Small and perfectly formed: welcome to Abel Tasman National Park

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Small and perfectly formed: welcome to Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park is a wilderness reserve at the north end of New Zealand’s South Island. It’s known for the Abel Tasman Coast Track, a long trail winding over beaches and across ridges between Marahau in the south and Wainui in the north. The headland at Separation Point is home to New Zealand fur seal colonies. Little blue penguins, bottlenose dolphins and seals inhabit the Tonga Island Marine Reserve.

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Abel Tasman National ParkAbel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National ParkAbel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National ParkAbel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National ParkAbel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National ParkAbel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National ParkAbel Tasman National Park

Small and perfectly formed: welcome to Abel Tasman National Park

NEW ZEALAND // New Zealand's national parks can't half be hard work sometimes. Arduous squelches through ankle-deep mud, frigid river crossings, gut-busting climbs over foggy mountain passes. Then it rains. Welcome to New Zealand. But it needn't be this way. Near Nelson, at the top of South Island, Abel Tasman is a national park pleasure dome - a place where you can swim, sunbathe and kick back, enjoying all the fun of a beach-bum holiday. The country's smallest national park is also its sunniest and most popular, luring visitors with golden beaches, sparkling seas, coastal forest and granite cliffs. And its Coast Track is New Zealand's favourite Great Walk, with seaside campsites, communal huts and even luxury lodges en route. The ultimate adventure, however, is kayaking; friendly waters and easy options make it an unforgettable way to explore Abel Tasman's hidden coves, and cosy up to wildlife such as fur seals, penguins and dolphins.

 

Is Abel Tasman National Park free?

There is no charge to complete a day walk on the trail or to enter Abel Tasman National Park. Pay your fees by reserving cabins and/or campsites before starting the trail.

Can you do Abel Tasman in 2 days?

I recommend a day trip in Abel Tasman with a water taxi, kayak and walking option. If you can do a day tour, but stay in the park and wake up the next day, this is the best way to experience it all. The second day I suggest spending it on the beach and exploring the bays. The Abel Tasman Valley is also wonderful.

Is it worth going to Abel Tasman National Park?

Abel Tasman National Park may be New Zealand's smallest national park, but it's one of the most stunning. It is a popular destination for hiking, kayaking and sailing. The golden sandy beaches and clear turquoise water are almost tropical, and the native bush is rich with lush vegetation and birdsong.

Is Abel Tasman a great walk?

One of New Zealand's great walks, the Abel Tasman Coastal Trail is a great way to explore the unique beauty of the Abel Tasman National Park.

How long should I stay in Abel Tasman?

It is 3 to 5 days of walking along the coastal path. The Abel Tasman Walk can be enjoyed as a half-day, full-day or multi-day walking adventure. You will experience the best of our popular national park. Abel Tasman National Park has been New Zealand's sea kayaking mecca for over 30 years.

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