Set out on one of New Zealand’s Great Walks with this ultimate solo traveler’s guide to the Abel Tasman Coast Track near Nelson, packed with tips and insights for an epic hike

Hiking the Abel Tasman Coast Track near Nelson on New Zealand’s South Island over 3 nights and 4 days was my very first solo, multi-day hike, done in a hut-to-hut style. It was an amazing trip, but it did require a fair bit of planning.

In this solo traveler’s guide to the Abel Tasman Coast Track, I will share everything I learned, including how to get there, where to stay, what to pack and much more – so that your own planning of this beautiful coast trek can be a breeze! True to myself, I will, of course, make it as budget-friendly as possible.

Welcome to your next adventure!

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Abel Tasman Coast Track Details

Hike Distance: Approximately 40 kilometers from Marahau to Awaroa, depending on the chosen route and where you decide to get the Water Taxi pick-up. If you hike to Totaranui, it’s another 7 kilometers, and if you complete the full Abel Tasman Coast Track it’s 60 kilometer.

Hike Duration: Abel Tasman Coast Track can be done in sections as a day hike, with various water taxi drop-off and pick-up points available. However, for the full experience, I’d recommend a multi-day hike. For me, three nights and four days provided everything and more, with the ease of hiking from hut to hut.

Hike Difficulty: Moderate. In my not-so-humble opinion, if you’ve got a pulse and a pair of legs, you can tackle the Abel Tasman Coast Track. I saw it all: young adventurers, spry elders, families herding their kids along. It’s a track for everyone.

Height Profile: Abel Tasman Coast Track does have its ups and downs, quite literally, but it’s nothing too strenuous. During the Marahau to Awaroa walk, which I will be describing in this post, the highest point you’ll meet is approximately 160 meters, making it possible for almost everyone to do.

What you need to know

Day Hike or Multi-Day Hike?

Whether you choose to do the Abel Tasman Coast Track as a day hike or a multi-day hike depends on your preferences, fitness level, and how much time you have available.

Day Hike

• If you’re short on time or prefer not to carry heavy overnight gear, a day hike is a great option.
• You can explore shorter sections of the track, such as from Marahau to Anchorage or Anchorage to Torrent Bay, and return on the same day. This is made possible by the Water Taxis that’ll drop you off or pick you up at most of the key beaches from Marahau to Tōtaranui. Depending on which stretch you go for, you might have to take tidal crossings into consideration.
• Day hikes allow you to experience the stunning coastal scenery, enjoy a swim at one of the many beaches, and perhaps even spot some wildlife, without the commitment of an overnight stay.

Multi-Day Hike

• Opting for a multi-day hike allows you to immerse yourself more fully in the beauty of the Abel Tasman National Park.
• You can cover longer sections of the track each day, staying at DOC huts or campsites along the way.
• This option gives you the opportunity to witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, explore more secluded beaches, and truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
• Keep in mind that multi-day hikes require more planning and preparation, including booking accommodations in advance and carrying all necessary gear and supplies.

Tidal Crossings on Abel Tasman Coast Track

The tide schedules are crucial. There are several tidal crossings on the Abel Tasman Coast Track, but only one is compulsory — the Awaroa Inlet.

Check out the tide tables for 2024/2025.

Low tide typically occurs twice a day and can generally be crossed two hours on either side of it.

Torrent Bay Estuary

• You can cross the Torrent Bay estuary within two hours on either side of low tide. If you miss that window, no worries—you can always take the all-tide track around it.

Bark Bay Estuary

• You can cross the stunning Bark Bay estuary within two hours on either side of low tide, or take the all-tide track around the edge, which takes about ten minutes.

Awaroa Inlet

• The final and crucial tidal crossing is the Awaroa Inlet. If you plan on hiking further than the Awaroa Hut towards Totaranui and Whariwharangi Bay, you need to cross here. It can also serve as a short-cut on your hike to the Awaroa Hut by wading through the estuary at low tide. Just follow the signs from the pizza place (yes, there’s a pizza place inside Abel Tasman National Park).

