Paddle the turquoise bays of Abel Tasman National Park with Independent Guides’ flexible kayak hire. Get expert training, premium gear, and access to the park’s hidden coastal gems on your terms.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–8 hours per day
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in good physical condition with basic endurance; prior paddling experience helpful but not required.
Wildlife
History
Abel Tasman National Park was New Zealand’s first national park, established in 1942 to protect its unique coastal environment.
Conservation
Independent Guides promotes Leave No Trace principles to minimize visitor impact on the delicate coastal ecosystems.
Independent Guides
Paddle the turquoise bays of Abel Tasman National Park with Independent Guides’ flexible kayak hire. Get expert training, premium gear, and access to the park’s hidden coastal gems on your terms.
Independent Guides is a Mārahau-based kayak hire and guiding business operating in and around Abel Tasman National Park. They offer a range of flexible kayak hire options — Single day hire, Two Day Hire, Three Day Hire, Four Day Hire and Five Day Hire — each delivered with expert training and all necessary gear provided.
Every experience includes a comprehensive briefing and hands-on training so participants are prepared for tidal conditions, coastal navigation and safe paddling. Trip formats include full-day paddles and one-way kayak hire options that pair paddling with walking sections; some customers choose to paddle one way into the national park and walk back. Independent Guides supplies kayaks, paddles, buoyancy aids and dry bags so visitors can focus on the scenery and the route.
Independent Guides operates from Mārahau, providing convenient access to common launch points and coastal routes in Abel Tasman. The company emphasizes safety, local knowledge and clear communication when planning itineraries to match weather and group ability. Independent Guides serves day visitors and multi-day groups seeking reliable, well-equipped kayaking experiences in Abel Tasman National Park, making coastal paddling accessible and memorable for a wide range of visitors.
Location
Mārahau, Tasman
Launch point for Abel Tasman trips
Tours Offered
5 Trip Options
Single- to five-day kayak hires
Training Included
Briefing & Instruction
Hands-on training before each launch
Gear Provided
All Necessary Equipment
Kayaks, paddles, buoyancy aids
Select single- to five-day options — training and all necessary gear included for Abel Tasman adventures.
Attend the Full Briefing
The morning training session is crucial for learning kayak basics and safety protocols—don’t skip it.
Pack Light but Smart
Use supplied waterproof bags for your essentials to keep gear dry and balanced in your kayak.
Check Tides and Weather
Tidal flow can affect your paddle effort; plan your route around calm, incoming tides when possible.
Wear Neoprene Gear Even On Warm Days
Water temperatures can be cool year-round — the provided neoprene tops and booties are vital for comfort.
Neoprene Top and Booties
Protects from cold water and wind chill during paddling.
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Waterproof Camera Bag
Keeps photography gear safe while capturing stunning coastal moments.
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Paddle Vest
Provides buoyancy and comfort during long kayaking sessions.
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Sun Protection (Hat and Sunscreen)
Vital for preventing sunburn during exposed water paddling.
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