Australia & New Zealand Holidays is a subsidiary of the Travelcation Group
New Zealand’s South Island delivers a coastal walking experience like no other on this six-day itinerary that features the best sections of both the Queen Charlotte and Abel Tasman Tracks. These two iconic trails offer contrasting landscapes, from the lush, green hills of the Marlborough Sounds to the golden beaches and turquoise waters of Abel Tasman National Park.
Begin with two days exploring the Queen Charlotte Track. Walk through peaceful beech forests and along high ridgelines with sweeping views over the Sounds, pausing at quiet coves and hidden bays along the way. Boat transfers allow access to the most scenic parts without the need to retrace steps, offering a seamless day of walking. Comfortable lodge accommodation overlooking the water ensures restful evenings in a tranquil setting.The journey continues to Abel Tasman, where daily boat transfers connect walkers to the best sections of the trail. Here, the scenery shifts to coastal paths that hug the shoreline, with lush native bush on one side and calm, clear waters on the other. A guided kayaking excursion adds another perspective on the region’s natural beauty.
Accommodation is in two thoughtfully selected lodges, each offering a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, complete with a la carte dining featuring fresh local produce and wines from the surrounding regions. With a Pack Free approach and flexible itinerary shaped around tidal crossings and weather conditions, this walk is as relaxed as it is rewarding.This experience captures the heart of New Zealand’s top coastal trails and is ideal for those seeking scenic diversity, gentle adventure, and a deeper connection to place.
October 2025 to April 2026
Meet your guides at 7.30am at London Quay Wharf in Picton. Cruise to Ship Cove and begin walking through lush rainforest and along ridgelines with views of Cook Strait and Resolution Bay. Descend to Endeavour Inlet and continue to Furneaux Lodge, where you can relax or swim before dinner featuring local produce and Marlborough Sounds wines.
Overnight at Furneaux Lodge
After breakfast, take a cruise to Punga Cove and walk back to Furneaux Lodge. Follow forest trails rich in birdlife and climb gently to Kenepuru Saddle for scenic views. The track leads over low ridges before descending to the water’s edge at the lodge. Spend the afternoon at leisure and enjoy a relaxed dinner served with fine New Zealand wine.
Overnight at Furneaux Lodge
Travel by water taxi to Torea Bay and begin a steady climb to the highest point of the Queen Charlotte Track. Follow the ridge to Lochmara Lodge with views of Kenepuru and Queen Charlotte Sounds. Visit the wildlife centre before enjoying a celebratory lunch. Return by boat to Picton, then travel to Nelson for dinner at the Rutherford Hotel.
Overnight in Nelson
After breakfast, transfer to Kaiteriteri and cruise to Medlands Beach. Walk from Bark Bay across forested headlands to Onetahuti Bay, then cross a walkway and climb to a scenic ridgeline before reaching Awaroa Inlet. Spend the afternoon relaxing before dining at the lodge, where the seasonal menu is paired with exceptional New Zealand wines.
Overnight in Awaroa
This morning, enjoy an optional kayak along the sheltered waters of Awaroa Bay, often visited by fur seals. Non-kayakers may relax at the lodge. Lunch is served at Harakeke Restaurant overlooking the wetlands. In the afternoon, walk local tracks while your guide shares insights into the region’s flora and fauna. Dinner is served with wine this evening.
Overnight in Awaroa
After breakfast, transfer by boat to Totaranui and begin walking over a granite headland past Goat Bay and Waiharakeke Bay. Return to Awaroa Inlet, collect your luggage, then cruise to Kaiteriteri. A minibus transfer returns you to Nelson, arriving around 6.45pm to conclude your walking 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.