Abel Tasman Water Taxis

Book Ahead

• Reserve your Water Taxi to Abel Tasman National Park before starting your trek – this is pretty cruical as you might not have any phone coverage once on the track.
• Book online, visit shops in Marahau, or arrange through your accommodation.

Tight Schedule

• Water taxis run on a strict schedule, especially in winter when the days are shorter and the seas fickle.
• Make sure you know the first and last drop-off times; they can make or break your journey.

Key Beaches

• The Water Taxis hit all the essential beaches up to Tōtaranui and enables you to do part of the track as a day hike.

Pro Tip

• Don’t want to be lugging a heavy backpack doing your multi-day hike? I met an elderly couple who used the water taxis to carry their luggage, making their hike easier.

Leave No Trace

Pack in, pack out

• What you bring is with you all the way — even your garbage. Abel Tasman National Park operates on a ‘pack in, pack out’ principle, meaning any waste generated during your hike must be carried with you until you exit the park.

Opt for lightweight everything

• I’m talking lightweight gear, clothing, and food. It will make your journey that much more enjoyable without the burden of excess weight on your shoulders.

Leave Excess Luggage

Have excess luggage you don’t want to bring with you on the trek?

Storage Options

• The benefit of spending at least one night in Marahau before starting the Abel Tasman Coast Track — especially if you don’t have a car to leave your belongings in — is the opportunity to store your stuff at your accommodation.
• I stayed with The Barn Cabins & Camp and used their free outside lockers while hiking the Abel Tasman Coast Track (first come, first serve basis).

Limited Food Supplies in Abel Tasman National Park

Closest Supermarket

• The closest supermarket is in Motueka, which is 18 kilometers from Marahau.

Plan Ahead

• Do a big grocery haul in Nelson if planning to stay a few days in Marahau.
• Bring everything you need with you on the shuttle bus or in your car.

Limited Supplies

• The Barn Cabins & Camp has a small selection of groceries, but they are more expensive.
• A few restaurants are available in Marahau.

Rental Gear

Don’t have the proper hiking gear yourself? You can rent it.

I survived the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, subsisting mostly on canned goods for three nights and four days because I didn’t have a gas burner and didn’t want to invest in one at the moment. Would I have liked one? Sure. Was it manageable without? Absolutely.

Anyway, if you do find yourself lacking something specific that you think you’ll need on the trek, like a proper backpack, sleeping bag, tent, or portable stove like me, The Barns Cabin & Camp offers the option to rent it. Check out their selection here.

Connection and Reception in Abel Tasman National Park

No Power Outlets

• Huts and campsites are well-equipped but lack power outlets.
• Bring a good power bank to charge your devices.
• I rationed my phone battery by not taking too many photos and brought an old GoPro with me since I knew I’d want to document my journey on video.

WiFi in Abel Tasman National Park

Limited 4G Coverage:

• You most likely won’t have much 4G coverage along the track.

Free WiFi at Huts:

• Oddly enough, there is free WiFi at the huts.
• Allows you to unwind, but also stay connected if needed.

Reception in Marahau:

• I didn’t find any free WiFi in Marahau.
• I recommend getting an eSIM with Airalo so you can stay connected at all times.

Getting There

Nelson is the hub where most people stay before heading to Abel Tasman National Park. There are three ways to get from Nelson to Marahau, where you’ll start the Abel Tasman Coast Track.

Public Transport

Better Bus

• Cheapest and easiest option I found from Nelson to Marahau was with The Better Bus. I paid 35 NZD one-way and was picked up at YHA Nelson, then dropped off at The Barn Cabins & Camp in Marahau, making it super convenient.

Trek Express

• If you can’t find availability with The Better Bus, you can check out Trek Express, which offers a one-way trip to Marahau for 38 NZD. They also provide transfers to the northern start/end point at Wainui, if you wish to walk the coast track in the opposite direction of what I’m describing here.

Ebus and Golden Bay Coachlines

• There are two local bus services: The Ebus and the Golden Bay Coachlines. They won’t bring you all the way to Marahau, where you’ll start the Abel Tasman Coast Track, but they will bring you to Motueka, which is the city closest to Abel Tasman National Park. From Mouteka, you might be able to hitchhike the last stretch.

