Once you hit the ferry from Wellington to Picton you set foot in another world. One with golden beaches, snow-capped mountains, deep fjords, and endless wineries. Plenty of adventures are waiting for you. A must-do is the Abel Tasman National Park. We will tell you why and add 4 must do’s in this gorgeous region.
Abel Tasman National Park
You can spend days or weeks in this national park renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and its world-famous coast track. There is so much to do and to see. We will make it a bit easier by giving you 5 amazing things to do in the Abel Tasman National Park.
Abel Tasman Coastal Track
Feel golden sand between your toes when you cross one of the many amazing beaches on this track. Take in excellent views, go rock sliding in Cleopatra’s pool and spot young seals playing in the surf. Does life get any better than this? Probably not.
This 3 to 5-day track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. The track is well maintained. You can walk the whole track in either direction, take a water taxi or kayak between different locations.
It is also considered one of the easier Great Walks, with only a few hill-climbs along the way. There are a couple of tidal crossings, so take this into account when preparing your hike.
Kayak Tour in the National Park
Don’t fancy a multiple-day walk? You can get up-close and personal with Abel Tasman National Park and its marine wildlife by kayak. You can go on one of the kayak-tours or do a self-guided kayak hire. There are plenty of operators with half-day, full day and multiple day options. Be aware it gets very busy from late December until early February. So book well in advance.
Kayaking trips and hire operators can be found in Marahau, Kaiteriteri and Tata Beach in Golden Bay. You can also book a multiple-day trip with kayaking, hiking, and camping combined. The ultimate outdoor adventure.
Wainui Falls
On the Golden Bay side of the Abel Tasman National Park, you will find a very pretty waterfall. It is just a 1h20min return track through lush native forest with scattered granite boulders and a swing bridge leading to the cascading Wainui Falls.
The track begins from the car park at Wainui Bay. Look for the signpost about 300 m after crossing the Wainui River Bridge.
You will cross farmland for a short distance, then walk through a forest of nīkau palms, rātā trees, and ferns.
The track climbs rapidly alongside spectacular granite boulders, following the Wainui River. There’s a great suspension bridge on the way to the falls. You’ll know you’re close to the falls when you can hear the sound of rushing water. After you took some great shots from the cascading waterfall you will return via the same track.
This walk is popular with families and busy during the summer months. You might want to get an early start to beat the crowds.
Boat Tour
Well you know by now that Abel Tasman National Park is known for its beauty. It has virbant green native forstes, clear blue waters, golden beaches, and coves and swimming holes.
A boat tour is a great way to explore this national park without getting tired of walking or kayaking. You will see (most of the time) seals. And if you are lucky there will be some penguins and dolphins around too.
Boat tours depart from Kaiteriteri and Marahau. Book in advance especially during the summer season. You can find some great day trips here.
Our Favorite Abel Tasman Shirts
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Abel Tasman Shirt
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Abel Tasman T-shirt
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Abel Tasman T-shirt
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