abel tasman great walk experience

Located at the southern end of New Zealand’s North Island, the Lonely Planet names Wellington as “the coolest little capital in the world”.

As well as being a ‘cool little capital’ and the seat of government, Wellington is compact and easy to get around, locals often say you can walk anywhere in under 30 minutes. On most visitors list of places to visit is the National Museum, also known as Te Papa, meaning ‘our place’; one of the world’s best interactive museums. A ride on the city’s cable car takes you up the hill to Kelburn and the city’s botanical gardens, from here you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views over the city and across the sea.

Wellington is well known as the country’s culinary capital, home to some of the New Zealand’s best award-winning restaurants, great bars and some wonderfully quirky cafes, great food trucks, day and night markets. Almost everything about Wellington, the mix of history, culture and creative energy epitomise the diversity, colour and inclusiveness of this city surrounded by water and hills.

The oldest city on New Zealand’s South Island, Nelson, lies on the eastern shore of Tasman Bay. With more than 2500 hours of sunshine a year, it is also considered the country’s sunniest city and is a perfect setting in which to enjoy an array of adventure and leisure activities – biking, horse trekking, rock climbing, wine-tasting at local estates, or simply enjoying the golden beaches and superb views of the Tasman Bay. 

Located on New Zealand’s South Island, the Abel Tasman National Park is known for its beautiful white-sand beaches lapped by crystal-clear turquoise waters. The incredibly scenic, unspoilt landscapes make the park a popular destination with locals and tourists alike. It is home to an array of wildlife including a variety of birdlife, bottlenose dolphins, seals and the Little Blue Penguin, the smallest of the species. Hop on a scenic boat tour, enjoy fantastic hikes, or camp under the star-studded night sky. Other popular activities include swimming, snorkelling, as well as kayaking, which is said to be the best way to discover the park’s spectacular natural treasures. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike along one of New Zealand’s ‘Great Walks’, the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, traversing rugged headlands, lush forests and pristine beaches.

Located on New Zealand’s South Island, the Abel Tasman National Park is known for its beautiful white-sand beaches lapped by crystal-clear turquoise waters. The incredibly scenic, unspoilt landscapes make the park a popular destination with locals and tourists alike. It is home to an array of wildlife including a variety of birdlife, bottlenose dolphins, seals and the Little Blue Penguin, the smallest of the species. Hop on a scenic boat tour, enjoy fantastic hikes, or camp under the star-studded night sky. Other popular activities include swimming, snorkelling, as well as kayaking, which is said to be the best way to discover the park’s spectacular natural treasures. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike along one of New Zealand’s ‘Great Walks’, the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, traversing rugged headlands, lush forests and pristine beaches.

Along the Maruia River on New Zealand’s South Island, Maruia lies within a broad valley framed by mountain ranges of the Southern Alps. Pastures and forested hills stretch across a landscape shaped by glacial rivers, where quiet rural roads wind through farmland and pockets of native beech forest. The clear river attracts anglers, while walkers explore tracks through nearby conservation land that lead to elevated viewpoints and open river terraces. A short drive away, the geothermal pools of Maruia Springs provide mineral bathing beside the river, contrasting with the valley’s cool mountain air. Travellers crossing the Southern Alps often pause here to hike, fish, or simply follow the valley’s winding road through open countryside.

Situated on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, the vibrant city of Christchurch is the largest city on the island. Dubbed the 'Garden City', it is known for its many lush green spaces and possesses a multicultural charm with an added dash of Victorian flair.

The city offers a fabulous array of activities, including punting down the Avon River, helicopter tours, hot air ballooning, whale and dolphin watching. Enjoy a stroll around the beautifully sculptured parks, visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and browse numerous art galleries.