Abel Tasman National Park Coastal Walk
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Abel Tasman National Park Coastal Walk

Walk a section of the famous Abel Tasman Coast Track — New Zealand's most popular Great Walk — through native bush to golden sand beaches.

  1. 1

    Marahau Water Taxi Jetty

    Water taxis from Marahau, 1 hour from Nelson, drop hikers at various points along the coast — allowing one-way walks back through the national park.

  2. 2

    Anchorage Beach

    The stunning Anchorage Beach is a perfect crescent of golden sand in a sheltered bay — a reward for the first section of the coastal walk.

  3. 3

    Observation Beach

    A quieter beach accessed by a short detour, where New Zealand fur seals often haul out on the rocks and little blue penguins nest in the coastal scrub.

  4. 4

    Bark Bay Swing Bridge

    The historic swing bridge at Bark Bay tidal estuary is one of the iconic landmarks of the Abel Tasman track — a bridge over golden sand and clear water.

  5. 5

    Tonga Island Marine Reserve

    The marine reserve offshore protects one of NZ's largest fur seal colonies — boat trips and kayaks can approach the colony for unforgettable wildlife viewing.

  6. 6

    Marahau Estuary Return

    The return to Marahau crosses a tidal estuary on a series of boardwalks — timing the crossing with the tide reveals rich birdlife in the mangrove channels.

#beaches