Things to do in Abel Tasman: A Stunning Trip to New Zealand’s Smallest National Park

Abel Tasman, found on the northwestern edge of New Zealand‘s South Island, is famous for being the smallest National Park in the country. It is also absolutely mind-blowingly stunning and was such a highlight during my trip. Here is my complete guide to all the best things to do in Abel Tasman National Park.

How to Get to Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman is located in the north-west of the South Island. As such, by far the easiest way to reach this wonderful part of the country is by car. There aren’t a huge number of public transport options to reach here. The nearest large town is Nelson, which is 60 KM away and takes around an hour to drive.

If you are travelling by bus, the Intercity goes to Nelson from Picton, Christchurch and other cities and towns around the South Island. From here you can take the Better Bus service between Nelson, Motueka and Mārahau. This bus service departs Nelson and Motueka early each morning. It heads to Marahau to meet up with morning trips into the Park. The bus returns from Mārahau to Motueka & Nelson in the afternoon. You can book your transfers online or give them a call. There is also a new local eBus service which operates between Nelson and Motueka.

An alternative option to reach Abel Tasman is on the Kiwi Experience bus! This is how I travelled to Abel Tasman, starting in Wellington and crossing to the South Island via ferry. You can read all about this way of travelling here: Kiwi Experience review: what it is really like to travel around New Zealand with Kiwi Experience.

How to Get Around Abel Tasman National Park

Once you have reached Abel Tasman, the best, and realistically only, way to explore beyond the main hubs is by water taxi. Mārahau and Kaiteriteri are both accessible by land and serve as the two main gateways into the park. Still, if you want to venture further along the coast to reach the golden beaches and bays in between, you will need to hop on a water taxi to get there.

The main operator running out of Mārahau is Abel Tasman AquaTaxi. This has operated water taxi trips, sea shuttle services, and scenic cruises in the park since 1990. One-way fares start from $59. This gives you access to the six major bays along the coastline: Anchorage, Torrent Bay, Bark Bay, Onetahuti, Awaroa, and Totaranui. Booking in advance is strongly recommended to ensure you get a place. You can do this online via the operator’s websites. It is also worth noting that if you want a return trip, you will need to book two separate one-way fares. The taxis run year-round, though services are more frequent during the busy summer season.

Things to do in Abel Tasman National Park

Here are the best things to do in Abel Tasman National Park to make the most of your time in this incredible part of New Zealand.

Walk the Abel Tasman Coast Track

This is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. It consists of 60km of granite headlands and subtropical rainforest interlaced with deserted beaches. Hiking the entirety of the Abel Tasman Coastal Track usually takes around 4 days. This involves 5 hours of hiking per day, with camping along the way.

However, a popular and more time-efficient way of experiencing part of this walk is to get a water taxi along the coast and walk back along the track. I caught the taxi from Kaiteriteri to Bark Bay, and then walked back through Anchorage Bay, Torrent Bay and Apple Tree Bay before ending in Mārahau. It was an absolutely stunning walk, all 26.5KM of it. One of the best things to do in Abel Tasman! Make sure you take swimming clothes to bathe in some of the bays to cool off!

Visit Cleopatra’s Pools

If you are walking along the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, Cleopatra’s Pool is a detour that is absolutely worth taking. Located between Anchorage and Torrent Bay, it is a series of natural rock pools at the base of the Torrent River, with a famous moss-lined waterslide. The detour is only around 10 minutes from the main track, so it is very easy to visit. Make sure you pack your swimwear, and wear water shoes as the rocks at the bottom of the pool can be quite sharp. Bear in mind that the water can be pretty chilly, so be prepared for a bracing dip.

Take a Water Taxi – Things to Do in Abel Tasman

While taking a water taxi is technically a form of transport, it is also one of the best things to do in Abel Tasman. A fun way to see some of the stunning coastline. Combining it with a walk is the perfect mix of sea and land! A fantastic way to get out on the water and truly appreciate the beauty of this area. You see a lot of the sights from the taxi. A perfect way to combine an activity with getting from A to B!

Visit Split Apple Rock – Things to Do in Abel Tasman

Split Apple Rock is a hidden landmark that can be found between Kaiteriteri and Mārahau. It is one of the sights that can be spotted from the water taxi, and the boats do tend to stop in front of it to allow you to get a good look. Another reason to take the water taxi! Alternatively, it is a 10-15 minute walk down from the beach at Mārahau.

The rock is a natural phenomenon that was most likely caused by water getting into the cracks in the granite. This then froze as the temperature dropped, and eventually caused the rock to split in two, resembling an apple. It is also steeped in Māori legend. Tokangawhā (the Māori name) was split by two feuding gods fighting to possess the massive boulder. To resolve their dispute, they used their immense strength to break the rock in half, resulting in its name, which translates to “burst open rock” or “split rock.

