Abel Tasman Coast Track

New Zealand's most popular Great Walk, the Abel Tasman Coast Track, is a stunning coastal journey through golden sand beaches, lush native bush, and clear turquoise waters. This 60-kilometer track offers a perfect blend of easy walking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting, making it a must-do for any nature lover visiting the South Island.

Highlights & What to See

• Torrent Bay and Anchorage: Two of the most beautiful beaches along the track, perfect for swimming, picnicking, and spotting seals and dolphins.
• The Water Taxi Experience: Use water taxis to skip sections or start at different points, offering flexibility and a unique perspective of the coastline.
• Falls River Swing Bridge: A thrilling suspension bridge that offers fantastic views of the river and surrounding forest.
• Medlands Beach and Bark Bay: Idyllic golden sand coves with crystal-clear waters, ideal for a refreshing dip.
• Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for weka (native woodhens), fantails, and the occasional seal or little blue penguin.
• Onetahuti Beach: A stunning, remote beach with a tidal estuary that offers excellent birdwatching.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers take 3 to 5 days to complete the entire track, staying at Department of Conservation huts or campsites. However, shorter day walks, such as from Marahau to Anchorage, are popular and can be done in half a day. If you're short on time, combine a 1-2 hour walk with a water taxi ride to see the highlights without the full multi-day commitment.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Marahau: The gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, offering kayak rentals, accommodation, and the start of the Coast Track.
• Kaiteriteri: A beautiful beach town with golden sand, known for its boat cruises and water taxis into the park.
• Motueka: A larger town with more services, including supermarkets and accommodation, and a gateway to the park.
• Nelson: The nearest city, with a vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and the famous Nelson Market.
• Kahurangi National Park: A wilder, less-visited national park with the Heaphy Track and other Great Walks.

Please check official sources for current details.