Canyon Abel Tasman

One of the best Trips in The Abel Tasman

If you are ready for a mental and physical challenge, as well as a mean adrenaline rush, in the heart of the Abel Tasman, then this trip is definitely for you. Fun, exhilarating and the off-the-beaten-track, let us run you through the day that makes up the Abel Tasman Canyoning trip.

Gear fitting and introductions

Our morning began at The Barn with a pick-up at 7:55 am sharp! From here we were dropped down to the base to meet the team and our awesome guides. After a quick introduction, we did some and some hilarious team bonding as you all squeeze into thick wetsuits and neoprene socks. It is advised that you wear your togs first thing in the morning as this is what you will be wearing under the wetsuits for the day! Once the harnesses, hats, and wetsuits are fitted, the guides take care of storing them and you are free to wander back to the Boat Taxi pick-up point and await your ride (As part of the Packaged Trip).

Aquataxi ride to Anchorage and walk to the canyon:

Hannah and katie go Abel Tasman Canyoning

The Boat ride takes you on a cool trip up the park to get to the mouth of the river. Departing from Marahau we boated to Split Apple Rock for a look before boosting along the Astrolabe coastline and beaches. The captain had heard there were seals on the Northside of Adele Island so we dropped in there and saw some NZ Fur sea ls sunning themselves. From here we journeyed through the “Mad Mile” which was actually quite calm for us, before rounding the final point and Anchorage bay was upon us. Be on the look out for seals, rays, and blue penguins in the water!

Once you have landed, you re-group, lock up any valuables and embark on the hours walk towards the Torrent River canyon. The walk is uphill, but nothing too strenuous, and the guides provide ample distraction as they fill you in on the intriguing history of the area.

One secret track later and you find yourself at a rocky clearing, where fantails swoop in greeting, manuka sways in the warm hot breeze, and the water rushes off round the corner into… the canyon. After a lunch break and a safety briefing expertly conveyed by the guides, you are ready to take the first plunge into the freezing Torrent River!

The Canyon!

Over the following four hours, you will undoubtedly challenge yourself and, with the help of the friendly and encouraging guides, you will surprise yourself with what you thought possible and how much you grow in confidence. Abseil into deep plunge pools, slide down natural rock formations, jump from dizzying heights, and zip-line from one outcrop to another. It is certainly a physically demanding trip, but nothing too strenuous for those of fit and able-bodied. Any questions of ability can also be taken up with the team upon booking.

This was one of the best trips I have done, in terms of just how much fun it is, but also just pushing myself to go outside my normal comfort zone and spend the day with some awesome people!

What to expect:

All Canyoning Gear provided
Professional and experianced guides
Both water Taxis are included, to get you out to the canyon and back to Marahau again
Lunch, hot raro and snacks provided throughout the trip