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Bronte Country Estate, near NelsonShelbourne Villa, NelsonSea kayaking, Abel Tasman National ParkAbel Tasman National ParkStonefly Lodge, near Abel Tasman National ParkThe Resurgence, near Abel Tasman National ParkAbel Tasman National ParkAbel Tasman National Park has a colourful andextensive history from Maori habitation throughto European settlement. Now it is one of NewZealand’s smallest but most beautiful nationalparks, made up of native forests fringed withstriking golden beaches. The park is at thenorthern end of a range of marble and limestonehills, honeycombed with caves and potholes. TheAbel Tasman Track is one of the country’s mostpopular walks, passing through some of the bestscenery the park has to offer (for further detailson this and other walks please see pages 64-65).Alternatively, you can explore remote beachesand sheltered waters by kayak.Copper Beech B&B, nearAbel Tasman National ParkThis delightful property is the home of artistJohn Gatenby and his wife Carol, and combines avery welcoming and comfortable B&B with John’sprivate gallery. The house, set against a mountainbackdrop, is beautifully decorated with softcolours and sensitive lighting and is surrounded bylarge gardens. Carol’s superb breakfasts are servedin the dining area or outside if the weather allows.There are lovely estuary walkways within a fewminutes stroll, the township of Motueka is justdown the road and Abel Tasman National Park isa 30 minute drive away.Stonefly Lodge, nearAbel Tasman National ParkStonefly Lodge is situated in half a squarekilometre of private forest on the banks of theMotueka River, only 50 minutes’ drive fromNelson. This luxury lodge is located betweenthree spectacular national parks, Abel Tasman,Nelson Lakes and Kahurangi, making it an idealbase for exploring the region. Activities from thelodge include fly fishing, sea kayaking, guided andself-guided hiking tours, wine tasting, white-waterrafting and horse riding. There are just four guestrooms, all with spectacular views from privatebalconies of the Motueka River and beyond to theMount Arthur Range in Kahurangi National Park.Each day a cooked breakfast, pre-dinner canapésand a three-course dinner are included.Copper Beech B&B, near Abel Tasman National ParkThe Resurgence, nearAbel Tasman National ParkLocated on the edge of the Abel Tasman andKahurangi National Parks, The Resurgenceprovides the opportunity to enjoy beingsurrounded with nature without compromisingon comfort. Hidden away in an incredible bushsetting, the property provides great views as wellas peace and privacy. The individual guest chaletsand lodges are a wonderful combination of naturalwood and luxury and include excellent kitchenfacilities and barbecues on the decks, althoughdelicious dinners can also be provided. There is apool and spa pool, and extensive grounds thatoffer numerous walking trails. The enthusiastichosts are actively involved in conservation and aremore than happy to share their passion for thenative flora and fauna.Sea kayakingAlthough Abel Tasman National Park has a rangeof activities on offer, sea kayaking here is one ofits greatest pleasures. The waters are shallow,crystal clear and calm, so even the mostinexperienced kayaker can take to the water witha guide to paddle into sheltered lagoons, searchingfor playful seals and other native fauna. With avariety of boat trips also on offer, we are able totailor a day out which combines any of theelements you are interested in, and allows youto be as active or sedate as you like.www.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 41