Note: These operators run daily during the summer months; however, over winter, there will be changes to the schedule. Please research if you plan on conquering the Abel Tasman Coast Track in the winter months.

Hitchhike

Hitchhiking is very popular in New Zealand, and I’ve done it myself a few times without any problems. You need a flexible schedule and good amount of patience for this. You might be lucky and get a car that goes straight to Marahau, or you might have to hitch several cars to go all the way.

Please use your judgment and hitchhike at your own risk.

Drive

Rental car

Want the freedom of car at your service while exploring the Abel Tasman National Park? I totally get it! Luckily there are many car rental options available in Nelson or Nelson airport.

For hassle-free car rentals in New Zealand, look no further than DiscoverCars. Enjoy flexible pickup and drop-off locations, excellent customer service, and the freedom to explore New Zealand at your own pace.

Parking

There are free parking spots provided by the Department of Conservation in Marahau, Totaranui, and Wainui. If you’re staying at a campground or hotel in Marahau, they will most likely let you park your car for the duration of your hike. Likewise, if you are using one of the water taxi operators, there’s a good chance that you can park your car for free with them for the duration of your hike.

Where to stay

Where to stay in Marahau

There are three budget-friendly places to stay in Marahau.

The Barn Cabins & Camp

Experience rustic charm at The Barn Cabins & Camp, where cozy cabins and campsites await amidst lush surroundings. Embrace the tranquility of nature while still enjoying modern comforts at this unique retreat.

Adventure Inn Marahau

Nestled in the heart of Marahau, Adventure Inn offers comfortable accommodations and warm hospitality. With its convenient location, it’s the ideal base camp for your Abel Tasman adventures.

Marahau Beach Camp

For those craving a seaside escape, Marahau Beach Camp delivers with its stunning coast views and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you prefer pitching a tent or parking your camper, this beachfront campground offers an unforgettable experience.

Note: Remember to look at the exact location of the hotel you want to book, as you might be getting results from Kaiteriteri and Motueka as well, which are not inside Abel Tasman National Park.

Where to stay in Abel Tasman National Park

Book in Advance

• If you plan on doing a multi-day hike on the Abel Tasman Coast Track you will need to stay in the huts or campsites along the way, and you need to book in advance!
• You can book through the Department of Conservation website here.

No Availability?

• Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of the Great Walks in New Zealand, which means it’s consistently popular year-round. People often book spots up to a year in advance. However, don’t be discouraged if you don’t see availability on the webpage initially. Spots tend to open up closer to the date.
• As a self-proclaimed last-minute person, I understand the struggle of booking in advance. I kept a close watch on the webpage over a few days, and when three consecutive huts became available, I seized the opportunity. This occurred less than two weeks in advance, in March 2024, which was past the peak summer season, likely contributing to the availability.

Huts on Abel Tasman Coast Track

Huts on the Abel Tasman Coast Track don’t have gas cooking facilities and lighting. Remember to take a portable stove and fuel, and candles with you. There are flush toilets, and water from tap, but it is recommended to treat the water before drinking it.

There are four huts on the Abel Tasman Coastal Track.

• Anchorage Hut offers 34 bunk beds
• Bark Bay Hut offers 34 bunk beds
• Awaroa Hut offers 26 bunks beds
• Whariwharangi Bay Hut offers 20 bunk beds

Camp Sites on Abel Tasman Coast Track

There are 18 campsites available along the Abel Tasman Coast Track. You can find the full list in the description on the DOC website.

Some campsites are more luxurious than others, offering tap water (which should be treated before drinking), flush toilets, shelters for cooking, and designated areas for campfires, while others are more primitive. You can find the specifications for each campsite on the DOC webpage.

Hut & Camp Site Prices

Prices for huts/camp sites vary depending on the season.

I paid 56 NZD per hut per night in March 2024 while camp sites were 24 NZD. However, the prices have been subject to change since July 2024. Currently, a hut costs 76 NZD per night, while camp sites are 28 NZD per night (High Season Prices)

You can find all the current prices here.

Note: Prices may be subject to change.

Packing List

This is everything I brought with me for my three-night, four-day hike on the Abel Tasman Coast Track. Could I have narrowed it down? Yes. But here it is anyway.

