Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
NYDIA BAY, MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS
- 27.8km one-way
- 1,174m elevation gain
The Marlborough Sounds (Tauihu-o-te~Waka) are an extensive network of sea-drowned valleys at the north-eastern edge of the South Island, just 1.5 hours out of Nelson. The lush hills and sleepy, turquoise bays are sparsely populated and most properties can only be accessed by boat.
Nydia Track is a point-to-point trail from Duncan Bay to Kaiuma Bay. The track is well-formed, but can be uneven and rooty in places - great training for technical terrain! There are two main climbs up over Nydia Saddle and Kaiuma Saddle, and you’ll make your way through private farmland in between. Make sure to say hello to the cows 
There are several gorgeous bays along the way for a dip, and a plethora of streams to top up water along the way - make sure you bring your filter! (and keep any eye out for the gigantic “pet” eel)
Score yourself a chauffeur, or organise a buddy to run in the opposite direction and swap keys somewhere in the middle.
Nydia Lodge itself is another 6km on from Nydia Campsite.
Nydia Lodge itself is another 6km on from Nydia Campsite.
Getting There
Turn off state highway 6 just north of Rai Valley, then right onto Opouri and follow to the end until you reach the car park at Duncan bay 🌞
Thanks to @the_great_nadini for the photos!
