The Abel Tasman Coast Track offers one of New Zealand’s most scenic and rewarding multi-day walking experiences. Located at the top of the South Island, Abel Tasman National Park is known for its golden beaches, tranquil coves, and lush native bush. This Pack Free walking holiday has been designed to showcase the park’s most spectacular coastal sections, with a balance of walking, boat travel, and time to relax.
The journey begins with an overnight stay in Nelson, setting the stage for the days ahead. From there, walkers are transferred into the heart of the national park, where private boat transport each day allows access to the most beautiful parts of the trail. Each walk reveals something different, from tidal estuaries and swing bridges to vibrant forest and sweeping beach vistas. With no need to carry a heavy pack or retrace steps, each day feels fresh and manageable, perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature without the physical strain.
Two nights are spent at the serene Awaroa Lodge, a remote retreat nestled in the park’s northern section. Guests enjoy peaceful surroundings, comfortable accommodation, and a menu focused on fresh, local produce. A guided kayaking excursion adds another perspective to the experience, offering the chance to paddle alongside marine wildlife and glide through calm bays.This walking holiday brings together the best of Abel Tasman’s landscapes, from beach to bush and sea to sky. With every detail taken care of and the support of experienced guides, it is a chance to move at a gentle pace, connect with nature, and enjoy the simple beauty of one of New Zealand’s most treasured coastal environments.
October 2025 to April 2026
Arrive in Nelson at any time and make your way to the Rutherford Hotel. Spend the day exploring this vibrant city known for its art, galleries and festivals. In the evening, meet your guides and fellow walkers for a welcome dinner at Oceano Panorama Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy seasonal dishes and local New Zealand wines.
Overnight in Nelson
After breakfast, transfer to Kaiteriteri and cruise along the Abel Tasman coastline to Medlands Beach. Walk from Bark Bay through native forest, past an old granite quarry, and across swing bridges to reach Onetahuti Bay. The trail continues to a ridgeline before descending to the Awaroa Inlet. This evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner at the lodge restaurant featuring regional flavours and fine wine.
Overnight in Awaroa
Those not kayaking can relax at the lodge. Lunch is served at Harakeke Restaurant with views over the wetlands. In the afternoon, join a short walk along local tracks with insights into the area’s ecology. Tonight’s dinner highlights seasonal ingredients paired with New Zealand wines.
Overnight in Awaroa
After breakfast, take a boat to Totaranui and begin your walk across coastal headlands and quiet bays. Pass through Goat Bay and Waiharakeke Bay before returning to Awaroa Inlet to collect your bags. A boat transfer takes you back to Kaiteriteri, followed by a drive to Nelson, arriving at around 6.45pm to conclude your journey.
Price & Availability
All bookings are subject to availability at the time of your request. Once we receive your booking enquiry, we’ll confirm availability within 24 hours.
Prices are quoted in Australian Dollars (AUD). If your package includes services priced in other currencies, currency conversion will be processed at midnight (AEST) each day. Please be aware that due to the constantly changing nature of exchange rates and supplier pricing, all package prices are subject to change until full payment is received and booking is confirmed.
Self-Guided Packages – Terms & Conditions
Our Self-Guided Packages are designed for travellers who want the freedom to explore independently, without the hassle of planning every detail. Each package follows a tried-and-tested itinerary that includes a combination of pre-booked services, such as accommodation and transport, and optional group tours or private experiences. You’ll have the flexibility to discover each destination at your own pace, with the confidence of having essential logistics taken care of and access to local support if needed.
Accommodation Flexibility
We understand that every traveller has different needs, so our itineraries offer flexibility in accommodation. You can choose from a range of hotels, from 3-star options to luxury 5-star properties, in most locations. If your first-choice hotel is not available at the time of booking, we will offer you an alternative of similar standard, quality, and location.
Travellers are welcome to customise their accommodation preferences before confirming their booking. If you’re unsure about the best options for your travel style, our team is happy to recommend alternatives.
Booking On Request
All packages are offered on request basis. In most cases, a deposit may be required before we can secure accommodation and services.
Once we receive your deposit and booking enquiry, we aim to confirm your package within 24 hours (longer if weekends or public holidays apply).
If your preferred travel dates are not available, we’ll suggest the closest alternatives or offer a full refund of your deposit.
Dynamic Pricing
Many of our accommodation providers and local suppliers use dynamic pricing models, which means prices fluctuate depending on factors such as demand, travel seasons, and availability.
Our listed “from” prices represent the lowest available rates based on low season travel with full availability. When you request a quote for your preferred travel dates, we’ll provide an accurate, up-to-date price based on availability at the time of quoting.
Prices may vary between the time we provide a quote and when you confirm your booking. Should there be any price differences, we will notify you before final confirmation and payment.
Itinerary Order & Availability
The order of your itinerary, including accommodation, tours, and transport, may be adjusted to secure the best availability and ensure a smooth travel experience. While we strive to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, changes may be necessary, particularly during peak travel periods or when bookings are made close to your departure date.
For bookings made well in advance and outside of peak seasons, itinerary changes are uncommon. Any adjustments will be communicated to you in advance and are made with the aim of maintaining or improving the overall experience.
The final itinerary—including the order of your activities and accommodations—will be confirmed after your booking is secured.
Payment Terms
• A deposit may be required to secure your booking.
• Full payment is due no later than 45 days prior to your scheduled arrival date.
• If additional deposits are required by certain hotels or service providers, we will advise you at the time of confirmation.
• Your booking is not confirmed until full payment is received.
• Payments can be made via direct deposit, credit card, or other approved methods (merchant fees may apply).
Changes & Cancellations
• Your deposit is non-refundable once your booking is confirmed.
• Changes to your booking are permitted up to 45 days prior to departure, subject to availability and supplier approval. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of the change.
• Cancellations within 45 days of arrival will incur a 100% cancellation fee, unless otherwise stated in your booking confirmation.
• Any rail tickets and flight tickets included in your package are non-refundable once issued and confirmed. These are subject to airline and supplier policies, which may include strict cancellation and amendment terms.
• We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect against unforeseen changes or cancellations.
Additional Information
• Please review visa requirements, health advice, and local regulations for your chosen destination prior to travel.
• We recommend allowing extra time for processing visas or travel documentation, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all bookings to cover unexpected events, including illness, cancellations, or delays.
If you’d rather chat, give one of our Travelcation Experts a call today to begin crafting your bespoke holiday experience.