Personal Gear

• 36 Liter Backpack
• Bumbag
• Sleeping bag (Comfort Temperature 5 degrees)
• Water Bladder 1.5 L
• Foldable Water Bottle 0.5 L x 2
• Water Purification Tablets
• First Aid Kit

Clothing

• Wool Base Layer
• Fleece Shirt
• Sweatpants
• Leggings
• Shorts
• Long-Sleeved Top x 2
• T-Shirt
• Sports Bra
• Rain Jacket
• Rain Pants
• Hat
• Cap
• Gloves
• Woolen Socks x 2
• Hiking Shoes
• Crocs

Electronics

• Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra
• GoPro + two batteries
• Powerbank

Toiletries

• Sunscreen
• Moisturizer
• Lip Balm
• Toothpaste
• Toothbrush
• Baby Wipes

Other

• Crossword magazine
• E-Reader
• Rubbish bags
• Headlamp
• Earplugs
• Knife
• Small Cutting Board

Food

• Apples x 3
• Carrots x 3
• Peanut Butter Jar
• Dried Apricots
• Tuna Cans x 6
• Sandwich Bread
• Creamy Rice Dessert x 3
• Muesli Bars x 6

The Department of Conservation also made a suggested packing list for Abel Tasman Coast Track. Check it out here.

Full Cost Breakdown

Three Nights/Four Days on the Abel Tasman Coast Track

• Hut Accommodation per night: 56 NZD x 3
• Food: Approximately 55 NZD
• Total: 223 NZD

Marahau – Two Nights

I stayed in Marahau for two nights before starting the trek and one night upon returning. So, if I add this, the cost looks like this:

• Nelson-Marahau Shuttle: 35 NZD (one-way)
• The Barns Camp & Cabin, Girls Dorm per night: 35 NZD x 3
• Food: Approximately 55 NZD (had leftovers when leaving)
• Total: 195 NZD

3 Lessons I Learned on Abel Tasman Coast Track

Don’t carry too much water

I filled up my water bladders (2.5 liters each) every morning and hiked with them throughout the day. By the time I reached the huts, I often had some water left. Along the way, I discovered several places to refill my bottles, and if you have purification tablets, you can treat the water immediately. So, if I were to do this hike again, I would carry less water and refill more frequently.

Buy tuna sachets instead of cans

Since I didn’t have a gas burner with me, I essentially lived off tuna cans for lunch and dinner for three days. If you’re a hardcore budgeter like me, that’s doable. However, since you have to carry your garbage with you, that meant I had to carry my cans as well. I washed them and stored them in a plastic bag, but someone informed me that you can actually buy sachets instead of cans, which would have been much nicer to carry. This probably goes for other food than just tuna.

Don’t let the tides scare you away

If I have one regret after hiking the Abel Tasman Coast Track, it is not finishing the final stretch I had planned from Awaroa to Totaranui. I ended up skipping this part because I would have had to do the tidal crossing of the Awaroa Inlet alone at 4 am, which seemed a little scary to me. But in hindsight, I am fairly certain I would’ve been perfectly fine.

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My Experience

Day 1: Marahau to Anchorage

Time: Approximately 4 hr

Distance: -/+ 13 km

The distances on the Abel Tasman Coast Track are mercifully short, so I luxuriated in a slow morning at The Barn Cabins & Camp. Breakfast was simple: porridge and a big cup of coffee, the kind that jolts you awake and gets you moving.

As I set out, it didn’t take long before I had to fiddle with my sleeping bag, which I’d haphazardly strapped to the outside of my backpack. I was woefully underprepared for this hike, operating on a shoestring budget and a prayer. Improvisation was the name of the game, and today’s tool of choice was a piece of string to secure my wayward sleeping bag. Eventually, I found a way to attach it that didn’t have it smacking into my back with every step. And with that, I was off, ready to embrace whatever the trail threw at me.

The mornings in Marahau had proved to be quite brisk, so I set out wearing my long leggings and fleece. However, as I tramped along and the sun climbed higher in the sky, its warmth cutting through the cool air, I ducked behind a tree to swap my gear for shorts and a t-shirt.

