Oceania (Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacific) - Abel Tasman National Park Lodges and Top South Island Activities

Weve been to NZ half a dozen times and enjoyed every place, some more than others but been in awe of the scenery peacefulness, cleanliness and friendlieness

We were in Nelson last year and enjoyed Abel Tasman Park so much we are returning again this year. Id like to do the overnight in the park, and if we only had one night and had to choose, any preferences on the two Wilson lodges - Meadowbank or Torrent Bay Lodge. Also any favorite walks in the park?

We are probably staying in the area for four or five days. Wed like to go to Golden Bay and Farewell Spit and then the other way to Marlborough Sounds

Any suggestions and unique experiences welcome.

Can't help you with lodges or walks, but it is a great area for kayaking. Maybe the single nicest part of NZ, and definitely under-visited (of course that is part of the allure). Much more pleasant (being semi-tropical) than the cold rainforests further south. Just outside of the park are located some superb artisans who make some gorgeous wood works of art.

I've worked as a Guide on the Abel Tasman for 6 years. If I ask people which Lodge, Meadowbank Homestead - Awaroa or Torrent Bay Lodge, they prefer, the answer is a 50-50 mix. They both have a similar level of comfort and service (modern ensuite rooms) but each has a very different character. Torrent Bay Lodge has a modern beach-house atmosphere decorated in a casual, nautical theme. Meadowbank is a replica of the Wilson family's original homestead, so has a more colonial theme with old fashioned gardens and lots of history to explore. Around Torrent Bay, there are more tracks and places to explore, both walking and kayaking, so it's a better location if you want to be active. Meadowbank has a very relaxed atmosphere and is more tide and weather dependant for activities. Meadowbank is my favourite, but that's because I like to relax on my days off and I love its history.

Thanks so much for your post. It looks like we can't go wrong whichever we end up at. I think it will be decided for us based on the direction of the walk we join for the 2 days

We were in Nelson last year and had a day in the park and it was not long enough so we are returning.

Where do most of the groups that you guide come from and what are their age ranges?

Any other favorite things to do in the Nelson area