Wilsons Abel Tasman
Wilsons Abel Tasman
4.5
Boat ToursWalking ToursEco ToursNature & Wildlife ToursKayaking & Canoeing
7:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
7:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
7:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
7:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
7:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
7:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
7:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
7:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Full view
About
Vista Cruise, Water Taxi, Walk, Sea Kayak and Beachfront Lodges in Abel Tasman National Park. Guided and self-guided Combinations to suit you, year-round. A family business welcoming visitors since 1841! Options from 2 hours to 5 days. Overnight at Torrent Bay Lodge or Meadowbank Homestead – Awaroa on the beachfront within Park boundaries. Ensuite accommodation, fine food, no heavy packs to carry. Travel with multiple NZ Tourism Award winners. Let us take care of the details so you can switch off and enjoy. Relax! Life just seems better here.
Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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Wilsons Abel Tasman
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4.5
1,125 reviews
Excellent
882
Very good
161
Average
36
Poor
31
Terrible
15
traveller#01
London, UK195 contributions
Nov 2019
We decided to go on the Split Apple Kayak, Seals and Walk trip in November with Wilsons. With many options on their website it was a bit confusing however I was looking for an option with some adventure, and kayaking seemed the thing to do in Abel Tasman, as well as an enjoyable trek.
We drove down from Nelson in the morning and checked in. We were able to leave most of our things in the car and take the essentials, with a dry bag on the kayak. We had two guides, one who seemed new at the time, and got kitted up with some initial induction then headed out on the water. The start of our kayaking was towards Split Apple Rock, but we were warned of the winds that day. The water got relatively choppy further out so we had to abandon the journey out and kayak in the local vicinity, which was still good fun. With a shorter kayak, this ended about an hour early which was a sensible decision as there was no point kayaking around any longer.
We were grateful to have the extra time to change clothes and have lunch, walking up and down the coast after food. We took a packed lunch with us which we enjoyed on the picnic tables.
At about 1pm we boarded our boat to take us to Tonga Quarry for our self guided walk. The staff on board were helpful for advice of which route to take etc and we temporarily stopped at Split Apple Rock and by the seals on the way for photos, which we missed during the kayak, with the crew pointing them out and giving interesting facts.
After about a 45min journey we disembarked at Tonga Quarry and followed the single path on our trek. With one route it was pretty much impossible to get lost. The first half to two-thirds of the walk is predominantly through forest land which is enjoyable but with little in the way of views. After this you follow the upper path (as advised by the crew) and pass by two lovely waterfalls and eventually bark bay. The final walk onwards to Medlands Beach is probably the most stunning with the view of Bark Bay in the background.
We arrived at Medlands beach approximately an hour before the boat, despite taking it very easy on the walk with plenty of stops, and enjoyed a rest and nap on the bench.
The boat back arrived pretty much on time and took us back to Kaiteriteri to end a thoroughly enjoyable day with some fantastic photos to show for it
We drove down from Nelson in the morning and checked in. We were able to leave most of our things in the car and take the essentials, with a dry bag on the kayak. We had two guides, one who seemed new at the time, and got kitted up with some initial induction then headed out on the water. The start of our kayaking was towards Split Apple Rock, but we were warned of the winds that day. The water got relatively choppy further out so we had to abandon the journey out and kayak in the local vicinity, which was still good fun. With a shorter kayak, this ended about an hour early which was a sensible decision as there was no point kayaking around any longer.
We were grateful to have the extra time to change clothes and have lunch, walking up and down the coast after food. We took a packed lunch with us which we enjoyed on the picnic tables.
At about 1pm we boarded our boat to take us to Tonga Quarry for our self guided walk. The staff on board were helpful for advice of which route to take etc and we temporarily stopped at Split Apple Rock and by the seals on the way for photos, which we missed during the kayak, with the crew pointing them out and giving interesting facts.