With plenty of time to reach Anchorage before sunset, I took it slow. I savored every moment, stopping often to snap photos and soak in the unbelievably gorgeous views of this natural wonder. No rush, no schedule—just me and the raw, unfiltered beauty of the landscape.

There are several little side tracks on the trek between Marahau and Anchorage, offering views, coves, or beaches to relax at. When I reached Apple Tree Bay, it was the perfect spot to pause and refuel — you guessed it, I had a can of tuna on a piece of toast, but in that setting, it almost tasted like a gourmet meal. Apple Tree Bay buzzed with activity, water taxis zooming in and out, a vibrant hub nestled amidst the serenity of nature.

The trail twisted and turned inland, dipping into and out of a series of little gullies before rewarding me with a breathtaking view of Anchorage Bay. As I soaked it all in, I descended towards Anchorage Hut and Campsite, my next stop in this wild adventure.

I got out of my sweaty clothes and hung them to dry before I went for a dip at Anchorage Beach. It was cold as hell, but man, it felt amazing after hiking all day. That night, I spent chatting away with an elderly couple and a Kiwi family. Since many of these people were headed in the same direction as me, we would be spending more time together at the huts ahead.

Day 2: Anchorage to Bark Bay

High tide track

Time: 4 hr

Distance: -/+ 12 km

Waking up at Anchorage, I kicked off my day with a less-than-exciting breakfast of a soggy carrot and an apple smeared with peanut butter. With my bag packed, I hit the trail, aiming to follow the high tide track and squeeze in a visit to Cleopatra’s Pool along the way. Since they were doing maintenance on the track, I actually had to do a tide crossing here, balancing on some slippery rocks that I for sure thought was going to win. Despite feeling like a clumsy ballerina, I somehow made it to the other side, dry and intact.

Sidetrip: Cleopatra’s Pool

Cleopatra’s pool is a cool area of rocks, adorned with crystal-clear, refreshing water, that makes for a delightful swimming spot. I had it all to myself when I was there and took a moment to delve in the beauty of nature. Later, someone told me that there’s actually a natural water slide at Cleopatra’s pool, offering a thrilling entry into the cool waters. If you’re up for a bit of adventure and excitement, it’s definitely worth a try.

I ventured forth, encountering only a few other people in either direction. Upon reaching Torrent Village, which appeared to be a summerhouse area, I settled on the beach and devoured my lunch. You guessed it — a can of tuna on a piece of toast.

I felt a bit more tired today, with the weight of my backpack being the biggest culprit. I continued to explore most of the little side tracks, savoring the views, but towards the end, I simply longed to reach the hut and unwind. After securing myself a sleeping spot, I once again headed for a dip at the beach. However, this time, sandflies were eager to take a bite out of me, so I didn’t linger for long.

The grandmother of the Kiwi family, I’d been chatting with the previous night, inadvertently spread word among other hikers about my three-day tuna diet. Soon, a whisper floated through the campgrounds, painting me as a kind of wandering vagabond. Surprisingly, this newfound reputation led to generous offers of leftover gourmet dried meals from fellow trekkers. And me? Well, I’ve never been one to refuse free food, so that evening, I enjoyed not just tuna, but also a leftover risotto.

Day 3: Bark Bay to Awaroa

Time: 4 hr 30 min

Distance: -/+ 14 km

Last full day on the Abel Tasman Coast Track, and I was ready for it. I’d made a new solo-traveler friend in Bark Bay Hut, Mariana from Argentina, so she and I walked together.

We opted for the all-tide track around the estuary’s edge, adding just a mere 10 minutes to our journey. As we ascended a steep climb through the mānuka stands, Mariana, a horticulturist, shared with me her tale of how a stint at Bunnings ignited her passion for plant knowledge.

We waded through the sand at Onetahuti Bay, immersing ourselves in the serene expanse of one of the Abel Tasman’s longest beaches. From there, we tackled the forested Tonga Saddle, facing the junction just beyond its embrace. Two paths diverged: one leading onward along the main track, its undulating terrain promising eventual descent to Awaroa Hut. The other veering right, down a steep track, leading to somewhat of civilization in the form of a lodge and café. As we walked downhill, all I could think about was how excruciating it would be to climb back up.

