Abel Tasman Kayak Adventures with Independent Guides
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.
Overview
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.
Three Day Hire
For ages 14+ • Get a taste of the Abel Tasman • Our most recommended for the time poor!
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About This Adventure
Experience the stunning Abel Tasman National Park like never before with a guided kayaking adventure. Begin your journey with expert training and all necessary gear provided. Choose between a full day of exploration or a one-way kayak hire, making it a unique and flexible outdoor experience.
Come get amongst it and explore the Abel Tasman in the best way!
About
Meet at Old MacDonalds Farm office for bookings and payments open at 8:00am every day. Payments and camp bookings to be done prior to the briefing starting at 9:00am.
Multi day people start packing 8:30am.
At 9:00am you will be brought round to the base (50m from the office) where you will be introduced to your kayak and how to pack it and put on all warm neoprene tops/booties that are supplied.
For the next half hour you will be taken through an intensive training session that we call a briefing. After filling in a form its off to the beach for launch with 10-15 minutes more complimentary training/testing before setting off on your day or days journey. The day will finish at 4:30pm with a pick up at the beach.
You may choose a one way hire, from Marahau into the Abel Tasman National Park then walking back. This this incurs an additional cost of $44 for a single kayak and $50 for a double kayak.
More info
Independent Guides prides itself on providing the most equipment of any Abel Tasman sea kayak company while also costing the least.
1.Gloves 2.Paddle Shirt 3.Paddle Vest (Woman) 4.Paddle Vest (Man) 5.Booties 6.Double Kayak 7.Buoyancy Aids 8.Spray Skirts 9.Bilge Pumps 10.Emergency Flare 11.Split Paddles 12.10 Litre Camera Bag 13.30 Litre Gear Bag 14.Paddles x2 15.Paddle Tops 16.Map
Adventure Tips
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.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- New Zealand fur seal
- Spotted shag
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.
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Adventure Hotspots in Nelson
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Neoprene Top and Booties
Protects from cold water and wind chill during paddling.
all specific
Waterproof Camera Bag
Keeps photography gear safe while capturing stunning coastal moments.
all specific
Paddle Vest
Provides buoyancy and comfort during long kayaking sessions.
all specific
Sun Protection (Hat and Sunscreen)
Vital for preventing sunburn during exposed water paddling.
summer specific