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From Discovery and CruisingTo Advanced Mountaineering Expedition
Located in Pelorus Sound, one of the many passages in the web of waterways that make up Marlborough Sounds, the Nydia Track is more remote and less-visited than other destinations in the region. Traverse two high points and follow the shoreline of Nydia Bay, significant historically for the logging operations based there from the late 1800's to early 1900's. Beautiful native forest of podocarps and beech trees can be seen on some sections of the trail, providing a glimpse of how the entire Sounds looked before such activities took place. Carry only minimal gear and stay at a lovely private lodge in a peaceful setting near the water that can only be accessed by foot or by boat. The tranquility of this place will have you not wanting to leave.
19kg of CO2-e PP per day
(56kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
Day 1
Arrive Havelock
Make your own way to Havelock, the mussel capital of Marlborough Sounds located roughly halfway between Nelson and Picton. Check-in to your trip accommodation any time after 2:00pm. Take some time to explore this quiet little village at the head of Pelorus Sound. Visit the local museum, wander along the marina with its flotilla of boats or sample some local produce. Freshly prepared green-lipped mussels are the signature dish and are not to be missed!
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Walk from Kaiuma Bay to Nydia Bay (11km, 4 - 5 hr)
Meet this morning at the Mail Boat shed at the Havelock Marina (an easily identified central location) for a 9:30am road transfer to Kaiuma Bay, the southern trailhead for the Nydia Track. The journey is approximately 45 mins and is mostly on a narrow, winding unsealed road. The Nydia Track is a series of old bridle paths linked together, passing through farmland, a variety of native and regenerating forests and tracing the shoreline of Nydia Bay where logging activities occurred from 1876 until 1919. There is little evidence of this in present times. Walk the first part of the track today, through regenerating and beech forest, gradually ascending until Kaiuma Saddle (387m), which is about halfway for today and the highest point on the trail. The view is far-reaching and on a clear day it is possible to see the Marlborough region's highest peak, Tapuae-o-Uenuku (2885m) in the Kaikoura Ranges. From here the track is all downhill, crossing a stream and farmland before reaching the shore of Nydia Bay. The lovely On The Track Lodge in its peaceful surrounds is your base for the next two nights. NOTE: You will need to bring your own packed lunch today.
Meals: D
Day 3
Rest day at Nydia Bay
Today is completely at your leisure, depending on how much or little you feel like doing. Explore some local trails, meander around Nydia Bay or perhaps take a kayak from the lodge and enjoy some casual water activities. Alternatively, relax in the hot tub, read a book or just absorb the peace and tranquility of this beautifully remote location. All meals today are provided by the lodge, including a picnic lunch.
Meals: B,L,D
Day 4
Walk from Nydia Bay to Duncan Bay (15km, 5 hrs), transfer to Havelock
Collect your packed lunch from the lodge after breakfast this morning and continue walking the Nydia Track, following the shoreline along the edge of the bay where saw milling activities once occurred. Turning inland the track then climbs to Nydia Saddle (347m) from where there are lovely views of Tennyson Inlet, your destination today. Cross the saddle and descend to sea level once again, passing through some of the most beautiful native forest on the track including giant rimu, nikau, beech and tree ferns. Your driver will be waiting at Duncan Bay, the northern trailhead, to collect you at around 3:30pm. Transfer back to Havelock (a journey of about 1.5 hrs) where trip arrangements end on arrival at approximately 5:00pm.
Meals: B,L
What's included
What's not included
These types of tracks usually allow for mountain bikers as well as walkers. You should expect to encounter both along the way. Multi-use tracks are usually well formed and easy to follow, with clear signposting. Track surfaces are mostly even, compacted earth or fine gravel. They can however, also include stone or wooden steps, rock slabs, boardwalk, swing bridges, wooden bridges, moderately uneven terrain with tree roots and some loose pebble surfaces, as well as some steep sections of trail or scrambling required. They are generally wide enough for two people to pass side by side, but can be narrow and single file at times.
Accommodation is on a twinshare basis in modern rooms with kitchenette facilities for self-catering if required. All linen is provided and bathrooms are ensuite. Laundry facilities are available. The property is conveniently located for dining out options, shops, local walks and points of interest. There is mobile phone reception and wifi available.
This is an original home built from local timber by the first owners and is located on private property bordering public reserves. It is only open for overnight guests. The property has water frontage with a unique character and delightful charm while also providing modern facilities. The main buildings are set back from the water amongst gardens and bushland. Rooms have shared bathrooms, with all linen provided, with the exception of the more luxurious restored 1930's train carriage rooms which have ensuite bathroom. Maximum capacity is 24 guests, including the use of a Mongolian yurt style room with 5 single beds (suitable for families or a group of friends). Communal lounge, library and outdoor seating areas offer a comfortable homely touch. Resident hosts are on hand to ensure a comfortable stay. Meals are home-cooked and served in the well-equipped communal kitchen and dining area. The lodge is solar powered with a booster generator and has an outdoor hot tub. Mobile phone reception varies depending on your service provider but is generally limited. Wifi is sporadic so it is best not to expect either and come prepared to disconnect from your devices.
MODERATE TO CHALLENGING: These adventures involve walking for up to 6 or 7 hours a day at a steady pace. You will need a good level of fitness and must be in good health. Treks may involve carrying a full pack around 15kg and tramping/hiking boots are necessary. Be prepared for potential variable weather conditions. Tracks may be unformed, rough and steep with potential for unbridged stream or river crossings. Tracks are suitable for those with moderate to high level backcountry (remote area) experience, navigation and survival skills. Suggested preparation: We recommend 45 minutes of aerobic type exercise, three to four times a week. Hill walking with a pack in variable weather conditions is also recommended.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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Our itineraries have been carefully designed and researched with you in mind. The logistics are handled for you allowing you the freedom to walk New Zealand at a level of your choosing and in your own stride.
A core Maori value exercising guardianship in relation to nature, flora and fauna and its people, ensuring that sustainability and environment are valued, respected and protected for future generations to enjoy.
As a small business ourselves, we love supporting and sharing New Zealand with other small and likeminded businesses and communities to showcase for you, what our land and people have to offer.
4Days
Moderate
6Days
Moderate to Challenging
5Days
Introductory