After about a 45min journey we disembarked at Tonga Quarry and followed the single path on our trek. With one route it was pretty much impossible to get lost. The first half to two-thirds of the walk is predominantly through forest land which is enjoyable but with little in the way of views. After this you follow the upper path (as advised by the crew) and pass by two lovely waterfalls and eventually bark bay. The final walk onwards to Medlands Beach is probably the most stunning with the view of Bark Bay in the background.
We arrived at Medlands beach approximately an hour before the boat, despite taking it very easy on the walk with plenty of stops, and enjoyed a rest and nap on the bench.
The boat back arrived pretty much on time and took us back to Kaiteriteri to end a thoroughly enjoyable day with some fantastic photos to show for it
Written 6 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your detailed review. Looks like you chose the best option for you from our large range.
Written 7 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hannah
81 contributions
Feb 2020
It was a fun day. Bring a jacket and something to cover up. It was hot on the shore and cooled off as you are on the boat for a lot of the trip. We did the Great Day Out Cruise Walk Adventure and it was the boat ride, a picnic lunch, and a hike through the woods down to a sandy beach. Recommend arriving early and being down by the water when the boat arrives to get the best seats on board.
Written 18 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to review us, and your helpful advice to our visitors.
Written 18 October 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
DayTrip21682920588
12 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
Bought a 3 day explorer pass with Wilsons which gave us unlimited boat travel for 3 days over a 7 day period, great value. We did the tracks from Apple tree bay to Anchorage bay day 1, Medlands Bay to Anchorage bay day 2 and Awaroa bay to Medlands bay day 3. Staff were excellent and very friendly. We were easily able to alter our bookings as required. Excellent value for money. Highly recommended!
Written 12 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you. We'll pass your feedback to the crew.
Written 13 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
annemaree2015
yogyakarta40 contributions
Nov 2021 • Friends
I am taking the unusual step of writing a review, while not having ultimately been able to join Wilson's 5 day Abel Tasman tour (which others had highly recommended to us) due to COVID restrictions. I did think their customer service warranted comment anyway.
I spoke to a number of people from the company in the course of investigating options, booking and changing bookings in the hope of getting out of Australia to join the trek.
People at Wilson's were invariably friendly, flexible and informative on the phone and in email communications -which were timely, detailed and personalized. While there were many others changing arrangements at the time due to the shifting COVID picture, they responded in a way geared to our personal needs - which were not necessarily the company's interests for greatest certainly re sho could join and who could not. They were very quick in arranging return of our deposits due to COVID.
All good to pass on, I felt, in these tough times for travel.
I spoke to a number of people from the company in the course of investigating options, booking and changing bookings in the hope of getting out of Australia to join the trek.
People at Wilson's were invariably friendly, flexible and informative on the phone and in email communications -which were timely, detailed and personalized. While there were many others changing arrangements at the time due to the shifting COVID picture, they responded in a way geared to our personal needs - which were not necessarily the company's interests for greatest certainly re sho could join and who could not. They were very quick in arranging return of our deposits due to COVID.
All good to pass on, I felt, in these tough times for travel.
Written 25 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your support in these difficult times. We do hope you have the opportunity to visit in the future.
Written 14 February 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Geoff Pearson
2 contributions
Jan 2023
The whole experience was a seamless package with great kiwi guides in Liana Hazel & Doc. The excellent food and friendly hosts at the lodges brought out the best in their guests in what was sometimes uncomfortable weather. The hikes were well planned and achievable but the kayaking was spectacular. The Boat trips were surprisingly pleasant, and we loved the good coffee. Although the lunches had rather stodgy buns and green tart apples they were also more than adequate & filling. All the Meals were absolutely fabulous but our favourite meals (though the steak at the end was very good) it was the unique flavours and use of cullenary toppings that gave Michelle the Top Chef award. I would have really enjoyed a mussell and pipi hotpot or chowder one night to show off & share our good quality NZ seafood to the other visitors as well. Axel the bus driver needs commending on his great driving skills on what was often narrow wet roads and his awesome baggage handling skills ...NO Bag left behind....Thankyou for a great break away from our ROCKUP business... we will definitely recommend Wilsons as a great NZ Outdoor Specialist Business.
