New Zealand is known for its stunning natural beauty, and the Abel Tasman National Park is no exception. Located on the northern coast of the South Island, the park is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Here, visitors can enjoy miles of golden sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush forests teeming with wildlife.
Who Was Abel Tasman?
Abel Tasman was a Dutch explorer who discovered New Zealand in 1642. He was the first European to make contact with the indigenous Maori people and named the area “Staten Landt” after the Dutch States-General. However, he did not make landfall in the area that is now the Abel Tasman National Park. The park was named in his honour in 1942, on the 300th anniversary of his voyage to New Zealand.
Things to Do in the Area
The Abel Tasman National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the activities you can enjoy in the area:
- Hiking: The Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, a 60-kilometre trail that winds through the park’s coastal forests and along its pristine beaches. It takes three to five days to complete the walk, and hikers can camp along the way or stay in lodges.
- Kayaking: Paddling a kayak along the park’s coastline is an excellent way to explore the area’s coves, beaches, and islands. You can rent a kayak or take a guided tour.
- Wildlife Watching: The Abel Tasman National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and penguins. You can take a guided tour to see these animals up close.
- Scenic Flights: Seeing the park from the air is an unforgettable experience. You can take a scenic flight from Nelson or Motueka.
- Snorkeling and Diving: The Abel Tasman National Park is home to a variety of marine life, and snorkelling or diving in its crystal-clear waters is a great way to see them up close. You can rent snorkelling gear or take a guided diving tour.
- Sailing and Boating: The park’s sheltered bays and coves make it a popular destination for sailing and boating. You can rent a sailboat or take a guided tour.
- Fishing: The park’s waters are home to a variety of fish, including snapper, kingfish, and blue cod. You can hire a fishing charter or bring your own gear and try your luck.
Where to Stay
The Abel Tasman National Park has several options for accommodation, including campsites, lodges, and cabins. Here are some of the popular places to stay:
- Awaroa Lodge: This lodge is located in a secluded bay in the heart of the park and is accessible only by water taxi or walking.
- Torrent Bay Lodge: This lodge is located on the beach and offers stunning views of the park.
- Campsites: There are several campsites in the park, including Totaranui, Anchorage, and Bark Bay. You can book these sites in advance online.
- Marahau Beach Camp: This campsite is located at the entrance to the park and is a great base for exploring the area. It has powered and non-powered sites, as well as cabins.
- Kaiteriteri Beach Camp: This campsite is located near the park’s southern entrance and is a popular spot for families. It has powered and non-powered sites, as well as cabins.
- Abel Tasman Village: This village is located near the park’s northern entrance and has several accommodation options, including lodges and apartments.
The Great Walk
The Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, a network of premier hiking tracks that offer visitors an opportunity to experience the country’s natural beauty up close. The track takes hikers through the park’s coastal forests and along its pristine beaches. It’s a moderate walk that takes three to five days to complete, and hikers can camp along the way or stay in lodges. The track is well-maintained and has several rest areas and toilets along the way.
History of the Abel Tasman National Park
The area that is now the Abel Tasman National Park has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The park is home to several Maori pa sites, which are fortified villages that were built on strategic hilltops. These pa sites were used for defence and as places of refuge during times of conflict.
In the early 19th century, European explorers began to arrive in the area, and the first European settlement was established at the mouth of the Awaroa River in 1844. The settlement was short-lived, however, and was abandoned a few years later.
In the early 1900s, the area was logged extensively, and the forests were nearly destroyed. In 1942, the land was purchased by the government and was declared a national park in honour of Abel Tasman’s discovery of New Zealand. Today, the park is a protected area that is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Abel Tasman National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. With its golden sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush forests, it’s no wonder that it’s a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re hiking the Great Walk, kayaking along the coastline, or just relaxing on the beach, the park has something for everyone. So if you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, be sure to include the Abel Tasman National Park on your itinerary.
