With two big islands, a multitude of smaller islands and miles of pristine coastline, rugged mountain ranges and lots of water its not hard to see how New Zealand is so popular for both Seakayaking and whitewater paddling. Several hotspots lend themselves well to seakayaking and have operators there with both guided and in some places freedom rentals.

Due to it's sheltered coastline the Able Tasman National Park has conditions to please most paddlers. The scenery is beautiful both on land and along the coastline (we're talking clear water, stunning beaches, rocky green islands and so much wildlife you have to be careful where you put your paddle) , the weather is good and more importantly reliable and you've got a good chance of spotting some marine life.

If you like to use your legs as well as your arms you can spend some time on land: the Able Tasman has some great hiking trails and you can paddle in and walk out, a three day round trip. Paddling or walking are the only way to get to some of these remote spots, so even though it's busy in season you still get a chance to feel like an explorer (but not quite a discoverer of new lands.).

If you like getting out in the great outdoors you can camp on sandy beaches, but if you prefer something a little bit more comfortable or even more luxurious there are also floating units and five star lodges to put your head down in. If you've never been sea kayaking before don't worry - there are plenty of great guided services and the water is warm, calm and clear.

Written by  Hedley Wilton.

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Family friendly kayaking in the Able Tasman

One of the most striking elements of the Lord of the Rings film trilogy was the stunning back drop, but seeing it on the big screen is nothing compared to the sight of the big looming mountains and the amazing colours that the New Zealand landscape has to offer in the flesh. Kayaking through the Abel Tasman National Park lets you and your family discover the secret nooks and crannies hidden away from the pedestrian’s view. You’ll explore lagoons, paddle with seals and watch out for little blue penguins. You don’t have to spend the whole time on the water, you can hop out of the kayak for an energetic hike, stop off to visit a Maori village or just to take a break and stretch out on a sandy beach. This terrain is suitable for beginners, but it’s probably better for a teenage brood. You can plan bush walks around your paddling to the to see some of the amazing wildlife the region has to offer. You can take a tour where you'll get the 'pampered camping' treatment of meals cooked and tents raised or you can go off on your own.

 

Review posted 9th May 2008 by Alessia Horwich.

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