With its clear blue waters and golden beaches there’s a hint of the Carribean about the Abel Tasman National Park. Located at the very top of the South Island, the park enjoys a mild climate and lots of sunshine – making it a great place to visit all year round. Here are a few of its highlights…
The Abel Tasman Coast Track
One of DOC’s Great Walks, this is a 51km, three to five day walk along empty beaches, sandy estuaries and sheltered coves. There are various huts and campsites to stay at along the way (must be pre-booked with DOC in advance.)
Sea kayaking
Sea kayaking is a fantastic way to explore the coastline of the park. If you fancy cruising the waters, we offer a number of guided tours including a one day kayak and walking tour, a two-day kayak and catered camping tour and a three-day kayak and catered camping tour. Think: leisurely paddling, stunning scenery, up close and personal encounters with the local wildlife and all your meals taken care of.
Totaranui Campground
This gem of a campsite is located right next to a beautiful beach in the north of the park, around two and a half hours drive from Nelson. It’s a great spot to swim, kayak, snorkel and fish and offers easy access to the Abel Tasman Coast Track and other walks. Advance bookings are a must in the middle of summer and you’re advised to phone and check availability before making the drive out.
Mountain biking
Until recently, mountain biking was prohibited in the park. However two tracks are now available:
1) Gibbs Hill Track is a combined walking and mountain bike track that links Wainui, Gibbs Hill and Totaranui campground. Mountain biking is only allowed from 1 May to 30 September. It’s a 23km, grade 3 circuit.
2) The Rameka Track starts from the Harwood’s Hole car park at Takaka Hill, one and a half hours drive west of Nelson, and ends in the town of Takaka. It throws up a great mix of single track, creek crossings and steep downhill descents, as well as spectacular views of Golden Bay and the Abel Tasman National Park. Riding one-way to Takaka is around 20km – you’ll either need to leave a second car at Takaka or be prepared for a 2-3 hour ride back to your starting point. It’s considered a grade two to three ride.
Abel Tasman is a great destination to head to with your campervan. If you fancy a spot of road tripping this summer, we’ve got a great range of campervans available for hire:
https://www.naturalhigh.co.nz/camper-hire/
Have a great week,
Andrew Hunt