Written 11 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for mentioning all of the team who work together to make your trip safe and enjoyable. Food is always controversial. Our chefs work so hard to please everyone but personal tastes and seasonal supply issues mean this is not always possible.
Written 1 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
296Tamerton
Whanganui, New Zealand17 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
We were a couple with minimal walking experience and opted for a guided three day trek. Wilson’s were professional in all aspects providing a seamless and quality service. The lodges and food were of a high standard. The park itself simply stunning. What made the trip was the relaxed yet vigilant approach of our walking guide Phil who constantly added to the experience by pointing out items of interest and providing snippets of history. The absolute highlight was seeing a Kaka doing its thing in the bush as we passed by.
This was a great introduction to multi day walking.
This was a great introduction to multi day walking.
Written 2 April 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you. We're glad you enjoyed the guided experience.
Written 24 May 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Adventurer444610
1 contribution
Feb 2021
We booked a 3 day tour with this company. My husband got very ill and had to be hospitalised for 4 days and then a further 1 day and another 2 days. It meant we were within the 9 day no refund cancellation period so have received no refund at all of the $2700. I feel they should have at least had some compassion. The reply I was first given was an email that should have gone to another group who received $1000 due to an "unsafe" experience. We have been offered a 10% discount if we rebook - that is laughable since they already have $2700 for nothing.
Marie G
Marie G
Written 14 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
As explained in private correspondence with you, we are not unsympathetic but are a small company that simply cannot afford to underwrite insurance for holidays. We understand the trauma that illness causes, but unfortunately these events are very common. This is why we clearly state in our terms and conditions, and also make it very clear in all correspondence, that you should buy insurance on any high value domestic holiday. With your venting, you have misrepresented the other group’s communication to the point of slander. I offered you both a discount of 30%.
Written 21 October 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Penelope
52 contributions
Jan 2020 • Solo
Office staff: The interactions with Wilson’s office staff is superb. They are on it and know what they are doing! The office staff gets five stars. Mike, the bus driver, who picked us up and dropped us off at our locations (and did pick up to and from the airport) also very professional and friendly — top notch — nothing to be changed for these interactions!
Overall the trip was memorable; and, I would do it again as well as would recommend this to others. It is a truly amazing experience.
Lodges: The lodges are comfortable and the rooms and bathrooms are clean. If you have long hair, or a lot of it like me, you may need your own shampoo and conditioner. What’s provided won’t work for us gals. The food is really good, and the staff is super nice. Packed lunches are easy and do the trick. You’ll be hungry on day 2 — so, pack more than you think you’ll eat.
Kayaking: I was told by others who’ve done this trip that when you’re solo — you’re paired with a guide. Or, paired with an appropriate partner. This isn’t always the case and wasn’t for me. So, it was a deflation of expectation.
I was paired with an elderly 80-year-old woman who was very timid in the wind and waves. It was distracting for me and also to another couple in the group who discussed it with me after the day — because they were worried about her while out on the water (she was screaming a little and really worried on the boat), I felt I was coaching her and trying to calm her down — which, detracted from the experience for all of us. I did discuss this with one of the guides that evening — and, this was remedied the next morning (wish it would have been handled that night so I could have had less anxiety before bed). I was anxious to have a repeat of the day prior on a way longer stretch of water.
It was uncomfortable and wasn’t exactly pleasant to have to assert myself in this manner and to have to speak up for myself. It felt like the guides on our trip were a little unseasoned when it related to these types of “uncomfortable” conversations or situations. There should be a set of principles for situations such as these and the guides should have mixed the partners around or they should have been in double boats matched with the solos — not in singles. It seemed to me they were more interested in having fun than doing their duties the first day. The guides drifted off on the water and paddled together — and, it felt like a club of two with the rest of us just kind of on our own. Me with a timid person — it’s their job to be within the pack with us, not having a social club together. I wouldn’t have said anything but it really bothered another couple as well; and, so I’m mentioning here so it is remedied in the future and so when you do this trip you speak up out of the gate if you’re coming solo on this trip.
