Abel Tasman Walk Highlights – 5 Days

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

FLAT TERRAIN

Whilst training for walking on flat and hard terrain, you should focus on building endurance and ensuring you can maintain a comfortable pace.

Start with regular walks on sidewalks, roads, or paved paths to get used to the surface. Maintain a proper posture and engage your core muscles to support your back, keeping a steady gait. Ensure that you have comfortable, supportive footwear with adequate cushioning. If endurance is important, consider incorporating low-impact cross-training activities like swimming or cycling into your routine.

AVAILABILITY OF ABEL TASMAN WALK

This trip is not available from the end of April until the start of October. We also suggest that you book January and February well in advance and bear in mind the area gets very crowded with holidaymakers.

The end of December until the end of March is considered high season. Please bear in mind there will be additional costs for the Christmas and New Year period (22nd December – 7th January).

Spring (October to December) and autumn (March to end of April) are excellent times to walk!

WALKING

This track is smooth, well-graded, with mostly gentle ascents and descents. This is as good as it gets. Walks are about 13 km a day allowing you to explore the many isolated beaches and potentially add on some of the optional walks we have suggested.

GETTING THERE AND AWAY

Flights to Nelson are available from all major New Zealand centres. From Nelson, you will enjoy a private transfer to the beginning of the Abel Tasman Track. If you choose to self-drive, the roads (coastal or inland) from Christchurch are excellent and offer ample opportunities to explore on the way. Your vehicle can be left safely at your accommodation in Marahau. See getting there and away for Queen Charlotte for other alternatives if you are considering doing both walks.

WEATHER

December through February is usually warm to hot with excellent swimming weather. But as mentioned please book well in advance for January and February due to the summer school holidays. March through May and September to November is usually cooler, with long sunny days, perfect for walking.

See the New Zealand Meteorological Service for information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For almost 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.