Abel Tasman National Park
★ 4.8🇳🇿 Abel TasmanSuggested visit 2-3 daysBest season November to March, with the best water and weather
NatureCoastKayaking
Golden beaches meeting green bays, best explored by kayak and on foot in parallel.
Overview
At the northern end of the South Island, Abel Tasman is New Zealand's smallest national park, known for golden sand, clear bays and granite headlands. The Abel Tasman Coast Track runs about 60 kilometres, usually walked over three to five days, with water taxis able to link sections. Sea kayaking follows the coast, seals and dolphins are common, and summer water is warm enough to swim.
History
Established in 1942 and named for the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, who arrived in 1642, it is among the most popular coastal walking areas in the country.
Highlights
- •The golden beaches and green bays
- •Walking sections of the coast track
- •Sea kayaking along the shore
- •Seals and dolphins
Practical tips
- •Tides affect parts of the track — check the tables
- •Summer lodges and campsites need booking ahead
Practical information
- Best time
- November-March
- Tickets
- The park is free; water taxis from about NZD 40
- Opening hours
- All day
- Local food
- Green-lipped mussels, lamb, local wine
- Getting around
- About an hour by car from Nelson to the park entrances.
- Visa
- A visa is required; a NZeTA can be applied for online.
Traveller reviews
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