Abel Tasman National Park

For my first proper overnight sea kayaking adventure I teamed up with Lena, who I had met the previous week on the Queen Charlotte Track. The hire companies do not allow solo freedom hires and neither of us fancied a giuded tour.

Day 1 Kaiteriteri to Te Pukatea Bay

A secluded beach, Abel Tasman National Park

Te Pukatea Bay

After spending a while packing our double kayak with all our camping gear and food for 2 days we were reading to go. Before we could disappear with several thousand dollars worth of boat we had to prove that we could paddle it. Under the rather annoying giudance of our rad instructor we made our way past the impressive Apple Rock before heading off on our own.

We spent the morning swimming off of deserted beaches, watching the birdlife and admiring the rock formations of the national park.

After lunch, and with a northerly wind blowing in we started to make our way around the Mad Mile, the most exposed section of the trip. Our paddling skills and stamina were to put to the test in increasing large seas. From the rear seat it was impressive to sea our huge double kayak slamming down the waves but at all times it felt stable.

Three quarters of the way round the Mad Mile we turned into the perfectly sheltered Te Pukayea Bay - our camp for the night. We were immediately pleased that we had chosen to stay there rather than one of the busier beaches frequented by the giuded tours and hikers.

A wonderfully tranquil evening was spent setting up camp, cooking and exploring the surrounding cliffs. Our only company at the campsite was an owl.

Day 2 Te Pukatea Bay to Onetuhutui

More crazy rocks

We had been by the park ranger of a forecast storm for this afternoon. With this in mind we broke camp early and got on our way.

First task was rounding Pitt Head, the last section of the Mad Mile. This was a much easier proposition in lighter winds today.

More exploring coastal rocks before we set out for Pinnacle and Tonga Islands to see the basking seals.

On our final paddle across to Onetuhutui beach the wind dropped completely, the sea was like glass and it started to gently rain. Once out the kayak it was amazing how quickly you got cold, so we changed into dry clothes, put a brew on and waited for the water taxi back to Kaiteriteri.

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