Abel Tasman National Park
A coastal paradise of golden beaches, granite cliffs, and lush forests, perfect for hiking, kayaking, and water adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warmest days, best for beach
Abel Tasman National Park
Best Time
Warmest days, best for beach
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A coastal paradise of golden beaches, granite cliffs, and lush forests, perfect for hiking, kayaking, and water adventures.
"This is an absolute must on your itinerary - the best 3 days we’ve had in NZ so far!"
Pack for all weather
NZ weather can change quickly! Layers are key. Bring rain gear, even in summer.
Book accommodation early
Campsites and huts fill up fast, especially during peak season. Plan ahead!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Abel Tasman Coast Track
Coastal trail
New Zealand's Great Walk, offering stunning coastal views, golden beaches, and lush forests. A must-do for hikers.
+1Kayaking Adventures
Coastal waters
Explore hidden coves, sea caves, and marine life from the water. Perfect for a unique perspective of the park.
+1
Awaroa Beach
Central Abel Tasman
Known as 'the people's beach' after a public crowdfunding campaign. Enjoy its sands or tackle the tidal estuary crossing.
Wainui Falls
Northern Abel Tasman
An easy, rewarding 1-hour return walk to a beautiful waterfall, accessible for most visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Water Taxis & Kayaks in Advance
+1Tidal Crossings Require Planning
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for all weather
NZ weather can change quickly! Layers are key. Bring rain gear, even in summer.
Book accommodation early
Campsites and huts fill up fast, especially during peak season. Plan ahead!
Waterproof your gear
Essential for kayaking and beach stops. Protect electronics and valuables.
Bring insect repellent
Sandflies can be persistent, especially near water. Don't let them ruin your day!
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for all weather
NZ weather can change quickly! Layers are key. Bring rain gear, even in summer.
Book accommodation early
Campsites and huts fill up fast, especially during peak season. Plan ahead!
Waterproof your gear
Essential for kayaking and beach stops. Protect electronics and valuables.
Bring insect repellent
Sandflies can be persistent, especially near water. Don't let them ruin your day!
Download offline maps
Cell service is spotty. Having offline maps is crucial for navigation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Abel Tasman National Park for its stunning golden beaches, turquoise waters, and well-maintained coastal tracks. The flexibility offered by water taxis and the adventurous element of tidal crossings are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. While the park is generally well-loved, some mention the persistence of sandflies and the need for advance booking for accommodation and transport.
"The Abel Tasman walking trails start right from the Park Cafe in Marahau – and they’re absolutely stunning! The tracks follow the coastline with golden beaches, turquoise water, and lush forest all around. You can do short walks or go further to Anchorage and beyond. Everything is well-marked and beautifully maintained. Along the way there are plenty of great spots to swim, relax, or just enjoy the views. One of the most beautiful walks in New Zealand."
Michael
"Beautiful park, the great walk is amazing, but should not be underestimated, I definitely recommend booking huts and camping in advance and checking the tides because of the way shorter low tide routes. The rangers are very kind. I also went canyoning there, the water is quite cold."
Jonas Lerch
"A spectacular and easy-to-visit park. It offers so many opportunities and trails. We chose to sail from Kaiteriteri to Totaranui and back because it had rained all day. Despite the bad weather and the little we saw from the sea, we still loved the park. We managed to see some seals on the rocks and others swimming. If we were to return, we would choose to stay at a lodge for a few nights. There's definitely a lot to explore by following some of the coastal trails."
Alfredo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main gateways are Marahau and Kaiteriteri. You can drive to these points, or take a bus from Nelson. From there, water taxis and kayak operators are your primary transport into the park itself.
No, Abel Tasman National Park is largely inaccessible by road. The best way to explore is by foot, kayak, or water taxi, which allows you to hop on and off at various beaches.
Marahau and Kaiteriteri are the most common starting points for the Abel Tasman Coast Track. Water taxis can also drop you at various points further along the track.
You can drive your campervan to the park entrances like Marahau or Kaiteriteri, but you cannot drive into the park itself. Parking is available at these locations.
The park is best explored via hiking the Coast Track, sea kayaking, or using water taxis. These services are essential for accessing different sections and for return journeys.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Abel Tasman National Park does not have an entrance fee. However, you will need to pay for water taxis, kayak tours, and campsite or hut bookings if you plan to stay overnight.
Water taxi prices vary depending on the distance and drop-off/pick-up points. Expect to pay anywhere from NZD $30 to $100+ per person for a one-way trip. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
While the track itself is free, overnight stays in Department of Conservation (DOC) huts or campsites require advance booking, especially during peak season.
The park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, services like water taxis and kayak operators have their own operating hours, which are typically daily during daylight hours.
