Abel Tasman Coast Track

Route overview

Coastal walk through Abel Tasman National Park linking golden beaches and forest bays from Wainui to Marahau.

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is New Zealand's shortest and most popular Great Walk, covering 60 kilometres through Abel Tasman National Park in the Nelson–Tasman region. The trail runs from Wainui Bay in the north to Marahau in the south along one of New Zealand's most scenic coastlines, characterised by golden sandy beaches, sheltered coves, and clear turquoise water. The track is a genuine multi-day coastal walk through coastal forest, crossing estuaries that are tidal — sections near Awaroa Inlet require careful timing around high tide, and DOC provides tidal crossing times to all hut bookers. Water taxis operate between Marahau and various points along the coast, allowing walkers to customise shorter sections or skip ahead by boat. The moderate terrain and consistently beautiful scenery make the Abel Tasman ideal for less experienced multi-day walkers or those wanting a first-time Great Walk experience. The combination of accessible huts, water taxi flexibility, and consistent weather (the Nelson region receives some of…

Trail facts

Country

New Zealand

Region

Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson–Tasman

Distance

60 km

Typical duration

3–5 days

Difficulty

Moderate

Elevation gain

1,200 m cumulative

Best season

October–April

Trail type

Point-to-point

Access and logistics

Bookings

Great Walk hut and campsite bookings are mandatory and available from DOC (doc.govt.nz). Water taxi bookings should be made simultaneously with hut bookings.

Safety context

Awaroa Inlet tidal crossing must be timed carefully — crossing at high tide is dangerous. Check DOC tide tables before the relevant day. Sunburn is a significant risk in the Nelson region.

Huts and campsites book out extremely early for the peak season (November–March). Book as far in advance as possible. Sand flies are numerous in sheltered areas — insect repellent is essential.

Highlights

Golden beach coves Awaroa tidal estuary crossing Adele Island wildlife sanctuary views Clear turquoise water swimming Coastal forest birds (tūī, kererū) Water taxi access from multiple points

Why find a buddy

The combination of beach swimming, shared meals in huts, and evening light on the water makes the Abel Tasman one of New Zealand's most sociable trails — genuinely best experienced with company.

Primary source

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