecology and access to the National Park.  Fees are adjusted according to your trip, you can see your contribution when you purchase a ticket.

    Find out more on how we are looking after this special place including our commitment to the Mārahau Pledge.

  • What is the minimum age for renting a kayak?

    Rental customers need to be 14+ and anyone under the age of 18 needs to be accompanied by an adult.

  • Is food included?

    All kayak rentals & kayak & walk rentals are self catered (unless you have opted to add lunch for day 1 at time of booking) the trip description provides suggestions of meals. Be sure to bring enough food for your whole journey, food tips can be found here. We recommend purchasing this before you get to Marahau. Make sure you bring plenty of fresh water with you. Filtered water is available at our base and hut sites, untreated water is available at the campsites.  

     

  • If I am on my own can I rent a kayak?

    It’s possible to join a guided trip if you’re a solo traveller. We will pair you with another guest or a guide. No rentals are available to solo kayakers due to safety.

  • Do I need any previous kayaking experience to rent a kayak?

    While past kayaking experience is desirable, a reasonable level of camping and outdoor skills and water confidence is essential. Before you go out on a kayaking trip you are briefed by a qualified sea kayak guide who is very familiar with the park and will provide you with information about places to go, how far you are likely to get in the time you have and information on safety, weather and sea conditions.

  • How much gear/equipment can we store in our kayaks for an overnight trip?

    You can easily fit the equivalent of approximately two large packs full of equipment in the dry storage areas of a double sea kayak. This needs to be put inside large plastic bags to fit into the hatches. Check out our video on tips for packing your kayak.

  • Do you hire camping gear?

    Yes, from gas bottles to a full set of gear. It can be booked online at time of booking or over the phone a full list can be found here. These items are subject to availability.

  • More FAQ’s

    A full list of our FAQ’s can be found here.

Other trips you may like

What our customers say

These reviews are gathered through our independent client survey, designed by Get Smart using their Survey Science approach to track Customer Experience. Reviews with the Get Smart icon are gathered through that feedback tool.

www.getsmartglobal.com/get-smart-verification


Get Smart

our guides zoe and carol were patient and kind- we had two children with us which meant we were slower and a bit more chaotic but the ladies were calm and nice to us.


Krissy

We had a wonderful day on the kayaks. Ed was a fantastic host who provided us with a lot of interesting information about the national park We would definitely recommend this tour


Pascal

Incredible


Henry Tomsett

Prachtige wandeling en fijn om met een kleine groep te kayakken. Abel Tasman is écht supermooi!


Judith

The 3 day freedom kayak was a wonderful way to experience the beauty of Abel Tasman park. We also rented a tent which was great. They make everything easy and the experience was great value.


Kyle Eckart

#ABELTASMANKAYAKS

Raft up your kayaks, take a breather, and soak it all in - the calm, the colours, the coastline.

Sometimes the best way to explore is to pause, appreciate, and let the adventure settle in around you.

📍@abeltasmankayaks | @purenewzealand
.
..
...

#abeltasmankayaks #abeltasman #abeltasmannationalpark #nelsontasmannz #NZMustDo #GreatWalksNZ #airnzshareme #natgeotravel #kayakingnz #seakayaking #seakayakingnz #explorenz #southislandnz

View
Open
Raft up your kayaks, take a breather, and soak it all in - the calm, the colours, the coastline. Sometimes the best way to explore is to pause, appreciate, and let the adventure settle in around you. 📍@abeltasmankayaks | @purenewzealand . .. ... #abeltasmankayaks #abeltasman #abeltasmannationalpark #nelsontasmannz #NZMustDo #GreatWalksNZ #airnzshareme #natgeotravel #kayakingnz #seakayaking #seakayakingnz #explorenz #southislandnz

Gathering for a briefing. Checking the plan, getting set, and getting ready for the excitement of what’s ahead.

View
Open
Gathering for a briefing. Checking the plan, getting set, and getting ready for the excitement of what’s ahead.

Most days out here are sunny and golden ☀️ — but every now and then, the rain rolls through. And honestly? It still makes for an awesome trip. 🌧️🌊

The colours pop, and the adventure vibes crank up a notch. Rain or shine, it’s always a good day to explore the Abel Tasman.

View
Open
Most days out here are sunny and golden ☀️ — but every now and then, the rain rolls through. And honestly? It still makes for an awesome trip. 🌧️🌊 The colours pop, and the adventure vibes crank up a notch. Rain or shine, it’s always a good day to explore the Abel Tasman.

Golden light, calm seas, and a coastline waking up in the most magical way - and a fresh brew makes it even better. ☕💛🌅✨

View
Open
Golden light, calm seas, and a coastline waking up in the most magical way - and a fresh brew makes it even better. ☕💛🌅✨

Happy New Year! ✨ If you’re looking to change it up in 2026, start with an adventure that gets you outside, moving, and inspired.

Swap screens for coastline, deadlines for tide lines, and step into a year where you choose adventure, and the unforgettable. 🌊🌿

Let’s make this the year you explore more.

View
Open
Happy New Year! ✨ If you’re looking to change it up in 2026, start with an adventure that gets you outside, moving, and inspired. Swap screens for coastline, deadlines for tide lines, and step into a year where you choose adventure, and the unforgettable. 🌊🌿 Let’s make this the year you explore more.

Explore the Abel Tasman in all its duality — even from the water. 🌿🌊
Where lush bush drops right down to sea level, and every paddle stroke takes you between two worlds.

📍Abel Tasman National Park

.
..
...

#abeltasmankayaks #abeltasman #abeltasmannationalpark #nelsontasmannz #NZMustDo #GreatWalksNZ #airnzshareme #natgeotravel #kayakingnz #seakayaking #seakayakingnz #explorenz #southislandnz

View
Open
Explore the Abel Tasman in all its duality — even from the water. 🌿🌊 Where lush bush drops right down to sea level, and every paddle stroke takes you between two worlds. 📍Abel Tasman National Park . .. ... #abeltasmankayaks #abeltasman #abeltasmannationalpark #nelsontasmannz #NZMustDo #GreatWalksNZ #airnzshareme #natgeotravel #kayakingnz #seakayaking #seakayakingnz #explorenz #southislandnz

Seasons Greetings from the team at Abel Tasman Kayaks.

View
Open
Seasons Greetings from the team at Abel Tasman Kayaks.

Our Sea Bear kayaks are built for adventure — stable, comfortable, and designed to glide smoothly along the Abel Tasman coastline. 🌊🐻

Perfect for multi-day journeys, they carry everything you need while keeping you steady through changing conditions. Whether you’re crossing open bays or exploring hidden coves, these kayaks are all about confidence and capability on the water.

View
Open
Our Sea Bear kayaks are built for adventure — stable, comfortable, and designed to glide smoothly along the Abel Tasman coastline. 🌊🐻 Perfect for multi-day journeys, they carry everything you need while keeping you steady through changing conditions. Whether you’re crossing open bays or exploring hidden coves, these kayaks are all about confidence and capability on the water.

Kayaking out the inlet with the push of the tide — nature giving you a little tow on the way to your next adventure. 🌊🚣‍♂️✨

View
Open
Kayaking out the inlet with the push of the tide — nature giving you a little tow on the way to your next adventure. 🌊🚣‍♂️✨

Getting ready for another day in paradise ✨

📍Abel Tasman Kayaks

View
Open
Getting ready for another day in paradise ✨ 📍Abel Tasman Kayaks

top
By using Abel Tasman Kayaks, you accept our use of cookies.
OK