Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
Tableland Circuit, Kahurangi National Park
A stunning local favourite that can be done year-round!
28km loop
Stay: Salisbury Lodge (22 bunks, no bookings required)
Starting from Flora Carpark, this circuit is best done clockwise - heading out to Mt Arthur for an optional summit, and crossing over Gordon’s Pyramid. This route will take you through the Horseshoe Basin which has unreal rock landscapes and beautiful mountain vistas.
After descending down through a magical mossy forest you’ll reach Salisbury Lodge with its epic views out to the mountains you just climbed. Option to veg out at Salisbury, or venture further into the tablelands to Balloon Hut (great camping to be found up on the hill above the hut!).
From Balloon Hut the journey back to Flora Carpark is a chill 18km, and you will find some awesome rock shelters to explore along the way!
Getting there: Flora Carpark is 75km from Nelson. Follow the Motueka Highway until you reach Ngatimoti, then cross the Motueka River and turn left onto Graham Valley Road that will lead you to the carpark.