Experience the tranquility of Abel Tasman’s coastal waters on a traditional Maori waka. Discover hidden coves, encounter local wildlife, and learn about Maori culture with Waka Journey. Read on for more about this memorable adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be able to sit and paddle comfortably; no prior experience needed.
Wildlife
History
The Maori have paddled these waters for centuries, and waka are traditional vessels deeply rooted in their culture.
Conservation
The park’s marine environment is protected, with strict guidelines to preserve its natural beauty and wildlife.
Waka Abel Tasman
Experience the tranquility of Abel Tasman’s coastal waters on a traditional Maori waka. Discover hidden coves, encounter local wildlife, and learn about Maori culture with Waka Journey. Read on for more about this memorable adventure.
Waka Abel Tasman is a waka (Māori canoe) operator based in Tasman Bay, Tasman, offering guided paddling and cultural experiences along the Abel Tasman coastline. The company runs a range of short and group trips that introduce visitors to traditional waka practice, coastal scenery, and local stories. Trips include the Waka Journey, Hiking NZ Rakauroa, Split Apple Rock - Toka Ngawhā, Group Trip - Haerenga Rōpu, and Group Trip - Kō Awatea | Sunrise.
Guides provide instruction in waka etiquette and basic paddling technique, with family-friendly equipment and kid-friendly paddles available for specific trips such as the Split Apple Rock and Group Haerenga Rōpu. The Split Apple Rock trip is a three-hour paddle with a brief training session, light refreshments, and a focus on accessibility for newcomers. The Kō Awatea | Sunrise trip departs early to witness dawn over the moana and celebrates Te Rā.
Waka Abel Tasman works within the Abel Tasman area and emphasises safety, local knowledge, and cultural context. Bookings accommodate groups and family outings, and the operator lists clear trip names to help visitors choose experiences based on duration and focus. Contact and booking details are provided through official channels on The Adventure Collective listing.
As a locally based operator, Waka Abel Tasman draws on knowledge of Tasman Bay and established coastal routes. The operator highlights cultural practice, guided instruction, and family-friendly paddling as core elements, making it suitable for visitors seeking an introductory waka experience in the Abel Tasman.
Location
Tasman Bay, Tasman
Operates on the Abel Tasman coastline
Tours Offered
5 trips
Waka Journey, Split Apple Rock and more
Notable Trip
Split Apple Rock – 3 hrs
Three-hour paddle with training
Family Friendly
Kid-friendly
Selected trips include kid paddles
Secure a spot on Waka Abel Tasman trips through The Adventure Collective listing and official operator channels.
Wear sun protection
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to stay comfortable during the trip.
Bring a camera
Capture stunning coastal views and wildlife encounters along the way.
Dress in layers
Layering helps adjust to changing weather conditions on the water.
Stay hydrated
Bring water to stay refreshed during the paddle trip.
Sun hat
Protects your face from sun exposure during the water trip.
summer
Waterproof camera
Ideal for capturing scenic views and wildlife.
summer
Light water shoes
Provides grip and protection when stepping in shallow waters.
summer
Light rain jacket
Useful if weather turns overcast or drizzly.
spring|fall