When I finished work this summer I had just one goal in mind: to head off-grid and spend some time disconnected from the world so that I could reconnect with nature. Preferably somewhere sunny. And the Abel Tasman National Park was the perfect place to do just that.
The Abel Tasman National Park is a wilderness reserve set at the very top of New Zealand‘s South Island, between the Golden Bay area and the Tasman sea. Here you can trek along a 60km coastal route, taking you through lush forests and past golden sand beaches: at times you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in the Mediterranean rather than New Zealand! The national park is a protected area, meaning it is perfect for wildlife spotting: we saw a plethora of birds including weka, fantails and kākā.
The Walk
We spread the 60km over five days and four nights so that we could take our time and enjoy the park, but you could do it more quickly if you want. However, I’d strongly suggest leaving enough time to visit Cleopatra’s Pools, where you’ll find a natural slip and slide down the rocks into the water (be warned though: it’s a bit chilly!). When you leave your bags make sure they’re securely fastened: a weka got into mine and stole a pack of biscuits (they can undo zips!). There are also a huge number of beaches to choose from throughout the park. My favourites were Stilwell Bay, Sandfly Bay and Goat Bay, and swimming in the sea was the perfect way to wash off the heat of the day.
Where to stay
We decided to opt for a true New Zealand experience and stay in the four huts (like Scottish bothies) along the route: Anchorage Hut, Bark Bay Hut, Awaroa Hut and Whariwharangi Hut. There are also numerous campsites if you can be bothered carrying a tent. If you want to really treat yourself, check in for a night at the Awaroa Lodge, a charming secluded hotel right in the centre of the national park.
What to pack
If you’re camping you’ll of course need to bring a tent, and even if you’re staying in huts you’ll still need to bring your own sleeping bag as bedding is not provided. You’ll also need to pack your own food and cooking equipment. There are some drinking water taps along the route where you can fill up: these are clearly marked as the water from other taps is untreated and will need to be boiled before use.
When to go
The Abel Tasman National Park is best enjoyed in the summer months (November – February) as this is when you can make the most of the endless sandy beaches. That’s not to say that you can’t do the hike in winter, as all the huts do have log burning stoves to keep them warm in the colder months.
How to get there
The easiest place to start the walk is at Marahau, an hour’s drive from Nelson. From there you can work your way north along the track to Totaranui or Whariwharangi. You can then get a water taxi back to Marahau or Kaiteriteri, or walk over to Wainui and get a shuttle. It’s worth noting that the water taxi can stop in at most of the bays (you’ll need to book) so you don’t have to walk the full track if you don’t want to. Many people just take the boat out for day trips to chill out on one of the beaches. You can also hire kayaks and paddle your way around the bays.
Where to visit next
The north of New Zealand’s south island is perhaps my favourite part of the country. Head over to Golden Bay / Takaka area for laid back vibes, and make sure to visit the stunning Wharariki beach!
[…] hiking the Abel Tasman coast track in November 2020, and peeking into the sumptuous comfort of Awaroa Lodge, a luxury hotel […]