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3 Day Self-Guided Walk

What to bring

What to pack (self-guided)

Footwear

  • Good sports/hiking shoes.
  • Shoes for tidal crossings, fixed at the heel
  • Light shoes or slippers to wear at the lodges
  • Walking poles are recommended for stability on uphill and downhill sections (not supplied or available to hire at our office)

Clothing
Quick-dry and thermal fibres are recommended for walking and kayaking. Avoid cotton as it takes a long time to dry. Layers are the key to comfort:

  • Thermal layer close to your skin. In the cooler months (Apr - Oct), bring extra thermal layers and socks
  • Quick-dry shorts and t-shirts
  • Warm wool or polarfleece layer
  • Waterproof jacket with hood (disposable rain coats are for sale at our offices)

Other essentials

  • Download Wilsons Abel Tasman App then download the appropriate trip for comprehensive track notes and maps. Go to the Apple Store (for i-Phones) or Google Play Store (Android phones).
  • Personal first-aid kit with plasters, blister prevention and antiseptic.
  • Cellphone in case of emergency but be aware that cellphone reception quality varies through the Park. Click through to WiFi Internet and Cellphone Access for details.
  • Re-usable water bottle to be filled at our office and lodges
  • Insect repellent, sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses
  • Hand sanitiser (please no tissues or hand wipes as they add to litter to the park)
  • Phone/Camera with charger and memory card
  • Swimwear and beach towel (optional)
  • Credit Card for Wifi access. In-house bar takes credit card or Eftpos (no cash).
  • Essential personal medication must be carried with you each day

Overnight gear                                                                                     

  • Casual evening clothes and light footwear
  • Underwear, including socks and sleepwear
  • Personal toiletries
  • Flashlight/torch (on rare occasions, our generated electricity can fail)
  • Sleep apnoea machines and battery chargers can be run on our generated electricity
  • Cellphone reception varies depending on your provider.

Please do not bring valuable items or travel documents. There is safe storage at our Motueka office.

The Project Janszoon App is a useful app for more background information and places of interest in the park. It's free! Go to the Project Janszoon website.

Down load your packing list (PDF file)

Included in multiday trips

As well as a wonderful holiday experience with skilled, friendly hosts, chefs and boat crew, your trip includes:

  • all meals from lunch on your first day to lunch on the last day of your trip. Our innovative wilderness menus are sourced from environmentally responsible providers. Enjoy full cooked and continental breakfasts, picnic lunches and three course dinners
  • fresh fruit, hot drinks, water, and a range of snack foods are available throughout the day
  • all linen (bedding and towels) at the lodges
  • waterproof plastic liners for bags
  • 30 litre daypacks are available to borrow
  • 40 litre lodge luggage bag (47x35x25cm) is yours to keep. Click here for image and dimensions.
  • Free Wifi at our lodges
Download Track Notes

Download the Wilsons Abel Tasman App, then download track notes relevant for your trip.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play

Note, there is no free Wifi at Kaiteriteri and limited access in the national park, so download track notes before you leave for your trip.

Printed track notes are available at our office for self-guided multiday trips.

Recommended Footwear

WE RECOMMEND FOR WALKING:
Comfortable walking shoes or sports sandals. Heavy hiking boots are not necessary on the well-formed coastal track. You can wear them if you prefer.

                 

 

WE RECOMMEND FOR TIDAL CROSSINGS
Light shoes with fixed heel for walking on shells, rock and sand for short distances. They will get wet. There is time to change into walking shoes after tidal crossing.

                  

 


NOT RECOMMENDED
Slides, jandals, flip-flops etc.

 

Do I need walking poles?

Walking poles are recommended for stability on uphill and downhill sections.They assist with balance, and relieve pressure on knee and ankle joints.

Damage caused by recent storms is still under repair, so some short sections are not up to Great Walk standard.