Go Sea Kayaking – Things to Do in Abel Tasman

One of the ‘must-do’ things to do in Abel Tasman is to go sea kayaking. The park has been New Zealand’s sea kayaking mecca for over 30 years and is perfect for first-time paddlers or seasoned kayakers. From Mārahau, there are plenty of operators who offer plenty of options for sea kayaking.

These range from self-guided, half-day tours with a walk and full day activites. I chose to kayak in the morning, followed by walking back along part of the Abel Tasman Coast Track. It included kayaking along the coast and entering some of the caves. They even produced a cup of tea on the beach. The best way to explore this part of the country.

Take a Boat Cruise or Sailing Trip – Things to Do in Abel Tasman

If you aren’t feeling quite energetic enough for kayaking, then a scenic cruise is the answer! There are a few options, including a sailing trip, a catamaran trip and a boat cruise. All give you the perfect chance to watch wildlife and soak up the stunning coastline, all while relaxing. Sights include Split Apple Rock, seal colonies, and lunch on board.

Swim at Kaiteriteri Beach – Things to Do in Abel Tasman

Kaiteriteri is a great place to base yourself when visiting Abel Tasman. Plus, it happens to have a beautiful golden sand beach that is perfect for a lazy afternoon in the sun. Relaxing here is undoubtedly one of the serenest things to do in Abel Tasman. The calm, clear waters make it ideal for swimming, and there are kayak and paddleboard rentals available if you fancy getting out on the water. With water taxis departing directly from the beach, it also makes a fantastic base for day trips deeper into the park.

Spot Wildlife at Tonga Island Marine Reserve

Tonga Island Marine Reserve is a highlight and one of the things to do in Abel Tasman, an absolute must for wildlife lovers. The reserve includes sandy beaches, boulder headlands, rocky reefs and small estuaries, and is home to a large array of marine life. The seal population that basks on the rocks will most likely be the first of the abundance of wildlife you’ll find here, with red rock crabs, crayfish, snapper and kina thriving beneath the surface.

If you’re lucky, kayakers may also spot a pod of dolphins, and little blue penguins are often spotted along the coast. The best way to experience the reserve is by kayak or water taxi, with most boat tours passing through on their way along the coastline. Do keep in mind that you must stay at least 20 metres from the seals.

Top Tip: If you are looking for a kayak tour of Tonga Island, why not try this tour, which adds a layer of local knowledge!

See the Seal Pups at Adele Island

Adele Island is a predator-free wildlife sanctuary sitting just offshore in the Astrolabe Roadstead. This is a sheltered, calm body of water located between the mainland and Adele Island. The northern end of the island is home to a colony of New Zealand fur seals, known as kekeno, who bask on sun-warmed rocks, dive through the turquoise waters, and perform antics just metres from the shore.

The island is also home to penguins and some of New Zealand’s rarest birds, including the South Island Saddleback. Most boat and catamaran cruises departing from Kaiteriteri will pause here for photos, making it easy to tick off without any extra effort. If you want a more up-close experience, a guided kayak tour will take you right around the island.

Take a Scenic Flight – Things to Do in Abel Tasman

A scenic flight offers a different perspective of the sweeping coastline of Abel Tasman. Spot golden beaches, lush native bush, and pristine, clear waters from the air.

The flight departs from Takaka Airport, which is 60 KM from Kaiteriteri, above the north of Abel Tasman. The flight also includes flying over the magnificent Kahurangi National Park, and then to the dramatic stacked cliffs and islands of the West Coast. As well as the famous Wharariki Sea Arches and Pillar Point, and New Zealand’s longest sand spit. From there, head over to Separation Point and view the stunning golden beaches of the northern Abel Tasman National Park and the Awaroa estuary. One of the most expensive, but also more incredible things to do in Abel Tasman.

Top Tip: Book a flight such as this one, where you get to wear a headset to hear the pilot’s commentary to understand more about what you are seeing.

Paddle a Waka

Another activity that involves getting out on the water! This time, a more unique cultural experience, paddling a waka along the Abel Tasman coastline. These are the traditional Māori canoes that were used for transport, trade, and ceremony. This experience is about more than just being out on the water. You’ll learn the ancient protocols of the waka, including the rhythmic chants used to keep the crew in perfect synchronisation. It is a powerful way to feel the connection between the land (whenua) and the sea (moana) while taking in the stunning golden beaches from a completely different perspective.

