Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand's smallest national park, is well-known, particularly among hikers, for its Coastal Track which takes in breathtaking views of the northern South Island coast and provides challenges to walkers and opportunities for exploration.
For those who would rather go by sea, there are cruising, boating and kayaking experiences to be had.
Access to the national park
There are four main gateways to the park: Marahau and Kaiteriteri at the southern end, Totaranui and Wainui in the north.
Regular and on-demand bus services provide access to these gateways. Commercial boat operators offer day excursions, drop-off and pick-up for walkers at various points throughout the park.
The Coastal Track is usually accessed from Marahau or Totaranui. Marahau is about an hour and a half by road from Nelson, the region's principal town. An extra hour is needed to reach Totaranui.
The Coastal Track
The track takes three to five days to complete. There are huts along the way with bunks for overnight use which must be pre-booked to be assured of a place to sleep. Of course, campers and daytrippers have no need of overnight hut accommodation although there is a camp charge for those using the park campsites.
All rivers and streams along the Coastal Track are bridged. There are four tidal estuaries which become impassable at high tide. Tide tables are posted in huts and at Totaranui and road ends, so be sure to check the times when you can cross the estuaries safely.
Guided walks are available with overnight stays at a lodge at Awaroa.
Going by sea
From Marahau you can join a cruise or go by water taxi to discover the national park's natural coastal attractions.
Alternatively, you can go kayaking either on a guided kayak tour or, if adequately skilled, by yourself. Overnight accommodation in well-furnished lodges are available.
Fast facts
Size: 22,530 hectares.
Name: The national park is named after Dutch explorer Abel Janzoon Tasman who sailed into what is now known as Golden Bay at the northern tip of the park in 1642. Tasman was the first European to visit New Zealand. The Europeans were met by Maori canoes and in an ensuing skirmish four of Tasman's men were killed. Tasman never set foot on the park named in his honor.
Huts: Located at Anchorage (26 bunks), Bark Bay (28), Awaroa (26) and Whariwharangi (20) and provided with heating, toilets, bunks, mattresses and a water supply. Carry your own cooker as no cooking facilities are provided in the huts.
Camps: Camping is only permitted at designated campsites shown on the national park map. There are 21 designated campsites along the Coastal Track.
Fires: Open fires may only be lit in fireplaces provided at certain designated campsites. Be sure to extinguish your fire before leaving the fireplace.
Rubbish: All rubbish must be carried out of the park.
Insects: Sandflies can be a problem. Insect repellent and clothing to cover the limbs when you stop walking are recommended. Wasps can also be a problem, particularly in February and March; antihistamine cream or tablets are advised.
Fishing: Fishing and shellfish gathering is not permitted between Awaroa Head and Bark Bay within the Tonga Island Marine Reserve.
