The Great Day Out
What to bring
What to bring (day trip)
We recommend a small day pack, with the following items:
- Extra clothing. New Zealand weather is renowned for providing four seasons in one day so quick-dry thermal fabrics are best
- Sun protection. A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential in all weather. We enjoy the highest number of sunshine hours in the country. Our clear skies with no pollution result in a very high risk of sunburn, even on cloudy days
- Insect repellent
- Waterproof jacket with hood
- Swimwear and towel (optional)
- Drinking water
- Lunch. If it has not been ordered the day before you travel, please bring your own
- Camera. Remember to check the batteries!
- Hand sanitiser. No hand wipes or paper tissues/towels please. They create litter and clog the toilet systems.
The coastal track is well formed and walking sticks are not necessary. However, if you have weak leg joints, or poor balance, you might prefer to bring them.
What to wear walking
We enjoy glorious weather, summer and winter. Temperatures can be crisp in the mornings and cool in late afternoon with summer sea breezes. Bring a warm layer of wool or polar fleece and a light rain jacket to ensure your comfort.
Wear quick-dry, loose fitting clothing. You are walking beside the sea, so might have to roll up trousers and remove shoes for short tidal crossings.
The coastal track is well formed and mostly shaded by native forest. The track comes down onto golden-sand beaches fringed by lush native forest and protected azure waters - ideal for swimming.
Not recommended: Cotton clothing (especially denim) is very heavy and cold if it gets wet. It takes a long time to dry. Thermal, quick-dry fabrics are best e.g. polypropylene, polarfleece, wool.
Lunch options
Picnic Lunches
For a delicious picnic lunch prepared for you and delivered to the boat, or to your kayak guide, please give us your order by 6 pm the night before your trip.
The menus below have vegetarian, vegan, gluten, nut and dairy-free options with similar ingredients, modified to suit special diets.
Classic picnic lunch (NZ$27 per person)
- Ploughman's Sandwich with salad and sliced beef (vegetarian option: roasted aubergine)
- Crisp Apple
- Vegetable Quiche
- Banana Bread Loaf (gluten/dairy free option: chocolate muffin)
- Whittaker's Chocolate Peanut Slab (vegan, gluten and dairy-free varieties available)
Lite picnic lunch (NZ$17 per person)
Standard or Vegetarian only
- Ploughman's Sandwich
- Crisp Apple
- Banana Bread Loaf
Onboard Menu
The Vista Cruise has a selection of hot and cold drinks (including beer and wine), ice creams, snacks and light meals. Click through to the Vista Cruise Menu.
Other Lunch Options
You are welcome to bring your own lunch. Takeaway food is available at the Kaiteriteri departure point. Please allow extra time to choose your lunch. The shop can be busy when boats are departing.
There is one public restaurant/cafe in the park at Awaroa Lodge, open during the summer months. Please book directly with them by phoning 03 528 8758.
Succulent Seafood Lodge-Based Barbecue
Available for groups of 10 to 26 people, click through for details of this very special lunch featuring local seafood (with vegetarian and no-seafood options)
Classic Kiwi Barbecue
Click here for details of barbecue lunches available in the park.