The experience is centred around Kotahitanga (unity), as you and your fellow paddlers work as one to navigate the coastline. Along the way, your guides share local legends and stories of the iwi (tribes) who have called this coastline home for centuries. Paddling a waka offers a sense of peace and cultural depth that you simply won’t find in a standard kayak or water taxi.

Top Tip: Booking a tour such as this one also includes a two-hour walk, giving you the chance to experience both whenua and moana.

Where to Stay in Abel Tasman National Park

If you are visiting Abel Tasman, you will most likely base yourself in either Mārahau or Kaiteriteri. I stayed in Kaiteriteri (in a beach hut, no less!) and loved how close it was to the beach. There are a few accommodation options, but it is not a large place, so it is limited.

WHERE TO STAY IN KAITERITERI:
Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve Cabins – Set in a holiday park with direct beachfront access and stunning sea views. There is a beachfront restaurant, as well as a basic kitchen to make your own meals.
Kimi Ora Eco Resort – A 10-minute walk from Kaiteriteri, and has rooms with a balcony and sea views. There is also a spa and wellness centre.

WHERE TO STAY IN MĀRAHAU:
Adventure Lodge – If you are on a budget, this is a great option. It has easy access to the Coast Track, as well as activities and offers a shuttle service.
Abel Tasman Lodge – Stunning rooms and excellent staff. Only 500m from the beach, but some offer mountain views.

ELSEWHERE IN ABEL TASMAN:
Awaroa Lodge – Located further north, and perfect if you are looking for a little more luxury. It has a range of rooms, a restaurant, a pizzeria, and a spa. Only a five-minute walk from stunning Awaroa Beach, down a forest track, which is fantastic for sunrise and sunset.

When to Visit Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman is famous for being the sunniest part of New Zealand, and having the highest sunshine hours in New Zealand, so there really isn’t a “bad” time to go.

However, Summer (December–February) is the undisputed peak season. This is when you’ll find blazing sunshine, sparkling turquoise water, and perfect temperatures for swimming. However, keep in mind that the secret is well and truly out. The main tracks and popular campsites can get quite busy, so you’ll want to book your water taxis and huts well in advance.

If you prefer a bit of solitude, the shoulder seasons (October–November and March–May) are a good time to visit. The weather remains remarkably mild, but the crowds thin out significantly, leaving the golden sands much quieter. For the truly adventurous, Winter (June–August) offers crisp, clear blue-sky days and incredibly calm waters. You might need a thicker jacket for the boat ride, but you’ll often feel like you have the entire national park to yourself.

How Long to Spend in Abel Tasman National Park

If you are planning on walking the entirety of the Abel Tasman track, then you will need to allow at least 4 days just for this. However, if you want to take it slightly easier – perhaps walk part of the track, head out on the water and relax on the beach, two to three days is the perfect amount of time.

If you’re short on time, one day would be enough to catch a water taxi to a beautiful beach like Torrent Bay or Awaroa, enjoy a short 2-hour hike, and be back by sunset.

Is Abel Tasman National Park Worth Visiting?

Absolutely yes! Abel Tasman is definitely somewhere that needs to be on your New Zealand itinerary. It has a special coastal magic that you won’t find in other places in New Zealand. Lush, native bush, Mediterranean-style beaches, and stunning blue water make it feel a little like a tropical paradise.

Tips for Visiting Abel Tasman National Park

A few final tips for visiting Abel Tasman National Park to help you make the most of your time:

• Be aware of the tides: Several sections of the track, most notably the Awaroa Inlet, are only crossable around low tide (usually 1.5 hours before to 2 hours after). This will either mean adding KM to your or hike, or in the case of Awaroa, there is no high-tide alternative. So check the DOC tide tables before you book your transport or accommodation.
• Book your bed early: If you want to walk the Abel Tasman Coast Track and don’t want to camp, you will need to book a DOC hut. Huts and campsites sell out months in advance, especially for the summer season. The booking window typically opens in May, so set a calendar reminder if you’re planning a multi-day trek.
• Prepare to Get Your Feet Wet: Even if you aren’t hiking, most water taxis require “wet landings.” This means you’ll hop off the boat directly into calf-deep water on the beach. Wear sandals or flip-flops that are easy to slip off, and bring a small towel to dry your feet before putting your shoes back on.
• Transporting luggage: If you’re staying at a lodge or campsite and don’t want to carry a heavy bag, use the baggage transfer service. Most water taxi companies will take your suitcases or large packs from the mainland to your destination beach for a small fee, leaving you free to enjoy the boat ride or a light stroll with just a daypack.
• Come prepared: Unlike other parks, there are no shops, cafes, or water fountains once you enter the park. Bring plenty of water, high-SPF sunscreen, and all the snacks you’ll need for the day.

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