Explore the coastal trails and alpine wilderness of NZ's South Island, featuring the Abel Tasman Coast Track and a heli-hike on the iconic Heaphy Track

South Island, New Zealand

From A$10,950 pp

4 Day Private Walk

Abel Tasman Coastal Track

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7 Featured experiences

1Overview

Overview

Discover the coastal charm and alpine beauty of New Zealand’s South Island on this signature four-day journey through the Nelson Tasman region. Begin with a scenic walk along the Abel Tasman Coast Track - one of New Zealand’s Great Walks - hiking from Tonga Quarry to Awaroa Lodge through native forest and golden bays. Spend the night immersed in the heart of Abel Tasman National Park, with time to kayak the tranquil Awaroa Estuary and observe its abundant birdlife. Continue your coastal adventure with a guided walk from Bark Bay to Anchorage, before retreating to the peaceful surrounds of Motueka River Lodge. The journey culminates in a spectacular heli-hike over Kahurangi National Park, featuring an alpine landing and a guided walk along a remote section of the famed Heaphy Track. With premium lodge stays, exceptional dining, and private transfers throughout, this experience beautifully blends adventure, nature, and refined South Island hospitality.

Swing Bridge Abel Tasman Coast Track Wi L

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2Inclusions

What's Included

One night of luxury accommodation at Awaroa Lodge in a Superior Suite
Breakfast and 3-course dinner at Awaroa Lodge
Private guided kayak experience at Awaroa Estuary
Two days walking the best sections of the Abel Tasman Coastal Track with a private guide, with packed lunch
Two nights of luxury accommodation at Motueka River Lodge in a King Suite
Daily breakfast, afternoon canapés and dinner at Motueka River Lodge
Private guided kayak experience at Awaroa Estuary
Full day private heli-hike on the Heaphy Track, with picnic lunch
Private transfer from Motueka River Lodge to Nelson, including stop in Mapua village and tastings at Gravity Winery

3Location

Getting There

This journey begins and concludes in Nelson, New Zealand. Nelson Airport can be reached by direct flight from most major cities in New Zealand.

4Accommodation

Where You'll Sleep

South Island, New Zealand

Awaroa Lodge, Abel Tasman National Park

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South Island, New Zealand

Motueka River Lodge, Nelson, New Zealand

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5Itinerary

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Departing from Nelson, enjoy a scenic one-hour private transfer to Kaiteriteri, where you’ll board a short water taxi to the starting point of your walk at Tonga Quarry. From here, set off on a rewarding three-hour guided hike along the Abel Tasman Coast Track, winding through native forest and past secluded bays. Your walk concludes at the tranquil Awaroa Lodge, a peaceful retreat nestled in the heart of the national park, where you’ll spend the night. Settle in and enjoy a three-course dinner at Harakeke Restaurant.

Included: L - D

Day 2

Enjoy a hearty breakfast this morning before meeting your private guide for a kayaking experience on the calm waters of the Awaroa Estuary, where you’ll soak in the peaceful surroundings and spot abundant birdlife. Then take a short water taxi to Bark Bay to begin a guided hike along another spectacular section of the Abel Tasman Coast Track, making your way to Anchorage. This scenic stretch leads through lush native forest, across swing bridges, and along golden beaches. Upon arrival, enjoy a short transfer to Motueka River Lodge, where you’ll check in and relax with a glass of New Zealand wine and canapés on the verandah before a special four-course dinner at the lodge.

Included: B - L - D

Walking Anchorage Abel Tasman Print Res taken by Oliver Weber credit www nelsontasman nz min

Day 3

After a wholesome breakfast at the lodge, meet your driver for a transfer to the helicopter base, where your heli-hiking adventure begins. Soar over the vast wilderness of Kahurangi National Park before touching down for an alpine landing, where your private guide will introduce the landscape and hike ahead. Follow a scenic section of the iconic Heaphy Track through varied terrain toward the wild West Coast, where you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch on a remote beach. Later, take to the skies once more for a spectacular return flight along the dramatic coastline. Back at the lodge, unwind with wine and canapés before sitting down to a well-earned dinner.

Included: B - L - D

Day 4

After a leisurely morning at Motueka River Lodge, your guide will collect you for a relaxed journey back to Nelson Airport. En route, stop in the charming seaside village of Mapua to browse boutique shops, art galleries, and waterfront cafés set along the picturesque Waimea Estuary. Your next stop is Gravity Winery, nestled in the Moutere Hills with sweeping views of vineyards and distant peaks. Here, enjoy a tasting of their handcrafted wines, followed by a leisurely lunch overlooking the vines - an idyllic way to toast your time in the Nelson Tasman region. You'll be dropped off in Nelson for your onward journey.

Included: B