A Canadian in New Zealand-Days 24 - Abel Tasman National Park - Torrent Bay, Sandfly Bay, Medlands Beach, and Bark Bay

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Another unique vacation day in New Zealand. I spent the day at Abel Tasman National Park. This is a unique park in that the main access to the coastal points of the park are via the water. You basically take a water taxi to one of several drop-off points, then select a point from which to return from scheduled routes. I followed The Falls River outing where I was dropped off at Torrent Bay, hiked to Bark Bay, and picked up for my return trip. I used Abel Tasman AquaTaxi which I found to be excellent. They even provide a pick-up service at your local isite. Once dropped off you are on your own until the pick-up. I hiked 7.7 km to Bark Bay. The initial taxi ride to the drop off was interesting as they show you the apparently-famous Split Apple Rock (it looks like it sounds) as well as a local seal hide where you typically see the seals basking on the rocks. Once dropped off I explored Torrent Bay for a while - took some pictures and the mandatory shelling. Then off on the hike. The route had its ups and downs and overall well-maintained. On the way I veered off to two short side hikes - Sandfly Bay and Medlands Beach. The former was quite tough to get to with elevation changes and once there the sandfly was indeed abundant. It had of course a nice golden sandy beach. Medlands Beach was as well golden, however, very very small. On the route you also traverse a swing bridge. Finally, after about 4 hours I showed up at Bark Bay and waited my return trip. A fun day experiencing the water taxi and coastal nature of Abel Tasman. And of course more beaches.

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Comments

[BJ King]

Spectacular Scenery!
The south island can be a challenge. Never be in a hurry while driving! Great scenery, pictures can not do it justice we know. Looking forward to your pics of Milford Sound areas.