The second day was much better, the people were mixed around and the guides stayed more with the group. So, of course it was a better over all day for all. We were all more relaxed.
Next time I’ll bring a friend or partner — so, it should be a non-issue — but, if you’re coming alone do yourself a favor and get the expectations set in advance with what you want and what is right for you.
Enjoy it — it’s great!
Overall the trip was memorable; and, I would do it again as well as would recommend this to others. It is a truly amazing experience.
Lodges: The lodges are comfortable and the rooms and bathrooms are clean. If you have long hair, or a lot of it like me, you may need your own shampoo and conditioner. What’s provided won’t work for us gals. The food is really good, and the staff is super nice. Packed lunches are easy and do the trick. You’ll be hungry on day 2 — so, pack more than you think you’ll eat.
Kayaking: I was told by others who’ve done this trip that when you’re solo — you’re paired with a guide. Or, paired with an appropriate partner. This isn’t always the case and wasn’t for me. So, it was a deflation of expectation.
I was paired with an elderly 80-year-old woman who was very timid in the wind and waves. It was distracting for me and also to another couple in the group who discussed it with me after the day — because they were worried about her while out on the water (she was screaming a little and really worried on the boat), I felt I was coaching her and trying to calm her down — which, detracted from the experience for all of us. I did discuss this with one of the guides that evening — and, this was remedied the next morning (wish it would have been handled that night so I could have had less anxiety before bed). I was anxious to have a repeat of the day prior on a way longer stretch of water.
It was uncomfortable and wasn’t exactly pleasant to have to assert myself in this manner and to have to speak up for myself. It felt like the guides on our trip were a little unseasoned when it related to these types of “uncomfortable” conversations or situations. There should be a set of principles for situations such as these and the guides should have mixed the partners around or they should have been in double boats matched with the solos — not in singles. It seemed to me they were more interested in having fun than doing their duties the first day. The guides drifted off on the water and paddled together — and, it felt like a club of two with the rest of us just kind of on our own. Me with a timid person — it’s their job to be within the pack with us, not having a social club together. I wouldn’t have said anything but it really bothered another couple as well; and, so I’m mentioning here so it is remedied in the future and so when you do this trip you speak up out of the gate if you’re coming solo on this trip.
The second day was much better, the people were mixed around and the guides stayed more with the group. So, of course it was a better over all day for all. We were all more relaxed.
Next time I’ll bring a friend or partner — so, it should be a non-issue — but, if you’re coming alone do yourself a favor and get the expectations set in advance with what you want and what is right for you.
Enjoy it — it’s great!
Written 23 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for the very positive review for your trip overall. Soaps and shampoos at our lodges are selected to have low impact on the environment, and the bio-active flora of our on-site waste water treatment systems.
Double kayaks are often called divorce boats, so coupling with a friend doesn't guarantee the teamwork and communication skills required. The guides, based on over 20 years of experience guiding in 4 continents, make assessment of abilities. Although your new companion was animated at times, she not only enjoyed the first day with you but engaged fully the next day with other paddling partners. We ask our guides to provide a genuine experience, providing at the end of the day a sense fun while engaging with the environment with the reassurance of safety without smothering, allowing novice kayakers to build confidence and ability irrespective of age.
We hope to welcome you back, either solo or with a companion.
Written 13 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Notable Tours NZ
Wellington, New Zealand57 contributions
May 2022
Notable Tours took a group of 40 out on a half-day cruise from Kaiteriteri in May 2022 - utterly breathtaking. Typically beautiful late Summer weather meant a smooth trip for our older clients, with excellent informative commentary from the skipper as we passed places of note. At short notice the company organised a wonderful BBQ lunch for us at their Torrent Bay Lodge which was stunning. Our group were all sorry to disembark and raving about the experience. Great communication in the build up and organisational stage, Top marks.
