Is this trip suitable for children?

Yes, children over 8 years old with basic fitness levels will enjoy the experience.

What should I bring for the boat cruise?

Bring a hat, sunscreen, camera, and a light jacket in case of wind.

Are there restroom facilities?

Yes, most tours include stops at spots with restrooms or facilities nearby.

Can I bring my own kayak or paddleboard?

This trip includes a boat cruise, but private rentals can be arranged separately.

What if the weather is bad?

Trips may be rescheduled or canceled in extreme weather for safety reasons.

Do I need to be experienced to join?

No prior experience is needed; guides will ensure safety and guidance throughout.

Water & Land Adventure in Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park, located at the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, is renowned for its vivid turquoise waters, golden beaches, and lush native forests. This diverse landscape offers a perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both marine and land-based adventures. The Water & Walk experience from Abel Tasman Water & Walk combines the best of both worlds, making it a standout activity in one of New Zealand’s most accessible wilderness areas. Participants begin with a scenic cruise across the park’s protected bays, where sightings of playful dolphins, curious seals, and seabirds are common. The boat tour offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the park’s granite cliffs, hidden coves, and pristine beaches. After disembarking, the guided walk takes visitors through verdant forests teeming with native flora and birdlife, leading to secluded coves and sandy beaches perfect for relaxing or exploring. The trail showcases iconic features like Tonga Island Marine Reserve, known for its vibrant marine ecology, and bald rock formations shaped by centuries of geological activity. This trip isn’t just about scenery; it’s steeped in local history, including Maori legends and tales of early European explorers. Abel Tasman Water & Walk is a must-do for those wanting an immersive, day-long adventure that captures the essence of New Zealand’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you're an avid hiker, wildlife admirer, or just seeking a memorable day in nature, this experience highlights why Abel Tasman is a favorite for adventure travelers worldwide.

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

6–8 hours.

Fitness level

Participants should be comfortable with light hiking and have basic swimming ability.

Wildlife

Hector's dolphins
variable sea birds

History

Abel Tasman was the first New Zealand national park established in 1942, preserving its lush forests and marine ecosystems.

Conservation

The park's marine reserve has helped protect its delicate aquatic ecosystems, ensuring sustainable tourism and wildlife preservation.

Wine Art and Wilderness operates guided tours across Nelson/Tasman, Marlborough, Abel Tasman, Kahurangi and Golden Bay, offering a blend of wine, art and nature experiences. The operator curates day tours and multi-activity adventures that bring guests into family-owned and boutique vineyards, vibrant local galleries and nationally significant natural landscapes. Tours include vineyard tastings and vineyard lunches, opportunities to meet passionate winemakers, gallery and studio visits that showcase local artists, scenic cruises along Abel Tasman’s coastline, guided coastal and forest walks, and kayak options that explore pristine beaches and marine life. Several itineraries highlight regional features such as the Pelorus River, Te Waikoropupū Springs, Lake Rotoiti and the Moutere Hills. The program also visits notable creative hubs and artists’ studios, including stops that reference prominent local practitioners. Each trip emphasizes storytelling and local knowledge: guides share regional history, winemaking practices and artistic context while navigating natural environments like beech forest, alpine slabs and coastal reserves. Wildlife encounters cited in tour descriptions include dolphins, fur seals and native bird species. Activities range from relaxed tastings to moderate hikes and multi-mode adventures combining boat, kayak and walking segments. Information about each itinerary — from wine tours in Nelson and Marlborough to Abel Tasman Water & Walk and Alpine Splendour in Kahurangi — is presented so travelers can match interests, activity level and seasonal considerations. The offering appeals to guests seeking immersive regional experiences that combine culture, cuisine and wild landscapes.

Base locationNelson, Nelson

Tours offered10+

Specialtywater-activities

StewardshipLeave No Trace

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