Wow - what a great time we had, click here to see some of the pics we took of our time at Awaroa Lodge in the magnificent Abel Tasman National Park

We really enjoyed unwinding on our honeymoon and for those we haven't caught up with yet, we spent four nights in the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park with one-night stop-overs either side at a lovely waterfront B&B in Nelson.

We took the Water Taxi into the park from Marahau arriving at lunchtime on Monday to some wonderful Tapas - just a prelude to the gastronomic delights which awaited us at the cafe each day.

We decided to do some day tramps and some kayaking while in the park to take in the beautiful scenery and the many lovely beaches. While we struck mixed weather it didn't hinder our adventures and on Tuesday we tramped south to Tonga Quarry with our packed lunch from the lodge café. Amandas new boots got a good wearing in though, and she could hardly walk by the time we arrived back!

Wednesday was our kayak trip on which we enjoyed a days paddling to and from Onetahuti. The day started off pouring with rain but cleared to beautiful sunshine, as you'll see in the photos. We even got in a bit of sunbathing and some snorkelling with a few NZ fur seals along with a visit to Shag Harbour, a tidal inlet not accessible by boat or foot.

On Thursday we tramped north across the tidal Awaroa Inlet to Waiharakeke and Goat Bays to Skinner Point were we decided heading back to the beach was a better idea than marching on to Totaranui. We enjoyed hours of lazing about in the sun and swimming until heading back to Awaroa Inlet to cross at low tide. We arrived a little early but decided we could cope with getting a bit wet and decided to head across. Unfortunately we ended up with Rob, with our daypack on his head, water lapping at his lips and me hanging off his arm, swept off my feet in the outgoing tidal current.
Despite my panic Rob swears that things were under control at all times, and what do you know we made it to the other side, though soaked through and a bit cold. A well deserved dinner was that night tasted extra good after our action packed day.

Our last day, Friday, was a rainy day spent in the café after checking out, enjoying our last dining experience. The food at the lodge is divine!!
We caught the water taxi out and a drove back to Nelson where we enjoyed a catch up dinner with friends Dean and Clare.

All in all a wonderful break and we'd highly recommend the area and the Awaroa Lodge to anyone.