Multi-Day Independent Kayak Hire Options

Abel Tasman National Park is a haven for adventurers, families and those with a love of the outdoors - ‘far from the madding crowd’, you’ll see nature at her best.

In 1642 Abel Janszoon Tasman dropped anchor off Taupo Point, he named it Murderers Bay. Now, Golden Bay is a haven for explorers of a different kind. It’s an experience for those wishing to see the Abel Tasman the way it was, no ‘madding crowds’, just nature at her best.

Leaving from Tata Beach enables you to experience the magical northern end of the Abel Tasman National Park and beyond.

We are the only sea kayak operator that gives you the opportunity to paddle the full length of the Abel Tasman National Park with the wind at your back, with a pick up from either Totaranui or Marahau.

You are responsible for your own safety and our equipment during the rental period. Sea kayaking has associated risks. Our requirements are:

• Minimum number of two people.

• Stable double kayaks are provided, for that extra person we do have singles available.

• You need to be water confident and have paddling experience.

• You need to be comfortable in an outdoor environment, understand how to read a map and understand how to look after yourself in the outdoors.

• Camping equipment is available for hire:

• Tents

• Sleeping bag and sleeping matt

• Cookers and gas canisters for sale

• Chiller box

We also have insect repellent, muesli bars, chippies and a wee selection of goodies for sale and coffee to give you that send off you deserve!

We have a range of different options for you to explore the Abel Tasman. Browse below to see the explanations and you can also refer to the MAP in the About Us section of this website.

Option 1. 2 Days kayaking, night at Taupo Point.

Taupo Point was nominated the most beautiful beach in the Abel Tasman - we also think it’s the most romantic…

This trip gives a taste of everything Abel Tasman National Park has to offer. If you only have 2 days it’s a great short trip option.

• A leisurely paddling experience
• A good option for those that have had a little experience, looking for an Abel Tasman experience but don’t feel they need to be too adventurous.
• Wildlife galore including seals, birds, stingrays
• A special sunset experience
• A historic Maori pa site and home to New Zealand's oldest maritime structure, an ancient waka boat ramp.
• Overnight camping far from the madding crowds
• One of the most beautiful beaches in the Abel Tasman National Park
• Camping is amongst Kanuka trees or on the beach. No fires are permitted.
• There is no running water
• There are toilet facilities
• Absolutely NO fires
• This is an independent kayak hire in the Abel Tasman National Park.

A weather-dependent option is to land at Whawharangi and visit the historic Homestead. Then walk out to the spectacular Separation Point, this is where the waters of Golden Bay and Tasman Bay meet. There is also a seal colony out here where you can watch them play for hours!

Option 2. 2 days kayaking a night in the Northern end of Abel Tasman National Park.

For those wanting a little more adventure - a real taste of what the Abel Tasman has to offer in a compact tour

The northern end of the Abel Tasman is a breathtaking destination. The landscape is a tapestry of beauty and this is the best two day sea kayaking trip in New Zealand.

The trip is suitable for those wanting a little more adventure and to experience New Zealand at its natural best, ideal if you are short of time but still want to experience sea kayaking in the Abel Tasman National Park.

Your journey starts at Tata Beach, Golden Bay, from here you will sea kayak beside one of the most spectacular landscapes in this country, arriving at Separation Point with a remote lighthouse and a large colony of Kokeno (NZ fur seals) to farewell you from Golden Bay and welcoming you to Tasman Bay.

The Northern End of the Abel Tasman National Park is not only the more remote, quieter end, but it is also the most beautiful. There is a number of campsites that you can choose from on this adventure, steeped in history and wonderment they won’t disappoint

Waiharakeke - Wharawharangi Hut and campsite, the first camping area that you will come too.

Mutton Cove - Tucked around the corner from Separation Point, this is a fabulous campsite.

Anapai - Just a little further from Mutton Cove, the native bush surrounding this little campsite is magical.

Remember to book your campsite with the Department of Conservation. For this trip, Mutton Cove is recommended (paddle time to Mutton Cove is 3-4hr).

Pick up is at Totaranui.

Option 3. Paddle the length of the Abel Tasman National Park-3 days +

5 day kayak Abel Tasman

Fabulous trip kayaking and camping the whole Abel Tasman park coast. Tony and Lisa were very knowledgeable and safety conscious. We started a day earlier on Tony’s advice due to in coming weather. Good move! We were well briefed with comprehensive overviews of what to expect at each part of the coast. Great stable kayaks. So much fun. 5 days gave us time to paddle and explore and walk some of the track each day. Loved our campsites. Highly recommend Golden Bay Kayaks and the whole trip.

To kayak the entire length of the Abel Tasman should be on everyone’s bucket list. It is a true sea kayaking destination suitable for those with a sense of adventure and a love of nature. Be prepared to be amazed by the beautiful beaches, the local residents of seals, penguins, birdlife and the spectacular coastline with crystal clear waters.

This spectacular journey takes 3 days or if you can spare the time the more days the better! An experience to be shared with each other, with family or friends to create unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.

A journey suitable for those with outdoor experience, be able to read a map, read weather conditions and be comfortable with what Mother Nature can throw at you. It will be necessary to have suitable clothing and equipment for the trip (you can hire camping equipment from us).

Kayaking the length of the Abel Tasman is very achievable, you will need a minimum of  2 nights and 3 days, if you want to spoil yourself take longer! To kayak the entire length of the Abel Tasman is around 11-13 hours.(approx).