South Island

Abel Tasman National Park

Open in Google Maps

BUILD YOUR OWN TOUR

Excellent

109

START Or schedule a call on

Abel Tasman National Park is a stunning coastal reserve located at the northern end of New Zealand’s South Island. Known for its golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush native bush, Abel Tasman is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Location

Abel Tasman National Park is situated on the northern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, approximately 60 km northwest of Nelson and 245 km west of Picton.

Opening Hours

Abel Tasman National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, some services, such as water taxis and kayak rentals, may have limited operating hours during the winter months.

Highlights

Pristine golden sand beaches, such as Anchorage, Bark Bay, and Onetahuti
Iconic granite cliffs and rock formations, including Split Apple Rock
Diverse wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and native birds
Excellent hiking trails, including the Abel Tasman Coast Track
Opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, and sailing in the park’s turquoise waters

Activities

Hiking the Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks
Kayaking or sailing along the coast, exploring secluded beaches and bays
Snorkeling or swimming in the park’s crystal-clear waters
Wildlife spotting, including seals, dolphins, and native birds
Relaxing on the park’s stunning beaches or picnicking in scenic locations

Admission Fees

There is no admission fee to enter Abel Tasman National Park. However, fees apply for camping, huts, and some activities, such as guided tours and kayak rentals.

Facilities

Campsites and huts located throughout the park
Toilets and basic facilities at some campsites and beaches
Parking areas at the park’s main access points, such as Marahau and Totaranui
Visitor information centers in nearby towns, such as Motueka and Takaka
Water taxi and kayak rental services operating within the park

Accessibility

Due to the nature of the terrain, Abel Tasman National Park has limited accessibility for those with mobility challenges. Some sections of the Abel Tasman Coast Track are steep and uneven, and access to many beaches requires walking or boat transport. However, some shorter walks and beach areas may be more accessible. It is best to check with the Department of Conservation or local tour operators for specific accessibility information.

How to Get There

Abel Tasman National Park is accessible by car, bus, or air:

By car: approximately 1 hour drive from Nelson or 2.5 hours drive from Picton
By bus: regular bus services operate from Nelson and other nearby towns to the park’s main access points
By air: Nelson Airport is the closest major airport, with connecting shuttle services to the park

Nearby Attractions

Nelson and its vibrant arts and crafts scene
Golden Bay and Farewell Spit
Kahurangi National Park
Marlborough Sounds
Kaiteriteri and the Motueka region

Insider Tips

Plan your visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and mild weather
Book campsites, huts, and water taxi services well in advance, especially during the peak summer months
Pack insect repellent, as sandflies can be prevalent in some areas of the park
Consider a multi-day hike or kayak trip to fully immerse yourself in the park’s beauty
Don’t miss the opportunity to view the park from the water, either by kayak, sailboat, or water taxi

What Visitors Say

Visitors to Abel Tasman National Park consistently rave about the park’s stunning natural beauty, with many describing it as a paradise on earth. The combination of golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lush native bush creates a truly breathtaking landscape that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
For more highlights and tour reviews see real experiences from our guests: The Road Trip Testimonials.