A New Zealand showcase of wild coastal and alpine beauty
Go beyond the usual suspects on New Zealand’s South Island as you spend eight days discovering alpine wilderness, coastal trails and crystal-clear waters. As you spend time travelling from Nelson to Christchurch via the west coast, experience two days hiking through the ethereal and unspoiled beauty of Abel Tasman National Park, take a self-guided cycle on the West Coast Wilderness Trail between Arahura River and Kumara, and head above the treeline in Arthur’s Pass to Edwards Hut. Learn of local Māori traditions and customs, paddling in a traditional waka (canoe), and have time to explore historic townships along the way. It’s not New Zealand without rugged mountaintops, pristine waters and spectacular winding roads, and you’ll hit all three and more with a local guide leading you each day.
Spend two days hiking through the pristine wilderness of Abel Tasman National Park. Walk along the coast track to Barks Bay and Anchorage, and swim in the crystal clear waters of Cleopatra’s Pool.
Learn of withstanding Māori customs, blessings and etiquette in Abel Tasman National Park. During a special waka (Māori canoe) experience, a local waka guide will fill you in on the area’s history and traditions.
Hike a spectacular limestone river canyon in Paparoa National Park, collecting wood for a fire in an overhang cave near your secluded campsite.
Cycle the West Coast Wilderness Trail on a self-guided biking experience between the Arahura River Bridge and historic Kumara. You will pedal past native forests, clear streams and panoramas just asking for a photo.
A trek up through Edwards Valley is all the more worth it when you peer on top of the treeline towards rugged mountain tops at Edwards Hut. Spend the night with fellow hikers in the heart of the Southern Alps.
Just as a heads up before you book: this trip is new to our range. And while we have thoroughly researched every detail of the logistics, new destinations can sometimes throw us some unexpected surprises. More often than not, it’ll be a great surprise. But every now and again there might be a hiccup. We like to think that’s what puts the ‘adventure’ in ‘adventure travel’.
This trip is a real adventure with Kiwi-style hiking and carrying your own belongings including a sleeping bag.
On these trips everyone lends a hand: whether it’s cooking over a campfire, collecting firewood or pitching a tent together. There’s nothing quite like wrestling a tent in the wind to get to know your fellow travellers.
No multi-day hiking experience is needed but you need to be a good walker and able to carry a backpack. And yes, occasionally you might just get your feet wet!
Please ensure you consult your local government’s advice regarding domestic and international travel prior to booking this trip.
This trip is new to our range this year. And while we have thoroughly researched every detail of the logistics, new destinations and working with new partners can sometimes throw us some unexpected surprises. More often than not, it’ll be a great surprise. But every now and again there might be a hiccup. We like to think that’s what puts the ‘adventure’ in ‘adventure travel’.
Trip departures are unavailable.
There are currently no scheduled departures on our Hike Abel Tasman & West Coast Rainforests trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.
1. This trip starts at 9:30am am in Nelson on day 1.
2. This trip finishes with a drop off at 5:30pm in Christchurch. Please do not book any flights until after 10pm this evening.
3. This trip is a real adventure with Kiwi-style hiking and carrying your own belongings.
4. You will be required to bring your own sleeping bag.
5. Bicycle hire is included on day 6 so we require all customers height at the time of booking.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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