To kayak the entire length of the Abel Tasman should be on everyone’s bucket list. It is a true sea kayaking destination suitable for those with a sense of adventure and a love of nature. Be prepared to be amazed by the beautiful beaches, the local residents of seals, penguins, birdlife and the spectacular coastline with crystal clear waters.

This spectacular journey takes 3 days or if you can spare the time the more days the better! An experience to be shared with each other, with family or friends to create unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.

A journey suitable for those with outdoor experience, be able to read a map, read weather conditions and be comfortable with what Mother Nature can throw at you. It will be necessary to have suitable clothing and equipment for the trip (you can hire camping equipment from us).

Kayaking the length of the Abel Tasman is very achievable, you will need a minimum of  2 nights and 3 days, if you want to spoil yourself take longer! To kayak the entire length of the Abel Tasman is around 11-13 hours.(approx).

What to Bring

To enjoy your experience you will need:

• A Department of Conservation campsite booking. https://bookings.doc.govt.nz/web/Facilities/SearchViewGreatWalk.aspx?PlaceId=875
• Camping equipment.  You can hire everything on this page.
• Clothing suitable for kayaking
• Waterproof jacket
• Warm clothing for camping 
• Snacks and water
• Plenty of good food
• Camera
• First aid kit and personal toiletries
• Cellphone
• Bring large plastic bags suitable for keeping equipment dry

Inclusions

A safety briefing is given to everyone regardless of your kayaking experience, so please don't be offended.  

• Safety Briefing.  
• Life Jackets and paddling equipment
• Flare and maps
• A dry bag

Plan your trip

We are based at 29 Cornwall Place, Tata Beach, Takaka.  There is plenty of safe parking on Cornwall Place and also Petterson St, beside the toilet(from here walk towards the beach and turn right, head along the esplanade and we are on the beach in front of Tata Islands).

The nearest Settlement is Pōhara, with a store, cafe and plenty of accomodation it is only 8km.  There is plenty of ideas about accomodation and travel on our webpage https://www.goldenbaykayaks.co.nz/useful-links-golden-bay

• Takaka - 25 mins
• Motueka - 1.5hr 
• Nelson - 2.15hrs

What happens if I book and the weather is bad? If the weather is bad and we can't get on the water because of high winds we can transfer your trip to another day or if you leaving Golden Bay we will refund your booking. (please note a small booking fee of $2.00 will be charged)