Nelson's Market and the stunning Abel Tasman National Park

Well another lovely day greeted us, so we were up early and walked down the street from our motel to the local Nelson Markets.

The "Backpacker's" Hostel above caught our eye.

as did these characters above - some "stilters" getting ready to greet those at the Markets.

We wandered around checking everything out

then back to the Motel, to pick up some jackets and the like, as we had decided we would drive up to Kaiteriteri to see if we could hop on a Sea Shuttle to spend the rest of the day around the Abel Tasman National Park.

We arrived at Kaiteriteri Beach

Just so much action 

 and fun happening here

every mode of water sport 

seemed to be happening on a glorious day.

We booked our place on the Sea Shuttle in an hour, so went to the local Cafe

and shared a magic huge steak sandwich.

The other end of Kaireriteri Beach

and our Sea Shuttle

This Shuttle would take us from here right up to Totaranui Beach

stopping at many many beaches en route

and on our return.

Ah - Split Apple Rock

The Abel Tasman National Park is located at the north end of the South Island

it is the smallest of New Zealand's national parks 

with a coverage of 225 square km.

It consists of forested, hilly country to the north of the valleys

of the valleys of the Takaka and Riwaka Rivers.

We stop at some amazing places

dropping people off at the beach of their choice.

This park is bounded to the north by the waters of Golden Bay

and Tasman Bay

and it is named after Abel Tasman the first European explorer to sight New Zealand

in 1642.

We cruise in close to Tonga Island

to check out the NZ fur seals.

There are so many activities on offer here

and these Sea Shuttles play drop off and pick up all day from all the Bays, Beaches and Lagoons

Kayaking is a major attraction

as are "treks' between the different beaches

Water taxis are everywhere and part of the transportation system

and carry your kayaks for you.

After about 5 hours, we arrive back at Kaiteriteri Beach

There is a wedding taking place on the next beach

Unfortunately, time to disembark

The tide was out when we arrived back

 - a little windy on the top deck - but a windcheater sorted that out.
Truly another incredible day in a stunning area.