Abel Tasman Coast Track
The Abel Tasman coast - golden bays, turquoise water, granite headlands and forest
The route
The line through Abel Tasman NP, New Zealand - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Waypoints
- 1MarahauTrailhead
South start
- 2Anchorage HutHut
Night 1; tidal crossing nearby
- 3Bark Bay HutHut
Night 2; estuary crossing (tidal)
- 4Awaroa (tidal crossing)Junction
Timed low-tide crossing
- 5Totaranui / WainuiTrailhead
North finish; water taxi
Season & conditions
Year-round (busiest Dec-Mar)
Generally mild; tidal timing is the key constraint
Open year-round; two tidal crossings must be timed to low tide. Confirm.
On the trail
Golden beaches, forest headlands and tidal estuary crossings
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Accessible to most walkers and families; not fully wheelchair accessible - confirm
NZ’s busiest Great Walk
Section-hike any stretch using water taxis; kayak-walk combos
Getting there & staying
Marahau (south) to Wainui/Totaranui (north)
Water taxis serve every beach - the classic section-hiking network
DOC Great Walk huts and campsites (booked); water-taxi bag transfers common
Layered outdoor kit, sturdy footwear, sun/rain protection, ample water; patchy mobile coverage - carry a map/PLB where remote
Services in Marahau; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
DOC Great Walk hut booking mandatory in season (fees higher for international visitors); sells out early - book at season opening. Confirm current fees.
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Mis-timing the tidal crossings, sun, boat logistics
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.