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Abel Tasman National Park, located on the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island, is a breathtaking natural wonder known for its golden sandy beaches, lush native forests, and crystal-clear waters. The park covers 22,530 hectares of land and is one of the most popular destinations in New Zealand, offering a perfect blend of hiking, beach activities, and scenic views. Named after the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, the park is a true gem of the Nelson region, attracting both local and international visitors every year.
Reaching Abel Tasman National Park is relatively easy from Nelson, which is about a 1-hour drive away. If you're coming from Nelson, you can take State Highway 6, heading north towards the park. The drive is scenic, offering beautiful views of the Tasman Bay, the surrounding mountains, and rural landscapes.
If you're traveling from further away, the nearest major city is Christchurch, which is about 4.5 hours by car. Alternatively, Nelson has its own regional airport, so you can take a flight into Nelson and then drive or take a shuttle to the park. Once you're at the park, the easiest way to get around is by foot, kayak, or boat, as the park is not accessible by road in many areas.
The weather in Abel Tasman National Park is mild and relatively temperate, thanks to its location near the coast. Summers (December to February) are warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 20掳C to 25掳C (68掳F to 77掳F), making it the peak season for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and swimming. The beach areas can get quite busy during these months, so it鈥檚 best to book accommodation and tours in advance.
Winter (June to August) is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 8掳C to 15掳C (46掳F to 59掳F). While the weather is still mild compared to other parts of New Zealand, there is more rainfall during this period. This can make for a quieter and more peaceful experience, with fewer tourists. Regardless of the season, the weather can be unpredictable, so it鈥檚 always a good idea to pack for changing conditions.
Abel Tasman National Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (December to February), when the weather is warmer and perfect for outdoor activities. The park sees a lot of visitors during this time, so it鈥檚 advisable to book ahead for accommodations and guided tours.
Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are also great times to visit, as the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer compared to the summer months. If you prefer a more tranquil experience with fewer tourists, these seasons might be ideal. Winter (June to August) is quieter but colder and wetter, so it is best suited for those looking to enjoy the peacefulness of the park without the crowds.
Abel Tasman National Park is famous for its spectacular natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and recreational activities. It is most well-known for its stunning golden beaches, clear turquoise waters, and rugged cliffs that create a picturesque coastal setting. The park is also famous for its scenic hiking trails, including the Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of New Zealand鈥檚 "Great Walks". This track is a 60-kilometer trail that runs from Marahau to Wainui, offering visitors the opportunity to explore lush forests, secluded beaches, and serene estuaries.
In addition to hiking, the park is also known for water-based activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and boat tours. The clear waters around the park make it an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling, and you might even spot wildlife such as seals and dolphins. Abel Tasman National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Abel Tasman National Park is free to visit, though certain activities such as guided tours, boat cruises, and kayak rentals require a fee. The main entrance to the park is located at Marahau, a small village that serves as the gateway to the park. From here, visitors can access the Abel Tasman Coast Track and other walking tracks, as well as boat or kayak trips to various parts of the park.
The park is well-equipped with facilities such as toilets, picnic areas, and campsites, particularly near popular spots like Marahau and Anchorage Bay. There are also several lodges and accommodation options within or near the park, ranging from basic campsites to more luxurious beachfront resorts. It's a good idea to plan ahead, especially during the busy summer season, to secure your accommodations.
Abel Tasman National Park has a rich history that dates back thousands of years to the M膩ori, who were the first to inhabit the area. M膩ori used the coastal regions of the park for fishing, gathering shellfish, and living in settlements. The area was also significant in M膩ori mythology, with many sites throughout the park holding cultural importance.
European exploration of the area began in 1642 when Dutch explorer Abel Tasman first arrived in New Zealand. He named the region "M膩ori Bay" after his first encounter with the M膩ori people, although it was not until later that the area gained recognition as a national park. Abel Tasman National Park was established in 1942 as New Zealand's first national park, and it remains one of the country鈥檚 most pristine and popular natural reserves.
The park itself is largely untouched, with little human infrastructure outside of the walking tracks, campsites, and designated accommodations. This means visitors get to experience the landscape much like it was centuries ago, offering an authentic wilderness experience.
Abel Tasman National Park offers a wide range of activities for all types of travelers, whether you're an adventure enthusiast or someone seeking relaxation.
20 Day Ultimate New Zealand Experience Tour January 2019
20 Days/ 19 Night
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