Murchison is usually seen as a stopping point on the way to somewhere else – to Nelson or the West Coast. Our new life is about exploring the hidden magic of New Zealand in our new caravan. We have not picked it up yet, so a cabin it is this weekend as we explore Murchison. A River Runs Through it The Buller River thunders along this valley, nearby … [Read more...]
Kimi Ora – an Eco Resort
Just before the Abel Tasman National Park at the top of the South Island of New Zealand is a popular beach - Kaiteretere. And nestled into the bush above the beach is a hidden Gem - The Kimi Ora Eco Resort. We have the rare treat of staying in the Yurt at this Resort - something you can not book into, but is occasionally available - and we are here for 4 magical days. … [Read more...]
Walk and Kayak the Abel Tasman
Abel Tasman National Park is a the top of the South Island of New Zealand, and is one of New Zealand's Great Walks - renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and its world-famous coast track. It is not a hard walk - perfect for beginners and children, and those who do not enjoy 'extreme' tramping. Perhaps the best thing from my perspective as a non walker … [Read more...]
Golden Bay – off the beaten track in New Zealand
Nelson is at the top of the South Island, it is the gateway to the amazing Abel Tasman National Park. and the wonderful and productive hinterland of Tasman - great cycling here Northwest of Nelson is Golden Bay - a huge bay sheltered by the long arm of Farewell Spit. To get there you go over the Takaka Hill. It was many years after living in New Zealand before I drove … [Read more...]
Nelson and Abel Tasman
Our goal is to spend some time in the Abel Tasman National Park - but to do this, you need to go through Nelson, and why not enjoy it on the way! Nelson as a food bowl - in autumn the orchards dripping with apples, homegardens dripping with fruit, we were soon ladened down and are offered far more than we can carry, so sadly had to say no. … [Read more...]
Awaroa – Abel Tasman National Park
We had stayed overnight at Rowan Cottage in Motueka just one of the great Womens Travel Accommodation network. Today we are heading for Awaroa, a small settlement in the middle of the Abel Tasman National Park, where we have rented a bach (in NZ = cottage) for a few days. First stop the Aqua taxi - you can drive and then walk, but it is a LONG way, and most people move about … [Read more...]
Cycling Mapua and the Tasman Great Taste Cycleway
We are on our way to the Abel Tasman National Park, but we have some time to spare, so I googled Mapua cycle hire and found offers for cycling - you could combine a cycle hire with a ferry to Rabbit Island which sounds a perfect way to spend the day. … [Read more...]
Wild Footprints it is!
Helen Walker run's Wild Footprints in the Abel Tasman and organises Ultimate Women's Wild Weekends, here is how she started: That's it! 'Wild Footprint's' I shouted My students at the time must of thought me a little crazy. While they were feeling challenged trying to navigate their way through thick Marlborough bush, I was to them merrily wandering along like I was … [Read more...]
The Big Gay Out in Abel Tasman National Park
Love kayaking and walking and sunshine.... If you've been thinking of a holiday in New Zealand where you can connect with nature and enjoy the camaraderie of birds of a feather, this gay and lesbian retreat should be in your 2012 Diary. Craig Wilson of Wilsons Abel Tasman has designed an exclusive gay retreat on his slice of paradise on the South Island. His family company … [Read more...]
Sea Kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park
“Roughing it” without the suffering by Julie Paterson of Venus Adventures - Global trips for Women As the days begin to stretch before us again, rather than shrink into the dark, then it might be time to plan a little summer adventure for yourself. Nothing too strenuous, but one that will leave you with that satisfied buzz of having achieved something new. I bet those … [Read more...]