Written 21 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for reviewing us. It was a delight to host you at Torrent Bay Lodge.
Written 12 July 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
G-and-C NewZealand
New Zealand4 contributions
Jan 2021
Wilsons proved to be a very reliable and efficient tour company. Our sea-kayak tour in the morning was a highlight, particularly with some unusual summer sea-fog rolling in that morning. Then we took a cruise out to Anchorage. If you are feeling at all active, the Pitt Head Loop track is really nice and not too steep. Then stop for a dip at the beautiful Te Pukatea Bay on the way back down. Only downside was that we felt a bit rushed to get back to the boat after our hike. Perhaps allowing a slightly later return time for those out hiking would have been ideal? But of course understandably it has to run to a timetable, and our trip was otherwise excellent.
Written 15 February 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review. We work hard on developing schedules so visitors can include as much of our wonderful coast as possible. Not enough time is a common remark. We hope you can come back and spend more time with us.
Written 1 March 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We are planning to book a date in Nov. I am able to walk 2 miles or so but not scramble over rocks. What is our best choice for seeing as much of the park as possible? We are able to kayak in a two person kayak. Thanks.
Written 3 October 2018
You can take a trail that's out and back and go only as far as you'd like
Written 23 November 2018
Estefania R
Downey, California
Hi!
How quick are email responses? I need to book a water taxi but do not have phone service here in NZ so I emailed them.
Is there a different option I can do online?
Thanks!
Written 10 February 2018
Hi Estefania, thank you for reaching out to us. All our emails have been answered so without your email address I can't check what happened to your inquiry. All our trips can be booked online. Please email us again if you have further inquiries and I will ensure it is answered immediately if you use your Trip Advisor name, so I can trace it.
Written 11 February 2018
Estefania R
Downey, California
Hi!
How quick are email responses? I need to book a water taxi but do not have phone service here in NZ so I emailed them.
Is there a different option I can do online?
Thanks!
Written 10 February 2018
Try emailing the I-Site information centre at Nelson or Motueka. I found staff very helpful at the Nelson centre.
Written 18 February 2018
Hi. We are booked for the 18th March. The trip says it includes beaches, bays and seals and guided kayaking with lunch. Just wondering do I have to do the kayaking or can I opt out of that bit? My husband will definitely want to do all. Thanks, Phil and John Regan
Written 11 March 2017
Hi there, it is possible for one to kayak and the other to walk, cruise or relax on the beach. Please email us or call us with your booking number to discuss all the options
Written 11 March 2017
jeyates
Mountain View, California
Does Wilsons provide a bus service from Nelson to Kaiteriteri?
Written 9 March 2017
For day trips, we use Abel Tasman Coachlines. Overnight, Lodge-based trips include transport on our own coach from Nelson.
Written 9 March 2017
There are photos on the website. Hover over A Day in the headings along the top of the home page to find the page for Picnic Lunches.
Written 5 March 2017
Are there wifi facilities in the lodges?
Written 4 March 2017
Yes, there is access via Project Janszoon's network, for a nominal fee. You will get details at the Lodges.
Written 5 March 2017
I am going on the 3 day kayak and walk trek very soon... What type of clothing did you wear? We have been told to bring 2 sets of thermals ? is it that cold at the moment
Any tips please re what to wear
Written 4 January 2017
Two weeks ago we had warm weather with some sunshine and one day of rain. It did get cool at night but not thermals weather. I was walking in shorts and a rain jacket. In the kayaks it can get cold and windy so the suggested thermals may help as they keep you warm and they dry quickly.
Written 6 January 2017
I have another question...
On the split apple rock + walk tour do you ever run into seals : ) ?
Written 4 April 2016
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