When I think of a holiday to New Zealand, I am not picturing a city escape (sorry Auckland), but rather…spending my time enjoying such stunning natural surrounds as found in the Abel Tasman National Park. Situated on the northern tip of the South Island, this region enjoys a mild climate, plenty of golden sand beaches, turquoise waters, lush native bush, and easy access from both the North Island Ferry Terminal and nearby Nelson Airport.
No Ubers or Didi to be found here…. instead picture a water taxi and a beach picnic. Sounds good doesn’t it?
At 22,000 hectares the Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s smallest national park. It is also the only coastal national park. The Māori people lived along this coast for over 500 years, gathering food from the sea and forest. Today, we can walk in their footsteps and experience the breathtaking beauty of this much-loved park.
The Abel Tasman Coastal Track is one of New Zealand’s 9 great walks. The Track hugs the gorgeous coastline, and rewards walkers with magnificent views. Soak up this iconic track by doing a half-day, full day or 3-5 day walk on this 60km coastline stretch. If a walking adventure is not your thing, then take to the water on a kayak to explore the multitude of bays, inlets and picturesque beach stretches that make it the premier kayaking destination it is. For those of us that like to take it easy, then the water taxi is definetly the way to go. There are 6 coastal points the water taxi can drop you off or collect you after a day exploring the bays or walking part of the track.
Further afield, combine your Abel Tasman visit with some great places close by such as Nelson, an artistic paradise, and of course the Marlborough wine region, NZ’s flagship wine destination. Perhaps stay in a cottage on a vineyard for a few days R&R after your coastal walk?
Here are some of the key things to do:
Abel Tasman Coastal Track: The highlights include the golden sand beaches, Cleopatra’s pool which is a natural rock pool with a moss-lined water slide. Walk the 47m suspension bridge with views of the beautiful inlet to Falls River. The Coastal Track has tent-camping sites and Department of Conservation huts dotted regularly along its entire length. Bookings are essential for overnight stays. You can choose to walk independently or with a tour provider who can offer a combination of walking and kayaking. For more information please click here
Kayak: You can rent your own kayak and explore under your own steam. Alternatively, book a guided trip which allows you to tap into the knowledge of an experienced local guide and expert kayak instructor. Make sure to visit the seal sanctuary and Split Apple Rock.
Water Taxi: The Abel Tasman Coastal Track is one-way, so for those of us that don’t like back-tracking a water taxi is a perfect way to enjoy the Abel Tasman from a different perspective and return to your starting point. If you are short on time, the water taxi is a great option to get out to a bay for a shorter walk, swim at a secluded beach, enjoy a picnic lunch and back again in a day.
Make sure to add the Abel Tasman National Park region to your wish list for your next New Zealand holiday. I know it is tough to decide where to go…. But this is one area not to be missed. Expect to enjoy a top New Zealand experience!
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