Motor Neurone Disease NZ - Abel Tasman 2026

2-6 October 2026

Travel Dates

$390

Registration Fee

$3,079 (NZD)

Trip Cost

Paid upfront or in instalments.

Further instalment options can be discussed!
*Minimum numbers apply

55km

Trekking Distance

3.5/5

Challenge Grade

$3,500 (NZD)

Fundraising Target

Separate to Registration fee and Travel Cost

The Difference You'll Make

Motor Neurone Disease NZ (MND NZ) is the only organisation in Aotearoa solely dedicated to supporting people with motor neurone disease (MND) and their loved ones. From diagnosis through every stage, MND NZ offer tailored support, strong advocacy, practical education, and a clear voice for research and systemic change.

We exist because the need is urgent, persistent and growing - and we are committed to making time count for every person affected. We envision a world where no one faces MND alone - a world where people are supported to live with dignity and hope, and where MND is ultimately treated, cured or prevented.

By joining the Trek for MND - Abel Tasman 2026 trek, you’ll be standing in solidarity with those impacted by MND. Every step you take help to fund:

Personalised support to ease the daily challenges of MND.
Advocacy to improve access to health and disability services.
Education that builds awareness, understanding and compassion.
Research that brings treatment studies closer to home.

MND NZ receives little government funding. Your fundraising efforts are what make this work possible. Register for the Trek for MND - Abel Tasman 2026 challenge today, and help to make time count for people with MND and their loved ones.

How it works

Secure your place

Register by clicking the "Register now" button, and choose your payment plan for the travel cost. For more details, see our FAQs.

Start Fundraising

Using the fundraising page we build for you, and book a call with your fundraising coach.

Meet the team

Meet like-minded travellers and hear from the charity about the difference you're making.

Your Adventure Begins

Set off on your adventure! Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.

Trip notes

Day 1, Friday, 2 October 2026: Nelson to Awaroa via Totaranui

This morning we will meet in Nelson and meet the rest of our team and guides. We will first have a tour briefing and some last-minute luggage organisation before we depart to Kaiteriteri by coach for our cruise. On our cruise along the National Park Coastline to Totaranui, we’ll pass by Medlands Beach, Tonga Quarry and Awaroa. Once we reach Totaranui, we’ll trek though mature beech and rata forests and along secluded golden beaches to the tidal inlet at Awaroa. At the end of the day, we’ll reach our first lodge where we’ll stay for two nights.

Accommodation: Lodge based on twin-share

Trekking distance: 7 km

Transfer time: 1.5 hours

Meals: L D

Day 2, Saturday, 3 October 2026: Explore Awaroa

A day of choices! Let your guide plan an adventurous or relaxing day to suit you. Options include:

Explore the largest tidal estuary in Abel Tasman National Park on foot or by kayak (tides permitting)
Visit early European and pre-European historical sites
Unwind on the beach
Relax and enjoy the comforts of Meadowbank Homestead at Awaroa.

Trekking distance: approx 10 km (optional, if choose to walk)

Accommodation: Lodge based on twin-share

Meals: B L D

Day 3, Sunday, 4 October 2026: Awaroa to Torrent Bay

Today’s trek consists of three sections. You can choose the sections you would like to walk and our guide and make any necessary boat bookings in the morning.

The first section (9km) will leave from Awaroa and we’ll trek through native forest with magnificent coastal views and the golden sands of Onetahuti Beach. The second (4km) will take us to explore the historic sites and picturesque golden cove of Tonga Quarry Beach. From here, we’ll walk over a forested saddle and around the Waterfall Trail to Bark Bay where we’ll stop for lunch. Section three (7km) is the most varied section of the track as it winds through shady gullies of mature Beech forest, fern grottos and sunny groves of Manuka framing coastal vistas. We’ll cross the swing bridge at Falls River and continue on to Torrent Bay, the location of our second lodge where we’ll stay for the final two nights.

