Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s smallest national park, but its golden-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush coastal forests pack a punch. This is the quintessential Kiwi summer destination — think kayaking past seals, hiking the famous Coast Track, and swimming in calm, clear coves. It’s a place where the sea and bush meet in perfect harmony, and where you can feel the rhythm of the tides and the warmth of the sun on your skin.

Highlights & What to See

• Abel Tasman Coast Track: One of New Zealand’s Great Walks, this 60km track takes 3-5 days and weaves through native forest, across swingbridges, and along stunning beaches like Anchorage and Torrent Bay. You can also do day hikes from Marahau or Kaiteriteri.
• Sea Kayaking: Paddle the crystal-clear waters of the park, exploring hidden coves and spotting fur seals basking on the rocks. Guided trips from Marahau or Kaiteriteri range from a few hours to multi-day expeditions.
• Cleopatra’s Pool: A natural rock swimming hole with a small waterfall — perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day. Accessible via a short side track from the Coast Track near Torrent Bay.
• Split Apple Rock: A perfectly split granite boulder sitting just offshore near Kaiteriteri, best seen by kayak or on a scenic boat cruise.
• Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for New Zealand fur seals, little blue penguins, and a variety of seabirds. Dolphins and orcas occasionally visit the bays.
• Water Taxi Adventures: Use the park’s water taxi service to jump between beaches and trailheads, allowing you to customize your walk or kayak trip without retracing steps.

Suggested Time to Spend

Spend at least 3 days to really soak in the park’s beauty — one day for a kayak trip, one for a hike on the Coast Track (e.g., from Marahau to Anchorage and back, or a water-taxi assisted section), and a third for relaxing on the beaches or a scenic cruise. If you’re short on time, a day trip from Nelson or Motueka can still give you a taste: take a water taxi to Bark Bay, walk the track to Torrent Bay, and return by water taxi.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson: The nearest city, known for its arts scene, craft breweries, and the World of WearableArt museum. Just an hour’s drive south.
• Motueka: A laid-back town with great cafés and access to the park’s main gateway at Marahau. Also a hub for hop-growing and craft beer.
• Kaiteriteri: A beachside village with golden sand and calm waters — perfect for swimming and launching kayak trips. Only 15 minutes from Marahau.
• Kahurangi National Park: A vast wilderness of ancient forests and the Heaphy Track, another Great Walk. Combine with Abel Tasman for a longer adventure.
• Golden Bay & Farewell Spit: A scenic drive over Takaka Hill leads to wild beaches, the iconic sandspit, and the quirky town of Takaka. About 1.5 hours from Motueka.

Please check official sources for current details.