No Road Access
You cannot drive into the heart of the park; access is via water taxi, kayaking, or hiking from Marahau or Wainui.
Description
Abel Tasman National Park in New Zealand is pure coastal paradise—golden beaches, turquoise water, lush forests, and epic hiking or kayaking routes. It’s famous for the Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of the country’s Great Walks, but you don’t have to trek far to find jaw-dropping views. You can spot seals, swim in clear bays, and camp under the stars. It feels wild but accessible, peaceful but full of adventure. Nature at its dreamiest.
Highlights
- Gold-sand beaches meet emerald water on New Zealand’s sunniest coast.
- Epic coastal track with water-taxi hops between trailheads.
- Kayak alongside fur seals and secluded coves.
Location
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20 Wallace Street, Motueka 7120, New Zealand
Know Before You Go
Tidal Crossings
Several sections of the Coast Track (like Awaroa) are impassable at high tide; check the local tide tables daily.
Water Taxi Booking
In peak summer (Dec–Feb), water taxis sell out days in advance; book your "drop-off" and "pick-up" together.
Drinking Water
While there are taps at major huts, the water is often untreated; bring your own or a high-quality filter.
Hut Bookings
If staying overnight, you must book "Great Walk" huts or campsites months in advance through the DOC website.
Example Itinerary
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08:30
Leave Nelson by Bus
Board a regional shuttle from Nelson and head northwest along the scenic Tasman Bay coastline. -
10:00
Arrive at Marahau Gateway
Stop at the southern park entrance in Marahau, the starting point for coastal walks and kayak rentals. -
11:30
Visit Abel Tasman National Park
Board a water taxi to reach Anchorage Bay, then hike through native fern forests and lounge on pristine golden-sand beaches. -
18:00
Arrive in Kaiteriteri by Nightfall
Take a return water taxi back to the resort town of Kaiteriteri to enjoy fresh seafood by the beach.
