• Abel Tasman Information

    Abel Tasman Information

Famous for its golden beaches, turquoise waters and spectacular scenery New Zealand’s smallest and most accessible national park is a quietly beautiful place to explore.

Kayaking here is considered the best in New Zealand and the coastal track is part of the New Zealand Great Walk network. Whatever option or combination of options you choose the Abel Tasman National Park will leave lasting memories.

History

Covering 22,530 ha the Abel Tasman opened 19 December 1942, but its history spans more than 600 years.

Many people have left their mark on the Abel Tasman and this rich history comes alive as you explore the park, from names or geographical features it is a content rich place to explore.  Project Janszoon is a privately funded trust set up to restore and preserve the Abel Tasman’s rich wildlife for all to enjoy. They have captured beautifully the history of the park and the role that people have had shaping what we now know as the Abel Tasman. Project Janszoon have kindly given us permission to send you to their website which also highlights the ongoing ecological and conservation work happening in the park of which Abel Tasman Kayaks supports in kind and through its contributions to the Abel Tasman Birdsong Trust.

For more info about the park, it’s history, native species and fascinating stories you can also download the free Abel Tasman app. Search Abel Tasman in your Google Play or App store.

Abel Tasman Coastline

 

Video produced by Bare Kiwi

Abel Tasman wildlife

Video produced by Bare Kiwi

 

What our customers say

The day kayak/walk was the highlight of our trip, we loved it (even the teenagers!). Darryl our guide was fantastic - he was so informative, knowledgeable and had lots of yarns to tell along the way. With no prior kayak experience, the paddle in the morning was a perfect amount of time on the water. The walk to Anchorage and then the Pitt Head loop... read more


SunHol1

We did the 2 night 3 day ‘remote coast overnighter’ option, with the first day a guided kayak through the marine reserve, followed by two nights walking out of the park, camping at the end of the kayaking day at Bark Bay and the second night at Anchorage. Both campsites were stunning beaches as all of them are. Bark Bay was camping on the sand back from the beach,... read more


Greer7

Our guide was great, super knowledgeable and brought lots of positive energy.
The views were amazing, we saw lots of wildlife and with the high tide we paddled through 3 beautiful lagoons.
The lunch was also delicious!


Saraandaaron

We booked the Seal Sanctuary tour and were not disappointed. We saw many seals on our trip and then explored some of the coastline in the park before lunch. Our guide Nicole was knowledgeable about the area and the wildlife as well as providing ideas of what to do for the afternoon and in other cities in NZ that we planned to visit. I would definitely recommend Abel Tasman... read more


JackieB1234567

We had a brilliant time on our Abel Tasman Kayaks trip. We had Darryl looking after our group (my partner and me, a family and a single). He was very competent, entertaining and also really knowledgeable about the birdlife, bush, sealife and history of the area. He also adapted the day based on the conditions to ensure we had the best possible time. The kayaks were in good nick... read more


laura_25252

Had a great day out kayaking with our guide, Amber. The day was perfect, I didn't even notice time passing just enjoyed every moment and never felt like any aspect of the day was too rushed or too long. The lunch provided was delicious and we took our time kayaking around Adele island talking about the history, wildlife, and seal spotting. Sounds like there is always something going on there... read more


975caitlinf

#ABELTASMANKAYAKS

Drifting through granite caves⛰️🚣‍♀️

...
 #nelsontasman #abeltasmankayaks
The wonders of Tonga Island Marine Reserve🐠 established in 1993 go beyond marine life— Tonga Island in the marine reserve makes for that quintessential Abel Tasman pic! 📸
Gearing up for the adventure ahead! 🌟🚣‍♀️
A sea breeze makes for a fun end to the day, kayak sailing ⛵ is a real highlight for customers kayaking back towards Marahau. 

#abeltasmankayaks
Watching the sun come up ☀️
Last day to vote for the bird of the century! This year, #birdoftheyear has become 
#birdofthecentury. We're rooting for the Kaka! 🐦 With 35 released into the Abel Tasman, they add their distinctive call and color to Bark Bay and its surrounds.

#BirdOfTheYear
Memories about to be created in the Abel Tasman. 📸
The Abel Tasman National Park is the smallest national park in New Zealand, it's the perfect location for half-day or five-day explorations!
There are plenty of moments to soak it all in. 

#abeltasmankayaks
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