Abel Tasman Coastal Track – Top Things to Do on the Trail

The Abel Tasman Coastal Track is a renowned hiking trail in Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand. Spanning approximately 60 kilometres, it offers stunning coastal views, golden beaches, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. Hikers can explore attractions like Cleopatra's Pool and Tonga Island Marine Reserve. With well-marked sections, the track accommodates various walking options, including water taxis and kayaking. Campsites and huts are available for overnight stays, but bookings are required. This popular destination provides nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts with an unforgettable and picturesque hiking experience along New Zealand's beautiful coastline.

The easiest way to get close to Abel Tasman National Park is by flying into Nelson, the largest city in the area with a well-connected airport. From Nelson, it's a one-hour, 60km drive to the park. If you're driving from the North Island, you'll need to take the car ferry from Wellington to access the South Island. Once in the South Island, you can drive to Abel Tasman National Park.

Yes, you can customize your experience on the Abel Tasman Coastal Track. The track offers various options for you to tailor your journey based on your preferences and available time. Whether you have half a day, a full day, or a few days to explore, there are plenty of options to shape your own unique itinerary.

You can choose between Department of Conservation (DOC) huts and campsites or private lodge-style accommodations with tour providers. DOC huts provide basic facilities like bunks, heating, and cooking facilities, while campsites offer beachfront views. Private accommodations offer a more luxurious experience.

The Abel Tasman Coastal Track offers stunning highlights such as white sand beaches, crystal-clear bays, and abundant wildlife. Notable attractions include Cleopatra's Pool, a picturesque rock pool with a moss-lined waterslide, and the captivating inlet to Falls River featuring a 47-metre suspension bridge. Visitors can also spot fur seals/kekeno and explore the pristine waters of the Tonga Island Marine Reserve. With its natural beauty and cheeky wildlife, the track provides a remarkable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike

The Abel Tasman Coastal Track starts in the picturesque seaside village of Marahau, located at the southern end of the track. From there, it follows the stunning coastline of the Abel Tasman National Park, traversing through golden beaches, lush native bush, and crystal-clear waterways. The track extends all the way to Wainui Bay/Tōtaranui in the north, offering breathtaking views and diverse landscapes along the way. Wainui Bay/Tōtaranui serves as the endpoint of the track, providing a beautiful conclusion to your journey through this renowned coastal trail.

The Abel Tasman Coastal Track is divided into four main sections:

• Marahau to Anchorage: This section takes approximately 4 hours and covers a distance of 12.4 km. It begins with crossing the estuary over the Marahau causeway and passes through open country and lush beech forests before reaching Anchorage Bay.
• Anchorage to Bark Bay: There are two options for this section. The high tide track takes around 4 hours and covers 11.5 km, while the low tide crossing at the Torrent Bay estuary takes about 3 hours and covers 8.4 km. Both routes offer scenic coastal views and lead to the beautiful Bark Bay.
• Bark Bay to Awaroa: This section takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, covering a distance of 13.5 km. It involves crossing the Bark Bay estuary and passing through mānuka stands and the forested Tonga Saddle before reaching Awaroa Bay.
• Awaroa to Wainui or Tōtaranui: From Awaroa, hikers can choose to either continue to Whariwharangi Bay and Wainui (2 hours, 5.7 km) or take the Gibbs Hill Track to Tōtaranui (3 hours, 9 km). This section offers diverse landscapes, including sandy beaches and rocky headlands.

These sections allow hikers to plan their journey and experience different parts of the Abel Tasman Coastal Track based on their preferences and available time.

No, the use of hammocks, including "tree hugger" hammocks, is not permitted in the campsites on the Abel Tasman Coast Track.

The walking season for the Abel Tasman Coastal Track is open all year round. Transport, activities, equipment, and accommodation operators are available throughout the year. However, it's important to note that the peak season is from October to April when DOC hut wardens and staff are based at the huts and Tōtaranui Camp Office. In winter, wardens rotate among the huts. The advantages of visiting the Abel Tasman coast in winter include fewer visitors, calmer water, less water traffic, and fewer insects. The main disadvantages are the shorter daylight hours and cooler temperatures.

Yes, DOC provides car parks at three road ends: Marahau, Totaranui, and Wainui. These car parks are designated for visitors to the park. When parking your car at the DOC car parks, it's important to note that you park at your own risk. Take necessary precautions to secure your vehicle and valuables. Follow any signage or instructions provided at the car parks for a safe and organized parking experience.