Abel Tasman National Park

Known for its golden sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush coastal forests, Abel Tasman is a paradise for kayaking, sailing, and walking. Visitors...

Abel Tasman National Park at a Glance

Location
Northern & Western South Island, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-40.889930, 172.950780
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Abel Tasman National Park

Nearest airport: Unknown Airport, 7 km away.

Nearest international airport: Wellington Airport (WLG), 163 km away.

Weather & Climate in Abel Tasman National Park

The warmest temperatures in Abel Tasman National Park occur in January, averaging 14.7°C (up to 19.2°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 5.2°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in January with average rainfall of 87.1mm. Average humidity: 76.0%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 14.7°C (rainfall: 87.1mm)
  • February: 14.0°C (rainfall: 170.7mm)
  • March: 11.9°C (rainfall: 140.6mm)
  • April: 10.1°C (rainfall: 144.9mm)
  • May: 7.9°C (rainfall: 226.8mm)
  • June: 6.5°C (rainfall: 199.1mm)
  • July: 5.2°C (rainfall: 210.5mm)
  • August: 5.7°C (rainfall: 276.8mm)
  • September: 7.1°C (rainfall: 157.5mm)
  • October: 8.8°C (rainfall: 215.1mm)
  • November: 10.9°C (rainfall: 184.8mm)
  • December: 13.2°C (rainfall: 178.0mm)

Best Time to Visit Abel Tasman National Park

The best months to visit Abel Tasman National Park are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 14.65°C, rainfall 87.1mm, sunshine 12.2 hrs, humidity 76%
  • February: Poor, temperature 14°C, rainfall 170.7mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 80.2%
  • March: Poor, temperature 11.94°C, rainfall 140.6mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 81.3%
  • April: Poor, temperature 10.08°C, rainfall 144.9mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 84.7%
  • May: Poor, temperature 7.86°C, rainfall 226.8mm, sunshine 6.9 hrs, humidity 86.7%
  • June: Poor, temperature 6.48°C, rainfall 199.1mm, sunshine 6.4 hrs, humidity 87.3%
  • July: Poor, temperature 5.16°C, rainfall 210.5mm, sunshine 6.8 hrs, humidity 85.5%
  • August: Poor, temperature 5.7°C, rainfall 276.8mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 85.4%
  • September: Poor, temperature 7.11°C, rainfall 157.5mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 81.6%
  • October: Poor, temperature 8.78°C, rainfall 215.1mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 81.7%
  • November: Poor, temperature 10.93°C, rainfall 184.8mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 81.6%
  • December: Poor, temperature 13.22°C, rainfall 178mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 81.3%

Wildlife in Abel Tasman National Park

Home to 27 recorded species including 20 waterbirds, 2 iconic birds, 2 birds of prey, 2 tropical birds, 1 marine & freshwater.

Recommended Packing List for Abel Tasman National Park

Based on average temperature of 9.7°C, typical conditions, humidity 83%.

  • Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 10°C require warm insulation
  • Warm hat & gloves - critical for early morning game drives
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Abel Tasman National Park

50 safari lodges available.

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Similar Parks in Northern & Western South Island

Visitor Tips - Abel Tasman National Park

We love Abel Tasman for its unparalleled blend of golden sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush coastal forest. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in nature, whether you're kayaking past seal colonies or hiking the iconic Coastal Track. The sunsets over the Tasman Sea are sensational, painting the sky with vibrant hues that feel both wild and serene.

Gate Times

Abel Tasman National Park is generally open 24/7 for track access, but we strongly recommend planning around water taxi schedules, which typically run from early morning to late afternoon, especially during peak season (December-February). Book your water taxis and any hut or campsite accommodation well in advance, as these fill up quickly. There are no formal 'gate times' like a safari park, but access points like Marahau and Kaiteriteri have visitor centres with specific operating hours for information and bookings.

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in New Zealand, and you won't be expected to tip guides, water taxi operators, or park staff. We recommend expressing your appreciation through a sincere 'thank you' or a positive review for exceptional service.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for New Zealand

Travel advisory for New Zealand

Abel Tasman National Park FAQs

When is the best time of year to visit Abel Tasman National Park for its unique marine activities?

The ideal time to experience Abel Tasman's kayaking, sailing, and walking trails is during the New Zealand summer, from December to February, when the weather is warmest and waters are calmest. Spring (September-November) and Autumn (March-May) also offer pleasant conditions with fewer crowds, perfect for marine wildlife spotting.

How do I access Abel Tasman National Park, and what are the main entry points for exploring its coastal tracks and beaches?

The park is primarily accessed via water taxis from gateway towns like Kaiteriteri or Marahau, which serve as the main hubs for reaching the Abel Tasman Coast Track and various secluded beaches. You can drive to these towns and then embark on your chosen water-based or walking adventure.

What are the typical costs associated with a multi-day adventure in Abel Tasman, considering its focus on water activities and walking?

Costs vary significantly based on your chosen activities; expect to budget for essential water taxi fares, kayak or paddleboard rentals, and potentially guided tours. Accommodation ranges from Department of Conservation (DOC) huts and campsites (requiring advance booking) to private lodges outside the park, influencing overall expenses.

Beyond the common fur seals and seabirds, what specific marine wildlife encounters can I hope for in Abel Tasman's turquoise waters?

While fur seals are frequently seen, lucky visitors might spot bottlenose dolphins playing in the bays or even orcas migrating through the Tasman Bay during certain seasons. Keep an eye out for the elusive little blue penguins returning to shore at dusk, particularly around protected coves.

Given Abel Tasman is described as a "safari park," what specific safety precautions should I take, especially regarding its coastal environment in New Zealand?

Despite the "safari park" label, Abel Tasman is a national park in New Zealand, meaning there is no malaria risk. Focus on coastal safety: be prepared for changing weather, carry adequate water and sun protection, and always check tidal charts before embarking on walks or water activities to avoid being cut off.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.