It's strongly advised to book water taxis and kayak tours in advance, especially during busy periods. While some operators might have last-minute availability, you risk missing out if you don't book ahead.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Most visitors combine hiking sections of the Abel Tasman Coast Track with water taxi rides or sea kayaking. This allows you to see diverse landscapes and access remote beaches.
The full track is 60km and typically takes 4-5 days to complete. Many visitors opt for shorter day hikes or multi-day trips using water taxis to access different sections.
Yes, there are several shorter, easier walks. Wainui Falls is a popular 1-hour return stroll, and many sections of the Coast Track can be done as day hikes.
You might spot seals, little blue penguins, and a variety of seabirds. Keep an eye out for dolphins and orcas in the water too!
Absolutely! The park offers a range of activities from gentle beach strolls to more challenging hikes. Water taxis make it accessible for all ages and fitness levels.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options within the park are limited. Awaroa Lodge is one of the few places offering meals. It's best to pack your own food and snacks for hikes and beach picnics.
Pack plenty of water, high-energy snacks like trail mix and energy bars, and sandwiches or wraps for lunch. Consider a small cooler if you have a kayak.
You can find some limited supplies and cafes in Marahau and Kaiteriteri before you enter the park, but it's advisable to stock up in Nelson for a wider selection.
Most DOC campsites have basic facilities like picnic tables and toilets. Some may have a communal cooking shelter, but it's best to be prepared to cook your own meals with a portable stove.
It's not recommended to drink untreated water from streams. Always carry enough water or use a water filter/purification tablets.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden beaches, turquoise waters, granite cliffs, and lush green forests offer endless photo opportunities. Look for scenic lookouts along the Coast Track and dramatic coastal shots from the water.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden light, especially over the water. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant blues and greens are still stunning.
A good quality smartphone camera is sufficient for most visitors. If you're serious about photography, a wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a waterproof camera is ideal for water activities.
While not explicitly advertised as photography tours, many kayak and water taxi operators can take you to scenic spots that are perfect for photos. Ask your guide for recommendations.
Bark Bay, Anchorage, Torrent Bay, and Awaroa Beach are particularly picturesque and frequently photographed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options within the park are limited. Campsites offer a more immersive experience, but booking well in advance is crucial. The park's accessibility via water taxis means even younger children can enjoy exploring different parts of the stunning coastline without needing to complete long hikes.
🎒 Budget Travelers
To save on transport, consider sharing water taxi costs with other travelers or opting for longer hikes between drop-off and pick-up points. Packing your own food and cooking at campsites will significantly reduce expenses compared to dining out. While kayak rentals can be an investment, they offer a more independent way to explore than guided tours.
💑 Couples & Honeymooners
+1Consider booking a stay at Awaroa Lodge for a touch of comfort and luxury amidst nature, or opt for a more intimate camping experience under the stars. The park's tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty make it an ideal setting for a romantic getaway or honeymoon.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Abel Tasman by Water
+1Water taxis are another crucial element of exploring Abel Tasman. These services act as a hop-on, hop-off transport system, allowing you to access different points along the coast for hiking or beach stops. They are invaluable for creating flexible itineraries, enabling you to walk one way and catch a taxi back, or to reach more remote sections of the park. Booking these in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred times and routes.
+1When planning your water-based adventures, remember to consider the weather and tides. Conditions can change rapidly, and tidal crossings are a significant factor in some areas, like Awaroa Beach. Always check forecasts and tide charts to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
Hiking the Abel Tasman Coast Track
+1Key sections of the track are known for their beauty and accessibility. The stretch between Anchorage and Bark Bay is often cited as particularly scenic, featuring beautiful beaches and manageable terrain. For those seeking a shorter experience, walks to Wainui Falls offer a rewarding, easy-to-access natural attraction.
+1Preparation is key for hiking in Abel Tasman. Ensure you have sturdy footwear, adequate water and snacks, and be prepared for varying weather conditions. Understanding the tidal crossings, especially around Awaroa, is crucial for planning your route safely. Booking campsites or huts well in advance is essential if you plan to stay overnight.
Cultural Immersion in Abel Tasman
One way to experience this is through activities like Waka Abel Tasman, which offers an immersive journey into Māori culture. These experiences often involve learning about traditional navigation, storytelling, and the deep connection Māori have with the land and sea. It provides a deeper understanding of the park's significance beyond its landscapes.
Engaging with Māori culture adds a profound layer to your visit, transforming it from a scenic trip into a culturally enriching experience. It’s a chance to learn about the indigenous heritage of Aotearoa (New Zealand) and appreciate the stories woven into the fabric of the park.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit