Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park is located on the northern end of the southern island of New Zealand and includes some of the islands off the mainland. The park lies between Golden Bay and Tasman Bay. The national park boundaries encompass an area of 91.5 square miles (237.1 sq km) making it the smallest national park within the country of New Zealand.

Tata Island, Tonga Island, Adele Island and Fisherman Island are all within the boundaries of the Abel Tasman protected area. The Riwaka and Takaka rivers flow north into the bays and create a valley which is surrounded by forested hills. The forested hills are beautiful and added to the scenery.

The beaches along the coastline of the national park are renowned for picturesque scenery. They make for a nice place to relax, play, or hike along the shore. Wainui Falls is the tallest waterfall within the park reaching a height of 66 feet (20 m) and treks to it are a popular way to explore the park and see some of the best facets of nature.

Although not known for its wildlife, penguins, herons, shags, and terns are some of the more prevalent birds in the park. Deer, goats, possum, and wild pigs are some of the animals that may be seen.  A wildlife sighting will only add to the exquisite natural experience.

Photos

Abel Tasman National Park Photo Gallery

Highlights

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a 37 mile (60 km) long trek along the coast of the national park. It runs between the cities of Marahau in the south to Wainui in the north. This is one of the most popular adventures attracting locals and visitors for an escape into nature while getting some exercise at the same time.

Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore the shoreline and neighboring islands that are part of the national park.

Abel Tasman National Park Trails

There are numerous trails ranging from easy to difficult traversing across and throughout the national park.  This is one of the best ways to experience all that is available to be explored.

Wainui Falls Trail

This is an easy 2-mile (3.21 km) hike that meanders through the forests to the base of a beautiful waterfall known as Wainui Falls. There is an elevation gain of 341 feet (107 m). This is one of the highlights of the park as it is the tallest waterfall in the park.

Pitt Head Lookout Trail

This is a short and easy 0.8-mile (1.28 km) hike up 170 feet (51.8 m) to a lookout over the ocean and coastline. It is a striking view and one of the most popular trails.

Yellow Point Trail

This is a moderate rated trail with an elevation gain of 1,906 feet (580.8 km) over 9.3 miles (15 km).  The trail meanders up the coastline with views over beaches, rocky coastline, and beautiful ocean waters. There are chances of seeing wildlife along the way.

Totaranui Beach Trail

This is a moderate rated trail that travels 4.8 miles (7.7 km) giving access to view from above while getting down to the beach and getting your feet into the sand. It is a beautiful sandy beach and makes for a great place to relax and enjoy the ocean waters following your hike.

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