The first views of Golden Bay over a mix of mountains, valleys, bush clad hills and sea. Towards the eastern side of Golden Bay the road passes through a natural hole and along side amazing limestone formations to the Abel Tasman memorial lookout which is significant to Maori and the Dutch as well as New Zealand history. 

The first of the golden sand beaches are passed and then a mussel farm before entering Abel Tasman National Park. 

Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s smallest, renowned for its golden sand beaches, unmodified estuaries, sculptured granite cliffs and mild climate. Access is via Golden Bay on the only road within the park to Totaranui Beach where relics of early settler developments are obvious.
A gourmet kiwi picnic lunch will be enjoyed here adjacent to this vast sandy bay probably devoid of people. 

Exploring westwards, around beautiful estuaries and damp gullies where stunning vegetation survived early fires, across dry ridges with re-colonizing Manuka, Kanuka and Black Beech. Tui and Bellbirds are plentiful in this remote part of the park then oystercatchers, shags and paradise ducks are always seen on Anapai Bay, the most beautiful in the park. Granite rock stacks are a real feature on this beach which is ideal for relaxing sunbathing or swimming.

Highlights

1. Travel the only road through Abel Tasman National Park.
2. Stunning alpine then coastal views in route.
3. Diversity of landscapes.
4. Walking on golden sand.

Wine Tours, Eco Tours, Art tours Marlborough and Nelson New Zealand