For an unusual experience of Abel Tasman National Park, entirely away from beaches, try the hike to Awapoto Hut.

A well-defined track from Pigeon Saddle heads uphill into the bush, passing some beautiful stands of mature podocarp forest before heading out along the ridge above Awaroa Inlet. There are some fine views of Awaroa Bay and to Farewell Spit from here.

The track undulates, climbing slowly, but is never hard. The 12-bunk hut is bathed in all day sun with views of the park glimpsed through the forest cover. There is an overriding sense of isolation and tranquillity at this beautiful location.

If you have itchy feet to explore further, you could head up Evans Ridge to the turn-off to Wainui Hut and back via Moa Park clearing. But really, the hut setting is hard to pass up on a fine winter day.