Paddling Perfection

Abel Tasman National Park, Lake Tarawera and Urupukapuka Island in the Bay of Islands are all included in The Australian’s “Ten top paddling experiences in Australia and New Zealand.” “[Abel Tasman National Park] day-touring itineraries include the Tonga Island Marine Reserve, where visitors can swim with New Zealand fur seals, or head south to the Astrolabe beaches and the raucous birds of Adele Island … After a long day’s paddling on [Lake Tarawera], kayakers can sink into a warm bath simply by digging a hole at their Hot Water Beach (Te Rata Bay) camp site and letting the natural thermal springs top it up.”