Nelson and Abel Tasman National Park

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We arrived in Nelson late on Thursday 26th February and camped a few kilometres from the town on a site by the Tahunanui Beach a long golden strand.

The next day we explored sunny Nelson, population 40,000, a lovely relaxed city by the sea, surrounded by award winning wineries, what more can we say......heaven!

Got up early next day, yes there's a bit of a theme developing, to get to The Abel Tasman National Park with a view to hiring some kayaks or walking part of the Abel Tasman way, a long distance coastal path. We got on a half day excursion which took us by water taxi to Watering Cove, where we met our guide, who led us back down the coast in kayaks. We passed the non inhabited Island of Adele where we saw some seals on the rocks and heard some very loud birds. According to our guide, Captain Cook when he landed in the 1700's had to anchor 2 km from shore as the birds were so loud at nights the sailors couldn't sleep! They certainly put on a show for us.

We then managed to get into the campsite in the national park at Marahau, again fairly basic amenities but we wanted to stay so we could walk the next day. We set off at 10 along the first part of the coastal path to Apple Tree Bay, where we had a break and a swim in the brilliant turquoise blue water, returning back across the beach for the last part of the walk as the tide was out. Absolutely stunning scenery, it's picture postcard perfect. Sorry we can't show you any good photos as they are on the main camera, but Google Abel Tasman National Park and see what it's like. Ladies of the book club start saving, this walk is a must for the future!

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Photos

Abel Tasman
Kayak Trip

Sea Lions
Spotted from the kayaks sunning themselves on the rocks

Abel Tasman Track
A view from the walking track

Comments

[Marie]

Hi, at last I'm up to date with your blog. Had a full study session this am and really enjoyed reading your journey! You now have me excited about NZ, what fantastic reviews and pics. It looks even more stunning than the West of Scotland! Lara Lor-Van looks great fun and definitely the way to see the country. Continue the fun and enjoy! love M x

[Liz Steele]

so much for the cake what about the ice creams??
Fantastic to catch up with your travels. Makes me feel quite nostalgic and eager to return as we have cycled the same-ish route twice in our youth!! Camper van looks great and glad that there are alternatives to the more energetic activities such as bungee jumping. Keep on enjoying yourselves and take care. Liz xxx