Planning a trip to New Zealand? Our Frequently Asked Questions page covers everything from booking tours and transport options to what to pack and when to visit. It’s your go-to guide for clear, reliable answers that help take the stress out of organising your holiday. Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, or with a group, you'll find helpful tips to make your Kiwi adventure run smoothly.
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.
Yes, there are daily bus services from Nelson and Motueka to Abel Tasman National Park, providing convenient transportation for travellers without their own vehicles.
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:
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, there are no water taxi services available for the entire Abel Tasman Coastal Track. Commercial water taxis operate between Marahau/Kaiteriteri and Totaranui, covering the southern and central portions of the track. However, water taxis are not permitted to go above Totaranui, so there is no direct service to Wainui or any of the Northern bays. If you wish to travel beyond Totaranui, you can use the Gibbs Hill Track to make a loop in the Northern end of the park.
Yes, from Tōtaranui, you can take a water taxi back to Mārahau. Make sure to check with your water taxi provider for their pick-up and drop-off locations and timetable.
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.
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, 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.
Yes, there are restrictions on freedom camping in the Abel Tasman National Park area. Strictly no freedom camping is allowed within the park. This means that camping outside of designated campsites or areas designated for camping is not permitted. To stay overnight in the park, visitors must book and stay at the designated huts or campsites along the Abel Tasman Coastal Track. The Department of Conservation (DOC) provides car parking at Marahau, Totaranui, and Wainui road ends, but camping in these parking areas is not allowed. It is important to adhere to these restrictions to help preserve the natural environment and maintain the park's sustainability.
Yes, reservations for huts and campsites on the Abel Tasman Coast Track are required in advance. It is necessary to book your accommodation ahead of time to secure your spot. Walkers are not allowed to stay in huts or campsites without a valid booking. Making reservations in advance ensures that you have a guaranteed place to stay during your visit and helps manage the capacity of the track. It is recommended to check availability and make your reservations as early as possible to avoid any inconvenience.
It is recommended to make your booking for huts and campsites on the Abel Tasman Coast Track as soon as you have finalized your travel plans. The track is popular, especially during the peak season (October to April), and availability can fill up quickly. Therefore, it is advisable to make your booking as far in advance as possible to secure your preferred dates and accommodation. Booking early ensures that you have a confirmed spot and allows you to better plan your trip without any last-minute accommodation concerns.
During the trekking season, the huts have bunks, mattresses, heating, toilets, basic gas cooking facilities, solar-powered lighting, and cold running water. A DOC ranger is present. However, they do not provide food, cooking utensils, or showers.
For the Abel Tasman Coast Track, you should bring supplies such as food, cooking utensils, a stove, warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, sturdy footwear, insect repellent, sunscreen, a first aid kit, a map, and a tent or sleeping bag if camping.
No, the use of hammocks, including "tree hugger" hammocks, is not permitted in the campsites on the Abel Tasman Coast Track.
For a comfortable and safe experience, we recommend the following:
Footwear:
Clothing:
Other essentials:
Overnight gear:
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