ABEL TASMAN BY KYAK

On last year's visit to the Abel Tasman National Park, we had sampled the stunning coastline by water taxi from Kaiteriteri to Torrent Bay.  We then continued on foot to Bark Bay to await our return water taxi.  We loved the 2.5 hour walk and the iconic swingbridge, but we looked on enviously at those kayaking around the coast and resolved to return one day for a different perspective of the coastline.

There are numerous operators providing guided kayak tours and various options from half day to three day trips with walking elements too.  You can hire a kayak and make your own way, but we saw first hand towards the end of our day how perilous this can be as a couple flagged down our water taxi for help;  definitely a guided tour for us.

We settled on Kahu Kayaks and their full day tour into the marine reserve at the northern end of the National Park.

Kahu Kayaks offered a free pick-up from our base in Motueka for the transfer to Marahau.  And being a smaller company than some of the bigger operators, we felt this would provide a more personal experience.  With just two other double kayaks, our local guide Luc was able to keep close eye on us all.

We boarded the water taxi at their base in Marahau.  Initially, towed by a tractor along the road to the beach and then, once the kayaks were loaded, on our way to Onetahuti at an exhilarating 35 knots.

Onboard the water taxi

Initially we paddled further north into the marine reserve spotting Stingrays in the crystal clear waters beneath us and then seals sunbathing on the rocks just metres away.

Stingray spotting

We landed on the beach at Tonga Arches for a swim whilst Luc made coffees.  Then we set-out again heading south, and as we left the reserve, Luc trailed a fishing line behind his kayak.  Perhaps there would be something to supplement the "play lunches" provided by Kahu.

Coffee stop at Tonga Arches

But with nothing caught on the line, we came ashore at Sandfly Bay with just our play lunches and to chill.  Fortunately we were not troubled by those pesky biting flies as aching muscles were rested and revived on the lovely beach.

Resting aching muscles at Sandfly Bay

Reviving aching muscles at Sandfly Bay

On the trip back, some team working was called for as all the kayaks were linked up to sail on the sea breeze towards Anchorage Bay by means of a makeshift spinnaker.

An absolutely wonderful day in perfect conditions.  We were so right to have come back for this experience.