Accommodation: Lodge based on twin-share

Trekking distance: approx. 9-20 km (dependent on chosen sections)

Meals: B L D

Day 4, Monday, 5 October 2026: Explore Torrent Bay

We’re in for a more relaxed day today where we can once again choose what we’d like to do. We have the option to walk through forests up to the waterfalls on Falls River, canoe or walk around the estuary and visit Cleopatra’s Pool, walking to the protected beaches of Anchorage and Te Pukatea and visit historic Maori sites or relax on Torrent Bay.

Accommodation: Lodge based on twin-share

Meals: B L D

Day 5, Tuesday, 6 October 2026: Torrent Bay to Nelson

Our last day takes us through the pristine bays and headlands named by French explorer, Dumont D’urville. Along the way, we will stop for lunch at one of the bays and then we’ll continue on walking to Marahau. From here, we will return back to Nelson where our adventure comes to an end. We’ll say our goodbyes to teammates and our guides as we head our separate ways!

Trekking distance: 13-16km

Transfer time: 1.5 hours

Meals: B L

Package Inclusions: Transfers as per itinerary • Accommodation in lodges based on twin-share • Meals as per itinerary • Water on trekking days • Professional guides • Entrance fees as per itinerary • Lodge luggage bag

Package Exclusions: International airfares • Airport transfers • Travel insurance (compulsory) • Visas, if required • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities

Fundraising for good

New to the wonderful world of fundraising, or worried you won't hit your fundraising goal? Don’t worry, we’re here to help. The Inspired Adventures team will support you with a personalised plan, regular coaching, and plenty of resources. From online campaigns to trivia nights, bake sales and creative ideas, we’ve got tried-and-tested tips to help you reach your goal.

Meet Jillian - your personal fundraising expert, who will be with you every step of your fundraising journey!

Sample Fundraising Plan

$1,000 > $2,000 > $3,000 > A few extras

$1,000 >

Online Direct Donations

Send out personal emails to your network with a clear, specific ask. For example: “My goal is to have 50 people donate $20 each to my cause. Can you help by donating $20?”
Use the Grassrootz fundraising platform to share your page on social media, copy your unique URL, and download your QR code in just one click, it’s that easy!
Ask your family and friends to reach out to their networks and help spread the word.

Sausage Sizzle

Host a BBQ at your local Bunnings, Woolworths, sports club, or workplace.
Advertise in your local newspaper and invite everyone you know to come along.
Offer vegetarian or gluten-free options to maximise your sales.

$2,000 >

Trivia night

Reach out to a local pub, club, community centre or hotel to host a trivia night.
Charge for entry, or offer group discounts to encourage attendance.
Prepare a fun and varied set of questions, or choose a themed night (e.g. 90s, movies, travel).
Organise prizes for winners!

Morning or Afternoon Tea

Host at home, work, or a local community venue.
Charge a ticket price that covers costs and supports your fundraising goal (e.g. $15–$20 per person).
Ask friends, family, or local businesses to donate baked goods or drinks to help reduce costs.

$3,000 >

Workplace Donations

Ask your employer if they’d be willing to support your challenge with a one-off donation or a sponsorship.
Many workplaces have CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) or community giving programs - check if yours does and see if they can support your fundraising.
Get your workplace involved through internal promotions, posters in the office, or see if they can share your fundraising challenge in their newsletter or on their website to boost visibility.

Auction or Raffle

Reach out to local businesses, friends and family, or corporations for prize donations.
Run it online or as part of an in-person event.
Make it easy for people to purchase tickets by offering payment options.
Be mindful of local raffle permit requirements depending on your state or territory.

A few extras

A Few Extras

Garage Sale: Sell unused items at a garage sale or on platforms like Facebook Marketplace and donate the proceeds.
Virtual Fitness Challenge: Get active! Ask for donations based on reps or distance (e.g. $2 per push-up or $5 per km).
Donation Boxes: Place collection tins in local cafés, gyms, or shops to encourage community support.
Guess-the-number jars: Jars of jelly beans or lollies are a great way to engage office staff, schools or community centres.

