A travellers guide to Abel Tasman National Park

It’s time for a summer road trip and we know the perfect place to explore this kiwi summer. At the very top of the South Island, you will find an area of New Zealand so pristine that it has got to be seen to be believed.

The South Island of New Zealand is easily identified by its snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and ski resort towns however it is also home to some of the best looking beaches in the world and they are yours to explore.

Abel Tasman National Park is a tropical paradise on the South Island in New Zealand. Way back in 1642, the first European to sight New Zealand anchored up in Golden Bay, naming the park after himself. The wilderness reserve stretches over 237 km2 and is renowned for the tropical rainforest, golden beaches, and beautiful blue waters, a park for all seasons, and every kind of adventure.

Why you should visit Abel Tasman Park?

The real question is why haven’t you visited yet? This sub-tropical wonderland is an easily accessible coastal paradise and should sit firmly on your South Island road trip itinerary. With a plethora of ways to explore and enjoy the park on land, from the water, or even from high in the sky you will never be too far from your next Abel Tasman activity.

We are talking about secluded beaches, tiny coastal beach towns, epic views, clear waters, and wildlife aplenty. There is so much to do in the Abel Tasman National park that a week-long trip just doesn’t seem long enough. When travelling in a campervan you have the freedom to roam and explore until your heart's content and we highly suggest packing up and heading into paradise this summer. Abel Tasman National Park may be the smallest of all the National Parks in New Zealand but it sure makes up for this with its good looks, coastal charm, and epic vibes.

When to go?

The Nelson Tasman region enjoys a moderate climate all year round. You can also expect to find the highest annual sunshine hours in the entire country right here, we told you it was a tropical paradise.

Peak summer months start in December and end in February with average daily temps of 20-25 degrees, Abel Tasman is the nation's answer to the pacific islands. During the daytime expect to see the beaches peppered with people and summertime goodness radiating through the region. With long warm days and mild evenings, it’s the ideal season for a visit.

Even during the peak period, it's possible to find a secluded slice of the national park in the form of a beach or section of bush, you might just have to explore a little deeper to seek it out.

March through to May carries milder temps but is still good enough for swimming and other water sports. March often brings the most stable weather patterns and is a good temperature for longer multi-day hikes.

There is never a bad time to explore Abel Tasman National park, take our word for it.

What to do in the Abel Tasman National Park?

Explore the beaches

Abel Tasman is not a single beach but a number of iconic beautiful bays, all of which feature pristine golden sand with a lush native forest backdrop. Kaiteriteri Beach is cited as the finest of beaches in the region with its unique golden colour and clear blue waters. This is also the most accessible beach and very popular in the summer months. Check out Torrent Bay, Bark Bay, and Wharariki Beach over in Golden Bay too, undoubtedly one of the most photographed beaches in the Nelson Tasman region.

Kayak in pristine ocean waters

Easily one of the best places to kayak in the whole country with picture-perfect scenes, incredible warm waters, and an abundance of marine life, you might just never leave. Jump on a tour with the crew at Abel Tasman kayaks for a one-day or multi-day kayak adventure to some of the most untouched places in the whole of New Zealand. Discover private coves and wake up with the sun in your very own ocean-front campsite. Keep an eye out for the pods of resident bottlenose dolphins and seals that frequent the area. A truly unforgettable experience.

Hike the Abel Tasman Great Walk

Did you know that New Zealand has 12 Great Walks? These are multi-day hiking trails with the best scenery on offer. The Abel Tasman Great walk can be enjoyed over three days or you can hop on a water taxi, get dropped at a secluded bay, and hike your way out for a day adventure. The trail is well marked, easy to follow, and accessible for all ages and abilities. Pack a picnic and enjoy the side trails down to deserted coves, take a dip in the ocean and be sure to reward yourself with a locally made real fruit ice cream or cheeky beverage at the end.

Head over the hill

The Takaka Hill is a mountain pass connecting one side of the national park to the other and it is well worth your time. This zig-zagging highway is the gateway over to farewell spit and Golden Bay, home to the famous and heavily photographed Wharariki Beach. From here you can camp, explore, hike, seal spot and even jump on a helicopter tour over the national park. Sounds epic right? That’s because it is. Take your time to explore this area, book a night in a campsite and truly immerse yourself in the magic of Abel Tasman.

Where to stay?

Campervan road trippers unite we have compiled a list of some epic camp spots peppered throughout the park.

Marahau Beach Camp

If you are looking for classic kiwi camping you will find it right here. Proud to be a zero-carbon campsite and seconds away from the ocean, you will be hard-pressed to find a more peaceful pitch. Surrounded by trees the beach camp offers everything from campsites to beer gardens, perfect after a day exploring the region.

$40 per person, per night || Powered and non-powered sites

Central amenities block, free Wi-Fi, pet friendly, BBQ’s and playground

55 powered campsites and onsite shop, bar, and café.

Motueka TOP 10 Holiday Park.

Motueka or ‘Mot’ to the locals is the entrance to the stunning Abel Tasman national park. This town is the closest ‘major’ centre to the park and is well serviced with shops and just about all you need for your Abel Tas road trip. The perfect base for an adventure here in the Nelson Tasman region.

$30 per person, per night || Powered and non-powered sites

Amenities block, free WIFI, pet friendly, swimming pool, and BBQ area

All in all, accommodation in Motueka doesn’t get much better.

Wharariki Beach Holiday Park

One of New Zealand's most treasured areas and home to the rugged, beautiful coastline is Wharariki beach. Park up for the night in this secluded paradise. Visit the beach when everyone else leaves and soak up some of the most magical sunsets of your life.

$25 per person, per night || Powered and non-powered sites

Communal Amenities block, kitchen, and lounge area. Outdoor BBQ’s and playground.

A wide range of facilities for everyone.

Check out some more Abel Tasman National Park camping grounds .

The Abel Tasman will have you coming back again and again. Looking to hit the road on a kiwi summer road trip this year? Check out the vans available in your area and start planning your next adventure.