Abel Tasman National Park
Covers 22,541 ha of bush country along the shores of Tasman Bay in Nelson, including offshore islands and hundreds of bays and beaches along the broken coastline. The smallest of the country's 13 national parks, it was opened in December 1942, the 300th anniversary of the visit to Tasman Bay of Dutch explorer, Abel Janzoon Tasman, the first European to visit NZ. Botanically the park is of special interest because its bush is a blend of the natural cover of both the North and South Islands, a rare if not unique phenomenon.
Tramping through Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand
Things to do in Abel Tasman National Park:
- Walk the coastal track, which takes around 3 days and you can stay at DOC campsites.
- Use a water Taxi to go into the park for a one-day walk See the parks coast by sea kayak independently or on a guided tour
- Hike the hilly track through the inland part of the park
- Go snorkelling around the beach rocks
Reviews / Comments for Abel Tasman National Park
Rating Averages
Aug 9, 2010
Abel Tasman is best seen by kayak from the water, and is one of the best kayak trips in NZ. I would kayak Abel Tasman again, it was great. Make sure while you are in the area you catch a water taxi and go for a walk in the Marlborough Sounds.
+1 Aug 9, 2010
Abel Tasman: The drive from Fox is a long one. We started at 7am so managed just fine. The pancake rocks at Punakaiki were a great stop en route. Amazing rock formations with perfect views of coast and mountains. Stayed in the Ocean View Chalets in Marahau. Very nice place on the hills above Marahau and not too far out of 'town'. Max is a sweetheart. Tap water smelled like ham. Don't know why. Did an all-day 'marvelous middle' sea kayak trip with Marahau Sea Kayaks, the last family-owned outfit there. Sally was a great guide. Being this late in the season, it was just the two of us and her. Got up close with lots of seals and beautiful beaches. Abel Tasman was pretty, but after so much jaw-dropping scenery in Milford and along the west coast drive, we weren't blown away. The big swells and chilly weather might be responsible too. Hooked on Marahau Cafe provided an excellent and memorable meal of lamb chops.
+0 Aug 9, 2010
Abel Tasman has everything for the outdoor minded person. Fantastic sea kayaking, half day trips to multiple nights. Some of the countries most scenic mountain biking, rock climbing and more.Its one of my favourite beautiful spots and a definite must see and do while here in NZ.
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