Touring Tasman’s treasures
Underground, overground – you don’t have to be a womble to see some of the best that the NelsonTasman region has to offer, just someone happy to be escorted around by enthusiastic locals.
The seven-hour Tasman Treasures Scenic Tour is one of Abel Tasman Eco Tours’ three options, and it includes high, long views, beautiful beaches and dramatically-lit caves.
Leaving from the busy little seaside town of Ma¯ra¯hau, the van visits other beaches that are arguably even more gorgeous. Kaiteriteri has been a family holiday favourite for generations and, looking down on it from the headland to its north, it’s obvious why.
Further along the road that winds through the bush, though, there’s a track leading down to one that is becoming even more famous, through social media. Split Apple Rock is the photogenic highlight of Towers Bay, which is already strikingly lovely, it’s gold streaked with black iron sand and dotted with penguin footprints.
Why go?
Because, believe it or not, it’s not all about the beaches here. Tackling Ta¯kaka Hill’s innumerable corners and bends you get to where there are extensive views and pleasingly sculpted ribs of marble sticking out of the ground, and an entrance to hidden treasures. A 45-minute guided tour through Ngarua Caves brings geology, stories, jokes, moa bones 28 thousand years old, stalactites and stalagmites. Climbing back out into the bright colours and fresh air is dazzling; and lunch in the cafe is just what’s needed.
There are more treats to come. At Harwoods Hole, there’s a Switzerland-like view over a valley with a secret: the R¯ıwaka Resurgence. Here, the clearest, bluest, coldest water you can imagine pours out of the hillside, filtered through marble to be marvellously pure and, unsurprisingly, sacred to Ma¯ori.
Insider tip
You could bring your own lunch, but the one provided is a delicious treat. The company will tailor the tour to suit you and your pick-up point.
On the way/nearby
To see the other, wetter, side of the Abel Tasman National Park, the company runs a popular Golden Future Boat Tour; plus there’s its Promised Land Walking Tour. Or, you could hang out in busy little Motueka: the Smoking Barrel’s doughnuts are famous and there are lots of other good things to eat at Toad Hall. There’s art and craft, a picturesque old shipwreck on the beach, and a Sunday market. The Saltwater Baths are neatly enclosed and as calm as a swimming pool.
How much?
The full-day tour costs $219 for adults, $140 children (3-15), with lunch an extra $18 each.
Best time to go
Choose lovely weather – pretty much standard in this bit of the country – for the views. The tours may not be available right through winter so check the website. abeltasmanecotours.co.nz