Anatori River & Cobb Valley
Coast to mountains – the best of both worlds
Looking for a proper getaway into the bush? Explore our wild coast and rugged peaks on this multiday adventure across the Tasman region.
Starting with an unmarked track from Anatori River to a historic homestead, we’ll spend a relaxed evening at the seashore where we can admire the sealife and that fresh, salty air. The following day, you’re in for a scenic drive around Upper Takaka, before hiking up the glacier-carved Cobb Valley. We can customize this trip to your preference – Kahurangi has something for everyone and it’s enormous!
- Stay in the historic Kahurangi Keepers House (pictured).
- Hike the wild Cobb Valley.
- Explore hidden mountain tarns and lookouts.
- Join a local guide and his white shepherd Skadi.
A great mixture of coastal views, rugged peaks and rewarding climbs: this trip is your chance to see plenty of Tasman in one go. This trip would suit someone who is looking to stay out a few nights, experience a variety of backcountry spots but not have to do huge amounts of walking. You’ll get a mixture of wide views, coastal, river and forest experiences as well as fantastic huts to stay in.
Drew
As a born and bred West Coaster, the bush is in my blood! I love showing off my beautiful Kāinga Tupu (homeland) and all it has to offer. I'm always exploring new places with my best mate Skadi, the white shepherd. My love for exploring the great outdoors is what drove me to leave my hectic day job and create a life that allowed me to get outside more. I'm a big fan of essential living, enjoying the simple things and staying away from material goods; you can get the benefits from all that out in the bush. If you hike with me, we'll visit some spots literally off the beaten track. The beaches on my Instagram are a prime example. I look forward to showing you the Coast!
Experience
- Knows the Coast and the "Coasters" like the back of his hand.
- Good knowledge of survival manuals and outdoor techniques.
- Has a “pretty mean beard”.
- Has lived abroad for 17 years.
- Basic First Aid Certificate.
Historic homestead of Tasman
Let’s start our adventure with a drive to Anatori River, a classic coastal surf spot. From here, I’ll lead you over an unmarked route along the beach to the lighthouse at Kahurangi Point. Bring spare socks for this, there are 2 river crossings on the way but it’s stunning and dramatic in all weather.
The difficulty of the crossings depends on weather and tide conditions – but don’t worry, I know the safest spots to cross.
Soon after, we’ll arrive at the historic Kahurangi Keepers House. The coastline here is windswept and as remote as it gets – a paradise for our endangered animals. From here, we can hike further to the lighthouse or settle in the homestead for a relaxing evening.
The following day, we’ll take the scenic route past Upper Takaka. We’ve explored the coast, now it’s time for some mountains!
The Cobb Valley track is an easy-going hike ending with a steep climb to the top of the valley.
Our accommodation for the night, Fenella Hut, offers expansive views over the National Park. It’s a tramper’s paradise up here and after a night in the hut, it’s time to explore the area on Day 3.
You can choose from multiple trips up nearby peaks and tarns, either way, you’re in for some breathtaking views. That night, we can camp out or return to the hut, before heading back to civilization. The perfect getaway packed with memories and scenery you won’t forget!
Gear
All tours require the proper gear to ensure you’re having the time of your life, and are well prepared if things go south. It’s the real and rugged New Zealand out there!
Required
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Cutlery, bowl & cup
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Hand Sanitiser
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Hiking Boots
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Hiking Pack
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Hiking Pants
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Hiking Socks
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Knife
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Lighter / Matches
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Pack Cover / Liner
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Rain Jacket
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Sleeping Bag
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Sunscreen & hat
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Toiletries & Underwear
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Top & Bottom Base layer
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Torch & Batteries
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Warm hat & gloves (March to October)
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Warm hiking layer
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Whistle
Optional
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Bivvy Bag
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Cooker & gas/fuel
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Insect Repellent
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Personal First Aid Kit
Extras
There are add-on extras for this tour. These are the little things that’ll either make your Adventure easier to organise or more rugged - your choice. You can add these during the booking process.
