Explore Abel Tasman National Park – Coastal Wilderness in New Zealand

Discover Abel Tasman National Park:
Walking tracks, huts & campsites, coastline, climate, and visitor access.

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Discover the Magic of Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park is a gem of New Zealand’s South Island, a coastal sanctuary of golden beaches, native bush, and rolling hills.

Whether you’re here to walk the famous Abel Tasman National Park track, camp beneath the stars, or simply soak in the park’s natural beauty, this is your guide to everything the park offers.

Plan Your Abel Tasman National Park Trip
Calm river surrounded by native forest in the Abel Tasman region
Clear river with kayaks and a footbridge in native forest
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Walking the Abel Tasman National Park Coastal Track

The Abel Tasman National Park Coast Track stretches approximately 60 km from Mārahau in the south to Wainui (or Tōtaranui) in the north.

Walkers can choose to hike the full great walk (typically 3–5 days) or enjoy shorter day-walk segments.

The track passes through native bush, rugged headlands, and sheltered estuaries.
There are a few tidal crossings, particularly at Awaroa Inlet, so check tide timetables before you go.
Side‐trips include hidden gems like Cascade Falls and Cleopatra’s Pool.
Abel Tasman National Park Walks
Clear river with kayaks and a footbridge in native forest
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Abel Tasman National Park Camping & Huts

To stay overnight within the park, you have a few options:

DOC Huts: There are 4 backcountry huts located along the coast track. Anchorage, Bark Bay, Awaroa, and Whariwharangi.
Campsites: There are 19 campsites that are distributed along the track.
Private Lodges: For more comfort, stay at Awaroa Lodge or private beachfront lodges such as Torrent Bay Lodge.

All DOC huts and campsites must be booked in advance, and you need to carry your own cooking gear as there are no cooking facilities in the huts.

Still lagoon surrounded by native bush in the Abel Tasman region
Low-tide beach with rippled sand and clear water in Abel Tasman
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Highlights & Beaches of Abel Tasman National Park

Apple Tree Bay: Crystal-clear water, a tidal estuary, and a beautiful campsite.
Coquille Bay: A crescent-shaped golden beach fringed with native bush.
Tōtaranui: One of the largest and most iconic beaches in the park, with a major campsite (up to 250 people) and easy access by water taxi or road.
Awaroa Inlet: Scenic tidal inlet. Please note that the crossing is only safe around low tide windows.

Abel Tasman National Park Access & Climate

Getting In

The main access points to the park are Mārahau (south) and Tōtaranui (north).

Climate

Summer: In summer the park is warm and sunny with average daytime temperatures between 20C to 25C (68F to 77F). This is the peak tourist season and can get quite busy.

Autumn:  In autumn it is still warm enough for activities like swimming, with average daytime temperatures between 17C to 21C (62F to 70F). Mild and pleasant weather with relatively calmer waters, making it perfect for kayaking.

Winter: In winter days are often crisp with morning temperatures dropping to 4C (39F), and average daytime temperatures between 12C to 16C (53F to 61F). Fewer crowds at this time of year.

Spring: Early Spring can bring some rain with average daily temperatures between 16C to 19C (61F to 66F). A great time to visit if you want to spot newborn seals and other wildlife.

Best Time to Visit

Summer is popular for walking and camping, but spring and autumn also offer quieter trails and comfortable weather. However, it is well worth visiting Abel Tasman National Park all year round.

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Turquoise water and native forest coastline in Abel Tasman National Park
Sea Shuttle water taxi landing on a sandy beach in Abel Tasman National Park
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Abel Tasman National Park Activities (More Than Just Walking)

Cruising & Water Taxi: Explore the coastline by boat with a water taxi that connects you to key points (Mārahau, Anchorage, Tōtaranui). Use Abel Tasman Sea Shuttles for reliable access, drop-offs, and pick-ups.
Canyoning: For the adventurous, parts of the park’s inland river systems offer canyoning opportunities.
Wildlife & Nature: The park is home to native birdlife and coastal forest species.
Book Your Abel Tasman National Park Water Taxi

Abel Tasman National Park Safety & Track Etiquette

Tide Awareness: As mentioned, some inlets require careful timing around low tide.
Water Safety: Treat or boil water when camping and staying in huts.
Toilets & Waste: Toilets are available at all huts, campsites, and car parks. Pack up all rubbish and waste and take it with you.
Respect Wildlife: Stay on marked trails, be considerate of nesting birds, and minimise noise.
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Two people sea kayaking in the Abel Tasman national park coast

Why You Should Visit the Abel Tasman National Park

Accessible Wilderness:

You can hike, kayak, or combine the two, and water taxis make navigation easy.

Scenic Diversity:

From golden beaches to lush bush, there’s incredible variety in terrain.

Flexible Options:

Walk for a few hours, do a multi-day trek, or stay in a hut or campsite.

Well Supported:

Guided tour companies and established logistics make even multi-day trips easier.

Conservation & Experience:

As a managed national park, it balances visitor experience with preserving native ecosystems.

Book Your Abel Tasman National Park Adventure

Frequently Asked Questions

No permit is required to enter, but bookings are mandatory for DOC huts and campsites.

You must use designated DOC campsites only.

The summer season (October–April) is busiest, but spring and autumn are ideal for fewer crowds and good weather.

No, crossings are only safe 1.5 hours before to 2 hours after low tide.

Yes, Awaroa Lodge and a couple of beachfront lodges are available, plus nearby backpacker-style options.

Ready to Explore Abel Tasman National Park?

Your adventure begins the moment you plan your trip. Whether you’re walking, camping, cruising, or combining all three, use Abel Tasman Sea Shuttles to get into the heart of the Abel Tasman National park with ease.

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