We had heard rumors that you could get a pizza here, which Mariana did, but as you might have guessed, I had a can of tuna on a piece of toast. Yet, to soothe my longing for a caffeinated companion, I indulged in a post-meal cappuccino.

As it turns out, there’s a shortcut from here to Awaroa Hut if you time it with the low tide. So luckily for us, we didn’t have to climb back up. Instead, we simply took off our shoes and waded through the muddy inlet of Awaroa to reach our final destination on the Abel Tasman Coast Track.

There, we had an impromptu goodbye party as the Kiwi family I’d been chatting with the previous nights at the huts had friends bring them all sorts of goodies to the hut: cheese and crackers, watermelon, grapes, and wine. They offered all of us at the huts to indulge in this feast, so that night I didn’t even have to eat tuna.

Day 4: Water Taxi back to Marahau

Awaroa Hut to Awaroa Bay

Time: 1 hour

Distance: 4 km

Originally, I had grand plans to hike from Awaroa Hut to Totaranui on my last day along the Abel Tasman Coast Track, where I’d catch a water taxi. But when I consulted the tide tables, reality hit hard — I’d have to tackle the Awaroa Inlet solo, navigating inky darkness at 4 am if that were to happen.

The Department of Conservation advises against crossing when it’s not daylight as it’s dangerous, so I was torn. I really wanted to do it, but being myself made me extra cautious. If I had met other travelers doing the crossing in the early morning hours, I would’ve gone for it. In the end, I decided to be responsible and skip that stretch. Which meant that I would be getting the water taxi from Awaroa and heading back to Marahau.

I was getting the water taxi at noon, which meant I could have a slow morning at Awaroa Hut. As I munched on my last apple with peanut butter, I gazed at the hazy colors of the morning sky, reflecting on my journey. I marveled at the resilience of my body, which had carried me across this stunning landscape for 40 kilometers in recent days. Meeting an array of incredible people from around the globe and embarking on this breathtaking hike together filled me with gratitude. I wanted to do it all over again, already.

Mariana and I walked the last hour back to Awaroa Bay, where we would be picked up by the Water Taxi. As we cruised back to Marahau aboard the speedboat, we were met by a joyful pod of dolphins. “Is this a regular occurrence?” I asked our captain. He looked at me and responded, “No, you’re very lucky.” Indeed, I thought to myself, feeling the weight of our luck wash over me.

FAQ

What is the best section of Abel Tasman Coast Track?

Having finished ⅔ of the full Abel Tasman Coast Track, heading South to North,I’ve come to realize that every part of it has its charm. It’s not about where you start or finish, but about embracing each moment with a sense of wonder. Personally, my favorite leg of the journey was likely from Marahau to Anchorage, especially the final ascent towards Anchorage, which was gorgeous, and my evening dip at the beach.

How long does it take to walk the Abel Tasman Coast Track?

This depends on whether you want the full experience and do the 60-kilometer hike, or if you’re okay just doing parts of it. It’s also possible to cover more kilometers in a day than just the 10–15 kilometers that most people do, which would allow you to finish the whole thing in a shorter amount of time. But if you’re set on completing the 60-kilometer hike, I’d say you need 3-5 days.

Do you need to book Abel Tasman Coast Track?

Yes! It doesn’t matter what time of year you’re planning to go, whether it’s high season or low season, you need to book in advance. This can be done on the Department of Conservation’s webpage. If you arrive without a valid booking or stay at a hut or campsite different from the one named on your ticket, you will incur a penalty fee or may be asked to leave the park.

Is there water on Abel Tasman Coast Track?

Yes! There are plenty of spots where you can refill your bottles. Just remember that the water is from the tap and is untreated, which means that if you want to be 100 percent sure that you’re not catching some stomach bug with it, you have to either boil it for three minutes or use water purification tablets.

What is so special about Abel Tasman National Park?

Honestly, everything. The nature, the trekking, the people you meet, the memories you make. Just take a scroll through this guide, and I’m pretty sure I’ll have you convinced to go. You won’t regret it.