The Ultimate Guide to the Abel Tasman Track

Hiking through the Abel Tasman Track brings an incomparable experience. Imagine feeling an extreme adrenaline rush as you walk through the 60-kilometre trail and witness the coastal paradise's breathtaking sights.

Start your Abel Tasman track exploration by reading this guide to the coastal Great Walk of New Zealand.

The Abel Tasman Track

Located on the northern edge of the South Island of New Zealand, the Abel Tasman National Park is famous for its enchanting beaches, glistening clear waters, picturesque rock formations, rich wildlife, and unique hiking trails.

The 37-mile Abel Tasman coastal track begins from the little seaside town of Marahau at the southern part of the national park.

The trail stretches northward, bringing hikers through the unique landscapes and azure bays. Reaching the spectacular Wainui Bay means the end of the hike, fulfilling the sense of adventure and accomplishment for hikers.

How to Get There

Reaching the coastal track is already the start of your exciting adventure. Hikers flying from across the country can take shuttle services or rental cars from Nelson Airport, which is a 1-hour drive.

Another alternative way to get to the Abel Tasman trail is to take the bus services connecting the nearby villages and cities to the track's starting point in Marahau. Foreign and local hikers can also access the tramp by car since an ample car park is available.

You can also take the water taxi to access different parts of the trail for a unique and thrilling way of reaching the track.

The Abel Tasman Accommodation

There is a wide array of options for the perfect Abel Tasman accommodation. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between staying in cosy huts or traditional campsites.

These calming sanctuaries offer excellent amenities, a relaxing atmosphere, and comfortable rests after long and fulfilling hikes. But, if you prefer a luxurious stay, you can opt for private lodges that provide delectable gourmet meals and breathtaking views.

Motels and holiday inns are also available in Marahau and Kaiteriteri for hikers and visitors who want to experience more convenience.

Top Activities to Do in the Abel Tasman Coastal Track

While famous for hiking, there are also other fun activities that you can do while exploring the Abel Tasman trail, like the ones we’ve curated below:

Invigorating Multi-day Guided Walk

The most sought-after activity on the trail, the multi-day guided hike brings you a unique journey throughout the coastal gem.

It is led by expert guides who will tour you around the trail, sharing fascinating stories, showing iconic landscapes, allowing you to reconnect with nature, and guiding you towards your cosy lodges and boat transport.

When it comes to guided walks, you can choose a particular hiking tour package with varying duration, itineraries, and accommodations.

Classic Freedom Walk

Hikers and explorers who wish to discover the hidden gems of the coastal track can opt for a freedom walk. They can independently appreciate and savour the wonders of the seaside paradise.

The best part of this type of hike is flexibility since hikers can walk at their own pace, navigate their trek, select their preferred stops, and choose their desired accommodations. This freedom hike will reignite environmental and personal connections you never knew you needed.

Thrilling Birdwatching

The Abel Tasman coastal trail is bliss for bird enthusiasts, with its rich avian life in the middle of a distinctive landscape. There are various native bird species that you can spot on the track, such as the popular native Weka, harmonious tui, rare kaka, and vigorous bellbird.

Hiking through the coastal haven will be filled with ecstatic bird-watching opportunities while listening to the melodic chirps and sounds of the track’s birdlife.

Fantastic Sightseeing

The Abel Tasman hiking trail offers an enjoyable visual feast for hikers. The track unveils a spectacle of golden sandy beaches with crystal clear azure waters that glisten when hit by the sun's rays, inviting hikers for a quick and refreshing dip.

There are also unique granite formations, incredible tidal pools, secluded coves, and panoramic viewpoints, which can make you appreciate the beauty of nature.

Amusing Beach-Hopping

Known for its pristine beaches, Abel Tasman offers an incredible hiking experience with views of its spectacular waters. These stunning beaches feature a unique contrast against the background of green lush forests.

Get the chance to bask in the sun’s warmth, play with the waves, and kayak in the clear azure waters in Torrent Bay, Medlands Beach, Bark Bay, and other shores on the trail. While you enjoy your time on the coast, don’t forget to wear your sunscreen and sunglasses.

Exciting Native Forest Exploration

Discover rich and diverse ecosystems in the Abel Tasman trail. Be in awe of walking on the forest floors covered with deep green moss while surrounded by towering ancient trees.

Explore deeper and enjoy their dense forest's lush tapestry and earthy aroma. You can also encounter the national park's vibrant and distinct terrestrial wildlife.

Serene Comfort Camping

Reconnect with nature and appreciate its beauty and uniqueness by going for a relaxing camp in the woods. Skipping luxurious huts and lodges for extraordinary comfort camping brings another beautiful outdoor experience.

There are distinguished camping sites on the trail, where hikers can stay for nights, equipped with shared hot showers, communal facilities, and accessible cooking areas. Trekkers can bring their tents and personal bedding on the tranquil and refreshing track for comfort and relaxation.

Explore the Abel Tasman Coastal Track with Us

Nothing can compare to the beauty of the Abel Tasman track and the fantastic experience that it offers. From its green and abundant forests to its glistening blue beaches, there is no wonder this trail is proudly acclaimed as one of the country’s Great Walks.

If you plan to visit this coastal haven, you can explore and hike with us. Book a schedule with New Zealand Walks today by contacting +64 3 5736655 or [email protected].

Posted by on November 16, 2023