Why you'll love this adventure

Experience the diverse scenery and topography of Abel Tasman National Park.
Challenge yourself to trek up to 55km through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Take the routes once frequented by miners and prospectors in days long past.
Journey with other Motor Neurone Disease NZ supporters and raise funds to help make time count for people with MND and their loved ones.

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventures.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

The Abel Tasman trek is ranked a moderate 3.5/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. This is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. It is essential that you prepare for this challenge. We recommend that in the months leading up to your trip, you increase your physical fitness with aerobic exercise.

How many people will be on my adventure?

We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 20 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

Do I have to carry my own bag?

On most adventures, you'll only need to carry a day bag with essentials for your day of activities. Your luggage/big backpacks will either stay at your accommodation, be transferred to your next accommodation, or will be carried by porters.

Who is Inspired Adventures?

Motor Neurone Disease New Zealand has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 20 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $49 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and Motor Neurone Disease New Zealand, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete several day hikes. You should aim to be able to walk in hilly terrain for 5+ hours comfortably and get up and do it again the next day.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek.

What to expect

How is my luggage transported?

You will only need to carry a day pack with you each day. Before the trip, you will receive a complimentary lodge luggage bag (a sports bag that you can either keep or return for recycling). Pack everything you will need for the trip in this bag, and it will be transported between the lodges by boat. Any excess luggage or valuables can be securely stored at the starting point of the trip.

What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation on this adventure is in Department of Conservations huts, multi-share cabins and one-night camping in single tents.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share, and multi-share in cabins where twin-share is not available. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

Fundraising

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target?

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined.

By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together?

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for Motor Neurone Disease New Zealand are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like?

On this adventure you will stay at two private beachfront lodges in the ‘heart of the Abel Tasman’. Rooms are twin-share and feature ensuite bathrooms.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin or double share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. A single supplement is available if you prefer your own room.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

Payments, cancellations and refunds

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure?

The total cost to participate in this adventure is NZD $3,469 which is inclusive of:

Registration fee: NZD $390 (non-refundable after 5 days)
Travel cost: NZD $3,079 (includes a $950 non-refundable travel deposit)

In addition, you are also committing to raising NZD $3,000 (per person) for Motor Neurone Disease New Zealand.

What happens if I need to cancel?

If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.

Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund (less card transaction fees).
Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $950 deposit, $390 registration fee and card transaction fees.
Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory for non-NZ residents and highly recommended for NZ residents to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.

Do I need a visa to travel to New Zealand?

Australian passport holders do not require a visa for entry into New Zealand. If you are travelling on a different passport or for further information, please contact the relevant embassy.

Corporate sponsorship

Take this new and exciting corporate social responsibility initiative and see your staff and brand take on this adventure as a team.

An Inspired Adventure with Motor Neurone Disease New Zealand offers the following benefits:

Employee engagement opportunities to attract and retain staff
Long-term partnership with Motor Neurone Disease New Zealand and increased community engagement
Improved employee wellness through the impact of paying it forward
Increased brand value through unique PR opportunities
Improved workplace mental and physical health with a focus on fitness and training for the challenge
Increased visibility through an innovative approach to corporate social responsibility
Team building opportunities across departments through the achievement of a common goal
Great networking opportunities

Find out more by downloading our corporate sponsorship pack HERE.

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

Testimonial

“It was a wonderful, inspiring and heart warming experience and I met some amazing people.”

– Leigh, Vision Australia Able Tasman New Zealand 2025

“Just do it. It magnifies your sense of purpose. It’s good for your soul.”

– Darren, Motor Neurone Disease NZ Kilimanjaro 2025

“I’m incredibly proud of what we achieved – the walk, the connection, and the fundraising for an incredibly worthwhile organisation.”

– Mat, Motor Neurone Disease NZ Kilimanjaro 2025

Find Out More

Enter your details to find out more and hear directly from our team about how this adventure makes a difference.