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NelsonNational parks

Our most recommended Nelson National parks

Abel Tasman National Park Scenic Cruise

1. Abel Tasman National Park Scenic Cruise

Head out from beautiful Kaiteriteri Beach on this 4-hour scenic cruise through Abel Tasman National Park. See the world-famous Split Apple Rock, New Zealand fur seals, Bark Bay, Tonga Quarry, and golden sand beaches and sparkling turquoise waters along the way. Explore the coastline and discover secluded beaches and bays from the comfort of the boat. Learn about the history of the park and what makes it such a special place to visit. Hear commentary about the region and its inhabitants. The cruise is the best ways to experience Abel Tasman National Park, while encountering some of the local wildlife.

Abel Tasman National Park Cruise and Walking Tour Combo

2. Abel Tasman National Park Cruise and Walking Tour Combo

Experience the best of Abel Tasman National Park on this full-day boat cruise and walk combo tour. There are 3 different walk options available on this day of discovery. Enjoy a scenic cruise, visits to Split Apple Rock and a fur seal colony, golden beaches, forest walking, and wildlife encounters all on a single day out. There are 3 tour options: Option A: Astrolabe Beaches and Bays Walking distance: 7 km Walking time: 2.5 hours Details: After a scenic cruise, you’ll be dropped off at Apple Tree Bay at 12 PM, for a walk to Anchorage Beach. There is also the option of adding the 1-hour Pitt Head loop track to Te Pukatea Beach. Pick-up in Anchorage at 3:45 or 5:00 PM** Arrival in Kaiteriteri at 4:20 or 5:30 PM** Option B: Forest and Swing Bridge Walking distance: 10.5 km Walking time: 4 hours Details: Following a scenic cruise, you'll be dropped off at Medlands Beach at 11:30 AM for an interesting walk to Anchorage Beach that includes the scenic highlights of the South Head lookout, the famous Falls River swing bridge and Cleopatra’s Pool. Pick-up in Anchorage at 3:45 or 5:00 PM** Arrival in Kaiteriteri at 4:20 or 5:30 PM** Option C: 5 Beaches Walking distance: 8.8 km Walking time: 3.5 hours Details: After a scenic cruise, you'll be dropped off at Awaroa at 11:00 AM and enjoy a walk that takes in 5 beaches between Awaroa and your pick-up point at Medlands Beach. This option also features the option of stopping at the Awaroa Lodge Café, where you can enjoy the excellent views and native forests as well as a waterfall and lagoon at Bark Bay. Note that a steep climb from Tonga Quarry requires a reasonable level of fitness. Pick-up at Medlands Beach at 3:30 or 4:45 PM** Arrival in Kaiteriteri at 4:20 or 5:30 PM** * Summer season only: 15 October-30 April ** Peak summer only: 1 December-31 March

Abel Tasman National Park: Sailing and Self-Guided Walk

3. Abel Tasman National Park: Sailing and Self-Guided Walk

Delight in an amazing day out in Abel Tasman National Park that combines sailing along the stunning coastline before embarking on one of New Zealand's great walks. Start your day sailing from Kaiteriteri Beach, soaking up the scenery along the picturesque coastline. Take in the golden beaches, bays, islands, and birdsong, and pass by the iconic Split Apple Rock and the playful New Zealand fur seal colony. As you sail, learn about the history, marine life, flora, and fauna of Abel Tasman from your knowledgeable skipper. Arrive at Anchorage Bay around midday, and enjoy your own packed lunch on the beach or take a swim before starting your self-guided nature walk back to Marahau. During your hike, stroll along sandy beaches via picture-perfect lookouts and through native bush. Admire the beautiful scenery the National Park coastal track has to offer on a self-guided walk that generally takes between 3-4 hours.

Abel Tasman National Park: Day Sailing Adventure with Lunch

4. Abel Tasman National Park: Day Sailing Adventure with Lunch

Start your day sailing from Kaiteriteri beach and enjoy a full day of sailing through New Zealand's stunning Abel Tasman National Park. Either chill out and relax, get involved in the sailing or learn as you go - you decide. Experience some great sailing, enjoy some stunning beaches and islands, with a full hour to enjoy your lunch and relax on Anchorage Beach. A great opportunity to go swimming or take a short walk and explore the caves. Throughout this full-day tour, you will have an opportunity to visit the Fur Seal Colony, Split Apple Rock, and a range of beautiful destinations before returning to Kaiteriteri Beach. This incredible tour will have you seeing all the Abel Tasman National Park highlights in one day.

Abel Tasman National Park: Helicopter Flight with landing

5. Abel Tasman National Park: Helicopter Flight with landing

Experience a private helicopter flight from Nelson Airport and witness impressive views of Abel Tasman National Park. Land at Awaroa Bay and have time for a walk, a swim, or lunch at the lodge. After boarding your private helicopter at Nelson Airport, you'll be whisked away to the stunningly beautiful Abel Tasman National Park. Following the coastline, marvel at the golden sand beaches and turquoise waters from the air before landing at Awaroa Bay. This slice of paradise is so remote, that access is by boat, helicopter, or foot. There are no private vehicles. Your pilot will ensure you see all the beautiful highlights of the National Park with two-way communication during your flight. After landing, your pilot will escort you through the bush and direct you to the beach or the lodge for refreshments or lunch. You'll have time for a swim, a beach walk, or just to soak in the serenity and beauty of the National Park.

From Nelson: Scenic Helicopter Ride and Mountain Picnic

6. From Nelson: Scenic Helicopter Ride and Mountain Picnic

From the helicopter base at Nelson Airport, board your private helicopter and be transported into the Mount Richmond Forest Park. Enjoy birds eye views of Nelson, Marlborough, The Sounds and Tasman Bay. Land at high altitude on a secluded mountain peak and be guided by your pilot to a picnic spot to enjoy time together in the great outdoors. Toast your friends and family, creating lasting memories. The stunning views and remote natural beauty will take your breath away. Your pilot will ensure all the landmarks are pointed out to you. Re-board the helicopter and return to base.

Nelson: Kahurangi National Park and Mt Owen Helicopter Tour

7. Nelson: Kahurangi National Park and Mt Owen Helicopter Tour

From Nelson Airport, fly southwest before entering the Kahurangi National Park for a landing on Mt Owen. Filming for Lord of the Rings was undertaken here for 10 days with the result being one of the most moving moments in the film. It was here, distraught at the loss of Gandalf, the remaining members of the Fellowship escaped the mines and threw themselves to the ground in their grief. Mt Owen showcases some of the oldest rock in New Zealand and has priceless geological properties. As you ascend, a landscape of glaciated marble karst is exposed and you appreciate the challenges for film crew working within the harsh alpine environment. Your pilot will guide you and allow time for plenty of photos and for soaking in the atmosphere of this unique location. Re-board your helicopter for the return flight back to Nelson Airport. A flight of a lifetime you won't forget.

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What people are saying about Nelson

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 58 reviews

This is a great way to experience Abel Tasman when you only have a day. I recommend the walk from Apple Tree Bay to Anchorage - 2h is more than enough walking, especially if it's hot, and gives you enough time to enjoy the beach. Plus, being able to cruise all the way up to the top and then back was nice. Saw lots of seals along the way!

We booked online but needed to adjust our plans. The Sea Shuttle staff at the Kaiteriteri office were incredibly helpful and friendly assisting us to do this. We were very impressed. The trip itself was spectacular!!

Friendly and professional staff. Magnificent landscapes. Unfortunately, there were no seals that day. The 3h walk back it's a must do!

Very nice crew. Good on board information about region and history.

Great experience, loved the added bonus of seeing dolphins