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Camping out
We can opt to camp out on the last day in Cobb Valley. The sunrise here is breathtaking, especially up on the tops! But it will present us to the elements, so good tents is a must.
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Choose your side trip in Cobb Valley
On the last day, we can choose from several day trips around Fenella Hut. There’s Kakapo Peak at 1,783m or shorter climbs to Waingaro or Xenicus Peak. All of the choices have stunning views and breathtaking scenery.
Free
Q & A
Your Bushman has added a couple of answers to questions other Visitors have asked in the past to help you with your booking plans. Once you book a tour, you'll be in direct contact with your Bushman for more support.
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Where are we staying?
We’ll stay in Kahurangi Keepers House on the first night, a large homestead with bunk beds, a fireplace, water tank, drop toilet and even a bath. In Cobb Valley, we’ll stay in Fenella Hut which has the same basic facilities but is a bit smaller. On the final night, we can either camp out on the tops for a nice sunrise or return to the hut.
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Can I take my kids?
Yes, Cobb Valley is quite popular with families and Fenella Hut is a great trip to introduce your kids to the backcountry. There are some river crossings on the first day, but we’ll try to cross at low tide and you can carry them over to the other side. The beach around there is the perfect playground!
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What do I need if I want to camp out?
It can get quite cold on the mountain tops, so you should pack some good thermals and a good sleeping bag. I always recommend taking a few breathable clothes so you can layer up or down. If you don’t have your own tent, you can hire one from us.
FAQs
Here’s a few answers to the more general questions about the whole journey. You can visit our help and support area for any further information or contact us via the chat function.
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What is the refund and cancellation policy?
Bushman Tours sets a standard cancellation policy that can be found via our Terms & Conditions. This is globally set at 48 hours notice. However, Bushmen may add to this depending on the requirements for the Adventure (e.g. - hiring gear and renting equipment on your behalf). The final policy will be located at the bottom of the checkout, or you can reach out to us to check.
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What happens if the tour is cancelled due to weather?
In most cases, the Bushman can arrange another day to run your tour, but this also comes down to when you're available if travelling through New Zealand. We recommend ensuring you have insurance for cancellation of any tours. If the Bushman has to cancel due to a health risk, we will call you to arrange another option.
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What gear do I need?
Although we have a minimum requirement of gear, you will need the right equipment and gear that is relevant to the Adventure you're booking. This is usually found at the bottom of each tour page, but for our minimum, please visit our FAQs & blog page.
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Can I hire gear/equipment?
In some circumstances, your Bushman will have equipment for you to hire. This is available to browse and book through the checkout. We may also have options through our checkout. Although you may be able to borrow gear during the tour, it's important to reserve it now.
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What food shall I bring?
Depending on the length, this can vary. Your Bushman will advise on the tour page what is recommended for this particular Adventure, but typically, what we offer at checkout via the add-ons section is what you'll need. Keep it lightweight and nutritious if you buy your own.
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Where do I meet my Bushman?
We always try to pick the closest iSite (Visitor Centre) to your Adventure's location. Instructions on precisely where to meet are sent after the booking is made. However, you can also message your Bushman and arrange another location as long as it's close enough to the region.
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How much extra is it to add family/friends onto the booking?
If you book and find that more people want to come with you, we can arrange to add them onto the booking (this is dependant on the Bushman's preference to the number of people to take out). The more that book on the original checkout option, the cheaper the fee for each individual - so spread the word before you go to book! Please note, you cannot add or bring extra people 48 hours before the tour starts.
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Can I talk to my Bushman before the Adventure?
Absolutely! Once you book, you will be able to login and chat directly to your Bushman through a private, secure chat. Here you can arrange some extras you would like to do, timings for pick up and much more.
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Need more help?
In the area
Got a some spare days or need more inspiration? Check out similar Adventures in this region you can book with this one.
