The Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, showcasing the incomparable beauty of the Abel Tasman National Park.
Located on the northern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, this trail takes hikers through a diverse landscape, offering picturesque views of golden beaches, lush coastal native bush, and azure waters along the way.
Stretching from the small town of Marahau up to Wainui, this track delights travelers with a variety of outdoor activities. Besides hiking, visitors can also enjoy kayaking, biking, canyoning or simply relaxing on the beach.
The Abel Tasman Coast Track is not only a hiker’s paradise, but also a haven for those looking to explore the smallest national park in New Zealand, and create unforgettable memories amidst its captivating scenery.
Location and Access
The Abel Tasman Coast Track is located within the Abel Tasman National Park on the northeastern coast of the South Island of New Zealand.
This popular Great Walk attracts visitors from all around the world, offering a unique coastal experience with picturesque beaches and lush native forest.
Transport Options
There are several transport options available for those wanting to explore the Abel Tasman Coast Track.
The nearest towns to the park are Nelson and Motueka, which are well-connected by road and air to the rest of the country. Once you reach the region, you can choose from a range of transport providers to get to the start of the track.
These include:
- Water taxis: Offering shared and private charters, water taxis are a convenient and scenic way to access various track entry points as well as beaches and bays along the Coast Track.
- Buses: There are scheduled shuttle services and private transfers available to and from the track’s entrances.
Starting Points
Depending on the length of your walk and personal preferences, there are multiple starting points for the Abel Tasman Coast Track:
- Mārahau: The Southern gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park and the most popular starting point for the Great Walk. The track starts by crossing the estuary over the Marahau causeway.
- Totaranui: Some hikers choose to begin their walk at Totaranui, which is approximately 50 kilometers along the track, and can be accessed by water taxi.
Remember to book your accommodations and transport in advance, especially during the busy summer season, and always check for track updates and alerts from the Department of Conservation before embarking on your journey.
Track Highlights
Beaches
The Abel Tasman Coast Track offers numerous golden sand beaches perfect for relaxation and exploring.
The pristine coastline provides spectacular views and ample opportunities for swimming and sunbathing. Among the most popular beaches are Bark Bay, Onetahuti Beach, and Anchorage.
Wildlife
The track traverses lush native forests that are home to diverse wildlife. Along the way, you might spot native bird species such as the tui, bellbird, and weak.
In addition, seals can be observed around the Tonga Island Marine Reserve located along the Abel Tasman Coast Track.
Scenic Views
Throughout the hike, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of coastal landscapes and lush forests.
Several viewpoints along the route offer panoramic vistas of the Tasman Sea and the surrounding native bush.
Some of the most picturesque spots include the viewpoints at Separation Point, Wainui Bay, and the park’s famous Swing Bridge.
Hiking Itinerary
Duration
The Abel Tasman Coast Track can be completed in anywhere from 3-5 days, depending on your desired daily hiking distance and the time you want to allocate for enjoying the stunning coastal views and pristine beaches.
Track Sections
The track stretches approximately 60 kilometers, and several key sections and stops make up the full itinerary.
- Marahau to Anchorage (12.4km) – This section of the track begins at the Marahau entrance, taking you through lush native bush and across sandy beaches. Overnight accommodations are available at the Anchorage Hut or campsite.
- Anchorage to Bark Bay (8.7km) – This section involves crossing the Torrent Bay Estuary and a climb over a forested saddle, with magnificent views of the surrounding coastal landscape. Bark Bay offers a peaceful overnight stop with a hut and campsite.
- Bark Bay to Awaroa (11.4km) – This part of the track features various bays, beaches, and a crossing of the Onetahuti Beach. Awaroa offers overnight accommodation at the Awaroa Hut or a campsite.
- Awaroa to Whariwharangi (13km) – Continue through more untouched beaches and native forest before reaching the historic Whariwharangi Hut, a restored homestead where you can stay overnight.
- Whariwharangi to Wainui (5.7km) – The final section of the track takes you over a forested saddle, eventually leading to Wainui, where you can arrange transportation or complete a loop back towards Marahau.
Remember to plan your hike according to tides, as some sections may only be passable at low tide.
Keep in mind that huts and campsites along the track must be booked in advance, particularly during the peak season from October to April.
Accommodation and Facilities
The Abel Tasman Coast Track offers a range of accommodation and facilities to cater for different preferences and budgets.
Huts
There are several Department of Conservation (DOC) huts available along the track. These huts provide a comfortable place to stay, typically equipped with bunk beds, mattresses, potable water, and toilet facilities.
You will need to book a bed in advance as the huts can fill up quickly, especially during the peak season. Refer to the 100% Pure New Zealand website for more information on hut booking and pricing.
Campsites
For those who prefer a more immersive experience, the Abel Tasman coast offers various campsites along the track. The campsites range from basic to fully serviced facilities, including toilets, water supply, and picnic tables.
These campsites provide the ideal opportunity to connect with nature and experience a true New Zealand wilderness setting. Check out the Abel Tasman website for a comprehensive list and booking information for the campsites.
Additionally, there are private accommodation options such as luxury lodges and a unique floating backpacker lodge for a more upscale experience.
These options will allow you to enjoy the Abel Tasman Coast Track while indulging in extra amenities and comforts. See TripAdvisor for a list of hotels near Abel Tasman Coast Track.
Safety and Regulations
The Abel Tasman Coast Track is an incredible experience, but it’s essential to be aware of safety regulations and required permits.
In this section, we will discuss permits for visiting the park and staying in the huts, as well as weather considerations for your journey.
Permits
If you’re planning to stay overnight in the Abel Tasman National Park, a booking for huts or campsites is required during peak season, which is usually from late October until the end of April.
To obtain a permit, bookings can be made through the Department of Conservation (DOC). While walking the track itself is free, you will need to pay fees for the huts or campsites you’re using on your journey.
Weather
Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its golden beaches and scenic beauty. However, the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to be prepared for any situation.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, consider the Land Safety Code and always check the latest weather forecasts before setting off. While taking precautions, don’t forget to pack appropriate clothing for both warm and cold weather, as conditions can change quickly along the track.
Considering tide times and weather when planning your trip can help you avoid potential challenges along the way. Sections like the Awaroa estuary can only be accessed at low tide, so make sure to be aware of the tide tables and adjust your schedule accordingly.
Additional Activities
Aside from hiking the magnificent Abel Tasman Coast Track, visitors can participate in a variety of exciting activities to fully appreciate the beauty and natural wonders of the region.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a popular way to explore the coastal waters and beaches of Abel Tasman National Park.
This activity allows you to maneuver through the crystal-clear waters, visit secluded bays, and revel in the serenity of the picturesque surroundings. Companies like Nelson Tasman offer guided kayak tours, providing a different perspective of the region’s beauty.
Seal Watching
Abel Tasman National Park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including seals, penguins, and dolphins. Seal watching is a fantastic way to observe these creatures in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a boat tour or guided walk to discover the thriving marine wildlife and take in the splendor of the coastal environment.
As you plan your visit to Abel Tasman National Park and the Coast Track, remember to include these additional activities for a well-rounded and memorable experience.
