Three connecting tracks (Abel Tasman Track, Heaphy Track and the Wangapeka Track) link up to form a great tramping course around the top of the South Island. The Abel Tasman follows the Golden Bay coast and is one of New Zealand’s nine “Great Walks.” It starts in Marahau near Nelson and ends near Takaka. From there go to Collingwood and stay a while, rest, relax and see all the wonderful Collingwood region has to offer, Farewell Spit, Cape Farewell, Wharariki Beach etc, before beginning the Heaphy Track, another “Great Walk.” The Heaphy Track will lead you to Karamea where another scenic wonderland awaits. Stay in Karamea for at least four days to experience the many scenic spots the region has to offer. Be sure to explore the Oparara Basin, climb Mt Stormy, visit the Honeycomb Caves and traverse the Karamea Gorge before heading back to Tapawera and Nelson on the Wangapeka Track.

The three-track loop is a cost-effective way to have a wonderful adventure in New Zealand and take in some of the best scenery on the South Island without using a lot of fuel, minimising your carbon emissions and staying fit in the process!