Abel Tasman Coast Track
Tasman District
The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a renowned 60-kilometer walking trail within New Zealand's Abel Tasman National Park, extending from Mārahau in the south to Wainui in the north. It is one of the country's most popular hiking routes, characterized by well-maintained paths, sheltered coastal scenery, and mild weather throughout the year. The track features a mix of sandy beaches, estuaries, and native forests, offering hikers diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. Key highlights include tidal estuaries, a 47-meter swing bridge over Falls River, and natural attractions like Cleopatra's Pool, a moss-lined natural rock pool with a waterslide. The trail can be completed in 3 to 5 days, with various access points allowing shorter day hikes. Accommodation options range from Department of Conservation campsites and huts to commercial lodges and boat stays, all requiring advance booking during peak seasons. The track's tidal crossings require careful planning around low tides for safety. Visitors often combine walking with sea kayaking to explore the protected coastline. The trail is part of New Zealand's Great Walks, reflecting its outstanding natural beauty and accessibility.
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Tip: The best time to visit the Abel Tasman Coast Track is year-round due to its mild climate, but booking accommodation in advance is essential during peak months. Use commercial water taxis to access different sections for flexible day walks. Be sure to plan around tidal schedules for estuary crossings, especially if walking independently. Consider combining hiking with sea kayaking for a unique coastal experience. Carry sufficient water and reserve official campsites or huts ahead of your trip.
Interesting facts
- •The track is the most popular tramping trail in New Zealand, with around 200,000 visitors annually.
- •It features one of New Zealand's largest tidal ranges, requiring careful timing for estuary crossings.
- •The 47-meter swing bridge over Falls River is a notable highlight for hikers.
- •Cleopatra's Pool is a natural moss-lined rock pool with a natural waterslide accessible via a side track from Anchorage Bay.
- •Commercial water taxis operate regularly between Mārahau and Tōtaranui, facilitating flexible access to the track.
History
The Abel Tasman Coast Track lies within Abel Tasman National Park, established in 1942 to protect the region's unique coastal ecosystems.
The track has evolved into one of New Zealand's Great Walks, reflecting its importance for recreation and conservation.
Over time, infrastructure improvements like swing bridges and well-maintained huts have enhanced accessibility.
The area was named after Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, who first sighted New Zealand in 1642, and the park preserves both natural and cultural heritage.
Place Guide
Mārahau to Anchorage Bay
This 12.4 km section starts at Mārahau, the only settlement on the track, featuring a DOC information centre and shops. The path passes estuaries, small bays like Tinline and Apple Tree Bay, and scenic views of Fisherman and Adele Islands. Anchorage Bay offers the largest hut and campsite with filtered drinking water and access to Cleopatra's Pool, a natural rock pool with a moss-lined waterslide.
Anchorage Bay to Bark Bay
This 8.4 km section leads mostly inland through coastal forest and crosses the first of three estuaries at Torrent Bay. The estuary can be crossed at low tide or bypassed via a longer high tide track. The terrain is gentle, featuring the notable 47-meter swing bridge over Falls River and views of Frenchman Bay.
Bark Bay to Awaroa Inlet
Spanning 13.5 km, this section runs largely through manuka forest with limited sea views. It passes the coast backing the Tonga Island Marine Reserve and crosses another tidal estuary at Bark Bay, with an all-tide track option. The trail includes a walk along Onetahuti Bay's wide sandy beach, views of Tonga Island, and a climb over Tonga Saddle to Awaroa Bay.