5 of the Top Things to Do in Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman is one of our favourite New Zealand national parks. As the smallest (22,530 hectares/55,673 acres), it is like the younger sibling to New Zealand’s twelve other national parks. It can often be overlooked in favour of Fiordland National Park and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. However, therein lies its appeal... it’s less mainstream. Plus, it boasts a mild climate all year-round! You won’t be short of activities to entertain you in this incredible landscape. We’ve rounded up five of our favourite activities to keep you busy in Abel Tasman National Park.

 

1. Paddle the pristine coastline

Take to the water in a kayak to explore all the nooks and crannies of the Abel Tasman coastline. A kayaking mission will immerse you in this wild and rugged environment, allow you to witness the wildlife, the curves, seams and caves of the coastline and engage your body as you paddle along the turquoise waters. Here, you’ll find peace and tranquillity as you dock your boat at Adele or Fisherman to tuck into your lunch. Or if you get a permit, you can head to the stunning marine reserve of Tonga Island.

 

2. Ride the trails on a mountain-bike

For those mountain-biking fanatics, you’ll find nirvana here with miles and miles of purpose-built tracks to challenge and enthral you. One of the most popular ones is the 20 km (12.4 mile) single track, The Rameka Track. The Gibbs Hill Track makes for another fun ride. Also, just on the outskirts of Abel Tasman National Park, there’s the awesome Kaiteriteri Mountain Biking Park.

 

3. Conquer the trails on foot

The easiest and most accessible way to explore Abel Tasman is to go for a stroll. The national park is home to one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks, the Abel Tasman Coast Track. This 60km (37.3 miles) multi-day hike which stretches from Wainui to Marahau is a stunner.

 

If you only have the day to spend exploring there are plenty of tracks to meander. There’s the 2.9km (1.8 miles) trail to Harwoods Hole, an insane 357 metre deep sinkhole! The Wainui Falls Track is another option for a short stroll. It’s roughly a one hour, 20-minute return journey. Finally, if you are looking for something a bit longer and more challenging, there’s Gibbs Hill Track. It’s a shared use track in winter so just watch out for mountain bikers.

 

4. Explore the world beneath the waves

 

Just wait until you see the bustling world under water! If you are a water baby and love nothing more than a swimming or snorkelling adventure, put this place on your hit list. Tonga Island Marine Reserve in Abel Tasman National Park is teeming with life. Crayfish, moki, snapper, seahorses and stingrays are just some of the majestic creatures you’ll meet beneath the waves. For great snorkelling spots, check out Anchorage, Tonga Quarry and Foul Point. Or just go bathe in the pristine waters anywhere in this wonderful haven.

 

5. Spend a night beneath the stars

There are few things in life that are as life-affirming and soul-soothing as a night spent sleeping under the stars. Choose a spot in a quiet cove or corner of the vast coastline. Pitch your tent or roll out your bivvy beneath the stars. There are plenty of tent sites that you can book on the DOC website. Fill your day with thrilling adventures, then seek out your little corner of paradise to spend the night in perfect isolation in the wild.

 

Check out our full guide to exploring Abel Tasman National Park.