Abel Tasman Must Do's

TOP TIP: Water taxis depart both Kaiteriteri and Mārahau, calling at all the main beaches as far north as Tōtaranui, depositing passengers directly on the sand.

ABEL TASMAN GREAT WALK

This 60km one-way Great Walk covers achingly beautiful beaches, mermaid-worthy water and an exciting tidal crossing over the course of three to five days. Book early to secure the best DOC campsites and ocean fronting lodges.

THE BARN GLAMPING

Camp facilities at the very start of The Abel Tasman. Begin your park adventure the right way – or finish on a high! Stay in a beachfront bach, private cabin or dorm. Or pitch your tent right before the ocean.

BEACH HORSE RIDING

As the tide retreats, join Abel Tasman Horse Trekking for a horseback ride on Mārahau Beach. Suitable for every level, treks are tailored to stay in your comfort zone.

WAKA ABEL TASMAN

Following te reo Māori introductions, a hongi and waiata, push off from Kaiteriteri Beach in a traditional waka. Glide across the bay and learn about local Māori traditions as you journey to Toka Ngāwhā – Split Apple Rock.

WINE, ART AND WILDERNESS

Three days, three fully guided tours in three very different National Parks.

3-DAY CLASSIC GREAT WALK

Walk, swim, enjoy the banter of your company and your hosts handle the camp setup and cooking for you.

KAITERITERI MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK

Well-kept trails overlooking the ocean with a good range of tracks shaded under the tree line.

KAITERITERI

A seaside resort-like spot providing plenty of sea, sand and seclusion. This is another fab base for jaunts into the national park.

DAY SPA

Descend on Kimi Ora Eco Resort in Kaiteriteri, where you can knead away your every niggle with treatment packages for both resort guests and walk-ins.

CLEOPATRA’S POOL

On day two of the Abel Tasman Great Walk, a 20-minute side trip leads to an astounding emerald lagoon.

SPLIT APPLE ROCK

The most insta-famous rock in New Zealand, this giant orb is perfectly split in half. Sail to this ‘rockstar’ or snap it from the shoreline via the Towers Bay walking track.

Tokangawhā/Split Apple Rock, Kateriteri, credit AbelTasman.com

TONGA ISLAND MARINE RESERVE

Golden sands and small coves lend themselves to swimming and snorkelling. The best snorkelling is around the rocks between Tonga Quarry and Foul Point. If you kayak the reserve, you might get lucky and spot dolphins, seals and penguins.

BOAT TRIPS

Departing and returning Kaiteriteri, boat charters slice through the aqua blue waters, calling at beaches, coves and deserted motu.

OTHER MUST-DO’S

> Anchorage Beach

> Anapai Bay

> Torrent Bay

> Adele Island/Motuareronui

> Harwoods Hole

TOP TIP: Many scenic cruises and kayaking trips will take you into the heart of the Abel Tasman National Park for memorable day trips.

Kayaking in Abel Tasman, credit Lightstyle

Looking for a place to stay? Book your accommodation at aa.travel.co.nz