Culture and Cruise - Ko te Mauri
Join us for a private and unique cultural experience where you will be taken on a journey of connection through the māori world view. Embark on a shared journey traveling by waka as the Māori ancestors did.
Paddle along the beautiful Abel Tasman coastline from Kaiteriteri, past Toka Ngawhā (Split Apple Rock) stopping from time to time to hear the Māori history of the area. As manuhiri (visitors) you will interact with the coastline and feel a sense of connection with each other as you feel the collective energy of paddling together, and experience a deep connection to the coastline of Te Tai o Aorere (Tasman Bay).
Mid-morning you will be welcomed aboard your private catamaran by the friendly and experienced crew of Abel Tasman Charters to travel deeper into the park. Time to relax as we follow the granite and marble rock formations that fringe the headlands cloaked in regenerating native forest. Native wildlife is an essential part of the scenery of the Abel Tasman and no journey is complete without visiting the Tonga island marine reserve where cormorants –(houmea), gannets (tākapu) and little blue penguins (kororā ) dive for their dinner. Fur seals (kekeno) may be viewed lounging on the rocks before we head to a secluded bay for a delicious lunch aboard.
After lunch we cruise to the picturesque Te Pukatea Bay with the option of a 45-minute walk around the headland to take in the beautiful views and absorb the flora and fauna of the New Zealand forest. Learn some of the European history and the current steps being taken to protect the environment in the park. Alternatively, there is the option to swim or to just relax on board and take in the stunning scenery before we return to Stephens Bay at 4pm.
Included: waka (Māori double canoe), paddles, dry bags, camera bags, wetsuit booties, paddle jackets. Power catamaran charter with RIB tender, lifejackets, morning tea, lunch with local wine and beer, refreshments, kayaks, towels and sunscreen. Pick up and return to local accommodation. Private guided waka and guided boat trip aboard comfortable catamarans with flush toilets and changing areas.
Start time: 9 am at Kaiteriteri Beach for the waka – Transfer from accommodation - To be arranged.
**Split Apple Retreat guests: option to start and finish at Toka Ngawhā (Split Apple Rock) Beach
Duration: 1 day, up to 2-hour paddle segment, 5-hour boat segment. Paddle Distance: Approx 5 km, Guides assist with paddling.
Fitness level: A basic level of fitness is required.