Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson

Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson

Named after the first European explorer to see New Zealand, the Abel Tasman National Park between Golden Bay and Tasman Bay at the north end of South Island is known for its golden beaches, granite cliffs, marble formations, estuaries, offshore islands, and scenic Coast Track, which runs from Marahau in the south to Wainui in the north.

Named after the first European explorer to see New Zealand, the Abel Tasman National Park between Golden Bay and Tasman Bay at the north end of South Island is known for its golden beaches, granite cliffs, marble formations, estuaries, offshore islands, and scenic Coast Track, which runs from Marahau in the south to Wainui in the north. It may be the smallest national park in the country, but has plenty of things to see and do. It is good to visit all year round, but peak season is during the summer months of December to March. Vehicles are not permitted inside the park, but water taxis can be used. The operate from Marahau and Kaiteriteri, running to the beaches of Anchorage, Torrent Bay, Bark Bay, Onetahuti, Awaroa and Totaranui. Boat services from Golden Bay, Kaiteriteri and Marahau are available for easier transportation. From Wainui to Totaranui in the north, water taxi service is not available and guided group trips are strictly limited.

• The 51 kilometre long Abel Tasman Coast Track is a 3 - 5 day walk along gorgeous beaches, beech forests, and sunny groves.
• Sailing, boating, sea kayaking, and swimming are popular aquatic activities in the park.
• The headland at Separation Point has fur seal colonies.
• The Tonga Island Marine Reserve between Bark Bay and Awaroa Head has little blue penguins, bottlenose dolphins and seals.
• At Te Puketea Bay, a walking track leads up Pitt Head to an ancient Maori fort site.