Once described by The Times as New Zealand’s best-kept secret, Abel Tasman National Park is a hidden gem that is too good not to be shared.
Golden sandy beaches and inviting azure waters are undoubtedly the hallmarks of Abel Tasman National Park. Compared to the sprawling alpine landscapes of the South Island’s other national parks, Abel Tasman National Park is small and easily accessible – with water taxi or kayak being popular options for getting around.
The world-renowned Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, spans 60 km (37 miles) of granite headlands and subtropical rainforest interlaced with deserted beaches. It is one of the few Great Walks in the South Island that can be tackled in the winter months without an ice axe and crampons. Typically, visitors take three to five days to walk the track, but with a small armada of water taxis on hand (see below), you can easily break it into day trips or focus on specific sections.
Please note, booking is required for this track.
Looking for a ride? The region’s water taxi operators, including Wilsons Abel Tasman and Abel Tasman Aqua Taxi, offer flexible drop-offs, along with multi-day walking and kayaking tours.
The park’s sheltered coves and acres of coastline make sea-kayaking a popular pastime. Choose from a wide range of operators such as Waka Abel Tasman, Kahu Kayaks, Abel Tasman Kayaks, Marahau Sea Kayaks, Golden Bay Kayaks, and R&R Kayaks, many of which also offer guided kayaking tours incorporating coastal walks and return trips by water taxi.
Should you tire of the park’s seemingly endless golden beaches, there are other options. The Harwoods Hole Track offers stunning limestone rock formations and the country’s deepest vertical shaft. The Pukatea Walk takes you into glades of tall nīkau palms. Or take the Pitt Head Loop Track(opens in new window) to an ancient Māori pā (fort) site, where you can see the remains of terracing and food pits. Visit the Department of Conservation(opens in new window) for hiking options.
Abel Tasman National Park is a fantastic destination to visit any time of the year. Located in one of the sunniest regions of the country, it enjoys mild winters with many clear, sunny days.
Always check with the Department of Conservation(opens in new window) for updates before you visit the park.
Tucked into the northwest corner of Tasman Bay, New Zealand's Abel Tasman National Park is easily reached on flights from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch to Nelson. If you’re driving, the main access points are Mārahau and Kaiteriteri, which are about an hour’s drive from Nelson. There are daily bus services from Nelson and Motueka to Mārahau.
Many visitors choose to stay in Kaiteriteri or Marahau, where a variety of accommodation options are available. Both the Kanuka Ridge Abel Tasman Backpackers and Lodge and Abel Tasman Lodge are excellent choices.
Accommodation along the Abel Tasman Coast Track includes four Great Walk huts. The huts are very popular so booking ahead is essential.
The Department of Conservation(opens in new window) manages campsites across a range of stunning locations. Prior booking is required.
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