Waka, Whenua & Art

Abel Tasman National Park, NZ
10 Hours

Experience Māori culture through movement, place, and creativity. Journey by traditional waka, uncover the true meaning of whenua at the sacred Riuwaka Resurgence, and explore tradition & contemporary Māori art with local artists at Tātou Studio. A deeply personal introduction to the people and stories of Te Tauihu.

Tour Type
Private tour with shared waka (private waka also available)
Start-End Time
7:30 AM - 4 :30 PM
Inclusions
Accommodation, transfers, Waka excursion, lunch, snacks, refreshments, guided experience

Tour Type

Private

Tour Length

10 Hours

Start-End Time

7:30 AM - 4 :30 PM

Hike Distance

3-6 km

Walking Time

Inclusions

Accommodation, transfers, Waka excursion, lunch, snacks, refreshments, guided experience

Tailored As

Notes

Tour

overview:

Begin your day in Kaiteriteri, gateway to Abel Tasman National Park, where you’ll be welcomed for a morning waka experience. Guided by skilled kaihoe (paddlers), you’ll learn to mihi (introduce yourself), explore the deep connections local iwi hold with this coastline, and gain insight into the cultural significance of voyaging by waka - an experience that binds people to land, sea, and each other.

Returning to the beach, relax over a coastal lunch before travelling inland to the Riuwaka Resurgence, where crystal-clear river waters emerge from deep within Takaka Hill. Revered as a highly sacred site for local iwi, this is a place to discover the true meaning of whenua; not simply the land beneath your feet, but the profound connection between people, ancestry, identity, and the natural world.

Our final visit takes you to Tātou Studio, a vibrant Māori creative workspace dedicated to the preservation and teaching  of authentic Māori art. Spend time with artist Kahu Paki Paki, whose passion and storytelling bring culture, symbolism, and spiritual depth vividly to life.

This immersive journey weaves together waka, whenua, and art - an invitation to experience Te Ao Māori with authenticity, reverence, and heart.

Highlights:
3-hour traditional waka (Māori canoe) journey to Abel Tasman National Park
Learn Te Reo greetings, Tikanga Māori customs, and rongoā medicinal plant uses
Discover Māori mythology and colonial history of Te Tau Ihu
Visit four of New Zealand's most beautiful beaches by waka, boat, and foot
Inclusive team experience with karakia blessings opening and closing your voyage
Cultural immersion combining water, land exploration, and authentic Māori traditions
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Real

stories

from travellers

Fantastic and magical day in Abel!

It was such a fantastic and most beautiful day in Abel. Alan is the most funny and informative guide I ever had! I had a wonderful time hiking and taking the cruise with this small group day trip from Nelson. Highly recommend if you are a solo traveller like me.

Laura Decker

An absolute must do in Nelson

From start to finish this was an absolutely brilliant experience that we would highly
recommend to anyone who is considering it. Not just a wine tour but a trip around the local area and waterfront. Our driver, Sonia was a wealth of knowledge about the area and the vineyards we visited. Very friendly, easy going and nothing was a problem. Small groups are always the best way to go.

Terry R

Great day in Golden Bay

This is a very valuable excursion because it gives you a taste of lots of the elements that define this region. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who was refreshingly
enthusiastic and accommodating.

Sarah H

If there is one tour you should go on while in Nelson, this is it!

The full day Abel Tasman cruise and hike. Personalised, knowledgeable, and enjoyable. From the moment of pick-up, to cruising the Abel Tasman coast, then a hike to other beaches - learning about the plants and trees, a stop for a fabulous lunch, and a cruise and
drive back. All wrapped up with a terrific guide and host! Thank you Wayne. Truly 5-star!! Outstanding day. Highly recommend

Tony M

Zane was the ideal guide for our day trip exploring this area rich with vineyards, art galleries and nature at its best. Informative and personable, we have every confidence in this business and all they offer.

Margot
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