Immerse yourself in an authentic cultural experience by paddling a Maori waka through some of the most sensational parts of New Zealand’s spectacular Abel Tasman National Park!
Inclusive, enjoyable and great for all ages, our haerenga (journey) includes an easy 2-hour return voyage along peaceful coastlines featuring golden sand beaches and vibrant native forest as we paddle together towards the iconic Toka Ngawhā, also known as Split Apple Rock.
Along the way we will share with you our knowledge of the beautiful Maori culture as you experience the empowerment that comes through working with a team. Our spoken blessings called karakia will provide spiritual protection for our voyage through this safe and stunning section of New Zealand.
Within Maori culture, the waka or canoe is considered a living expression of our tupuna (ancestors), who navigated the vast Pacific Ocean in similar vessels for thousands of years. The experience of this journey will connect you to this tradition as you learn about the tikanga (etiquette) associated with waka.
Truly a “must do” activity while visiting New Zealand!
Experience: Not necessary
Start/Finish Location: Kaiteriteri Boat Ramp, Sandy Bay Road, Kaiteriteri, Nelson.
Thank you so much Cedric, it was lovely to meet you both. I would love to try your cooking one day :)
Lots of fun learnt lot's highly recommend
Ngā mihi e te Whanau nō Te Whenua Moemoea. Thank you to the family from the land of dreaming :)
Wonderful experience! Paddling in this Waka was amazing. And the whole experience was incredible. It's not only a great way to discover Abel Tasman and paddle in a beautiful Waka but also truly learn about Maori traditions and culture. We definitely recommend this tour. Thank you so much Lee-Anne for sharing your knowledge and love of this region.
What a lovely family experience on the water which we enjoyed with our six year old boy. Lovely family run business, with a nice mixture of cultural and activity. Great way to experience NZ!
Copyright © 2024 Bookme Limited.
This award identifies a business with a high level of professionalism, a keen awareness of the impact it has on the environment and a commitment to a customer centric approach.
This award is evidence of a sophisticated tourism business that consistently exceeds visitor expectations. Their proactive leadership and management ensure the business's focus on continuously improving their economic, social and environmental performance to create genuine, constantly evolving and sustainable tourism experiences.
This award recognises the best sustainable tourism businesses in New Zealand. It denotes exceptional customer experiences at the heart of everything the company does. This business is leading the way in making the New Zealand tourism industry a world class sustainable visitor destination.
When you see the Qualmark logo, your activity of choice is endorsed by New Zealand Tourism's official quality assurance organisation and backed by leaders in the industry. It's your trusted guide to iconic activities and experiences that are awarded for their exceptionally high level of quality, safety and sustainability.
This item will be deleted immediately. You can't undo this action.
cedricl from United Kingdom wrote on 29 November 2018
Amazing experience!
Merci beaucoup Lee Anne What a special morning it was and great to learn and share some of your Maori culture. Dawn also really enjoyed it and was really appreciating you took her fear of water away. We loved the company of Theresa and her family and all her Maori influences and knowledge. It is a peaceful, cultural, interesting and fun experience we truly recommend to everyone. Huge thanks again Mihi Koe Kia Ora Cédric et Dawn