Plan & prepare

Getting there

At 22,530 hectares Abel Tasman is New Zealand's smallest national park. It is located at the top of the South Island; the nearest towns are Motueka, Takaka and Kaiteriteri.

Roads lead to Marahau and Totaranui at either end of the coastal track (1.5 and 2.5 hours from Nelson) and provide access to the inland track system.

There are regular and on-demand bus services to the park from local towns and from Nelson as well as a launch and water taxi services.

Safety

If you are going to be using the track system in the park for overnight trips, make sure you are properly equipped and well prepared.

Everyone needs to carry a sleeping bag, cooking utensils, sufficient high-energy food (with some extra for emergencies), a waterproof raincoat, and warm (wool or fleece) clothing. A portable stove will also be needed. Firm footwear is recommended but boots are not necessary. Giardia has been found in park waters. Boiling, chemical treatment or filtering can remove it. Check for up-to-date information on weather and track conditions before starting your trip.

Looking after the park’s islands

The three largest islands in the park, Tonga, Adele and Fisherman, are home to many native plants and animal species which are either low in number or are no longer found on the nearby mainland.

Tonga Island, home to a seal breeding colony, is not suitable for public access.  Adele and Fisherman islands can be accessed by boat or kayak but do not have toilets and camping is not permitted. The nearest toilets are at Appletree Bay.

The islands have no non-native mammalian predators – please help keep them that way so they remain safe for native wildlife and plants living there.

If planning to visit Adele and Fisherman islands, please, before you go:

• Check boats, kayaks, all bags, containers and gear before going onto islands and ensure there are no mice, rats or other animals inside. 
• Ensure that all clothing, footwear and gear are free of soil and plant material, including seeds and foliage.
• Check there are no ants or spiders in food and gear you are taking with you.

On the islands:

• Dogs are not allowed on the islands and elsewhere in the national park.
• Do not light any fires, including barbecues and beach fires. Fire can cause devastating damage to wildlife and vegetation.
• Please take all rubbish with you when you leave the island.