Abel Tasman National Park

"Lush forests, sandy beaches and turquoise lagoons vie for attention along Abel Tasman's crinkle-cut coast - one of New Zealand's top kayaking locations. The national park boasts some of the country's finest beaches (many accessible only by hiking trails or by boat) so chances are you'll be waylaid by at least one crescent of gorgeous sand". - William Gray, Sunday Times Travel UK, March 2010.

The Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand's only coastal national park – and its golden sandy beaches and clear turquoise water make it one of the most popular. The sheltered bays are popular for cruising, sailing and sea kayaking. On land, the Abel Tasman Coast Track follows the coastline through lush native bush, over limestone cliffs and along golden sandy beaches. This is one of the Department of Conservation's "Great Walks". The 53km track can be walked in its entirety over three to five days. Smaller sections of the track can be easily accessed by the network of water taxis operating from Kaiteriteri and Marahau in the southern end of the park, and Totaranui at the northern end.

The Tonga Island Marine Reserve prevents fishing within a designated zone within the park. It is here the Tonga Island NZ fur seals delight visitors as they frolic and glide sleekly through the clear water.

There are no roads within the Abel Tasman National Park, and access is either on foot from Marahau at the South of the park, or Wainui Bay to the north or by water taxi using one of the many transport and activity providers who operate in the park.