Mārahau to Anchorage
The official 12.4 km southern gateway stage from Mārahau to Anchorage.
Route overview
Cross the Mārahau causeway and follow coastal forest and gullies to Anchorage Bay.
This stage begins at the principal southern trailhead and gradually leaves open estuary country for forested coastal terrain. It works as the first Great Walk day or as a one-way day hike when a pre-arranged water taxi supplies the return.
Trail facts
- Country
- New Zealand
- Region
- Southern Abel Tasman National Park
- Distance
- 12.4 km one way
- Typical duration
- approximately 4 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- null — not published
- Best season
- Year-round in suitable weather and daylight
- Trail type
- Point-to-point day walk or Great Walk stage
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No permit for a day walk; overnight use requires a valid Anchorage or intermediate campsite booking.
Safety context
Confirm return transport before starting, carry enough water and allow extra time for wet or muddy track conditions. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Missed water taxi, slippery track, exposed sun, untreated water and limited mobile coverage.
Highlights
Estuary causeway, beech and kānuka forest, small bays and Anchorage beach
Why find a buddy
Match on one-way transport, pace and whether the day ends at booked accommodation or a water-taxi pickup.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.