Abel Tasman National Park is a coastal paradise located in the South Island of New Zealand.
It is the smallest national park in the country, but it is perfectly formed for relaxation and adventure. The park is easily accessible by land, water, or air, with tour operators aplenty offering cruises, water taxi services, kayaking options, heli-tours, and sailing catamarans.
One of the main attractions of the park is the Abel Tasman Coast Track, which is a 60-kilometer trail that takes 3-5 days to complete. The track offers stunning views of the golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and lush coastal native bush. There are four huts and 18 campsites along the track, which must be booked in advance all year round. Visitors arriving without a valid booking or staying at a hut or campsite other than the one named on their ticket will be charged a penalty fee or may be asked to leave the park. For those with only a day to see Abel Tasman National Park, water taxi companies can provide a personalized mix of sightseeing by boat and track walking. It’s easy to arrange pick-up or drop-off points at various points along the tracks. Pre-booking is advised.
The park is also renowned for its protected coastline, but it’s impossible to guarantee the conditions. It is important to check the weather forecast before planning any activities. Sea kayaking is a popular way to explore the park, but it’s important to check the conditions before heading out. For a different view of the park, there are inland tracks that lead up to the dramatic karst landscape of Takaka Hill. The park’s islands, Tonga, Adele, and Fisherman, are home to many native plants and animal species, which are either low in number or are no longer found on the nearby mainland. Visitors are reminded to take care of the park’s islands by not lighting any fires, including barbecues and beach fires. Fire can cause devastating damage to wildlife and vegetation. Visitors are also reminded to take all rubbish with them when they leave the island.
In summary, Abel Tasman National Park is a must-visit destination in New Zealand. With its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and lush coastal native bush, it offers a unique experience for visitors. Whether you choose to explore the park from land, on the water, or in the air, there is something for everyone.