Abel Tasman walking,
hiking or tramping,


Tel: +64 (3) 528 8652
Mobile: 0212 760323

Hiking, tramping and bushwalking in New Zealand is paradise.

The Happy Apple Backpackers in Motueka is close to two of New Zealand's world famous Great Walks, the Abel Tasman Track and the Heaphy Track.

And is uniquely sited near four awesome parks:
• Abel Tasman National Park 15 kms to the north
• Kahurangi National Park 10kms to the west
• Mt. Richmond Forest Park 40kms to the east
• Nelson Lakes National Park 70kms to the south

Tramping adventures abound.

You can discover the joys of hiking as you tramp to the multitude of back country huts that are a unique feature of New Zealand's tramping experience. National Parks in New Zealand offer hiking opportunities for people of all fitness levels.

Not far from Happy Apple Backpackers/Lagoon Lodge in Motueka are tramping tracks through native bush which will lead you over alpine passes, along mountain ranges and up and down pristine river valleys. You'll find stunning swimming holes, take fabulous photographs and will probably spot some of our rare and endangered birds; kiwi, whio (blue ducks), weka, kea and kaka. You may also discover a powelliphanta, one of New Zealand's giant carnivorous land snails, or uncover relics of our fascinating pioneer history. And you will realize the diversity of New Zealands amazing native flora as you hike through the bush.

Happy Apple Backpackers is the closest backpackers hostel to the Motueka Department of Conservation Office. There you can obtain free advice about our great outdoors and buy maps and hut passes if you plan to stay overnight in the back country huts.

Happy Apple/Lagoon Lodge is also only an hours drive from the magnificent Nelson Lakes National Park and Rainbow Ski field, where you will discover more great walks or enjoy a day in the snow in the depths of winter.

Janet and Bill are proud sponsors of New Zealand's back country facilities, and are happy to help with any tramping or hiking queries.