Abel Tasman National Park
New Zealand's smallest national park, but among its most popular — a string of golden-sand beaches and sheltered bays linked by a coastal track and best explored by foot, kayak or water taxi.
Quick Facts
- Region
- Tasman, South Island
- Best time
- Nov – Apr
- Entry fee
- Free; water taxi/kayak from ~$50
- Duration
- Half day – multi-day
Overview
Abel Tasman National Park covers just 225 square kilometres, but its combination of golden granite-sand beaches, clear turquoise water and native coastal forest has made it one of New Zealand's most visited parks. It's named for the Dutch explorer who anchored nearby in 1642 — the first recorded European contact with New Zealand, which ended in conflict with local Māori before Tasman's ships departed without landing.
The Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, runs the length of the park and can be walked in full over 3–5 days, or sampled in shorter sections using the water taxi services that shuttle between the park's beaches.
Things To Do
- Coast Track day walks — sample a section of the Great Walk using water taxi drop-offs and pick-ups.
- Sea kayaking — guided or independent kayak trips along the coastline, often including a walking section.
- Water taxi cruises — scenic transport between beaches that doubles as a sightseeing trip in its own right.
- Split Apple Rock — a distinctive, cleanly split boulder just offshore, visible from the water or a short walk.
- Wildlife spotting — seals, little blue penguins and dolphins are regularly seen from the water.
Getting There
Most visitors access the park via Kaiteriteri or Marahau, both about 45–60 minutes' drive from Nelson. Water taxis and kayak trips depart from these towns; there's no road access into the park itself beyond its edges.
| Location | Abel Tasman National Park, Tasman District |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Accessible 24/7; water taxi and kayak operators run daytime schedules |
| Entry Fee | Free; water taxi and kayak trips typically from NZD $50 |
| Duration | Half day for a short walk; 3–5 days for the full Coast Track |
| Accessibility | Some beach sections accessible by water taxi; walking track is unformed in places |
Gallery
Nearby Attractions
Kaiteriteri Beach
The main gateway beach to Abel Tasman, with golden sand and clear water of its own.
Farewell Spit
A 26km sand spit at the top of the South Island, home to thousands of migratory birds.
Nelson
The nearest city, known for its arts scene and as the usual base for exploring the park.