Fair allocation process for commercial activities in Abel Tasman and Kaiteriteri
DOC has finalised the allocation process for new land and water-based concessions in Abel Tasman National Park, Abel Tasman Foreshore Scenic Reserve and Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve.

Background

All land and water-based commercial activity on public conservation land requires a concession issued by DOC. The management plans for the Abel Tasman National Park, Abel Tasman Foreshore Scenic Reserve (gazetted as Abel Tasman Scenic Reserve) and Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve specify limits on the amount of commercial activity at each of these locations. Limiting concession activity aims to protect conservation values and recreation experiences.

Existing concessions for the following types of activity within the Abel Tasman National Park/Abel Tasman Scenic Reserve and Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve are due to expire on 30 April 2027:

  • Water-based activities including guided kayaking, guided waka trips, water taxi, charter boats, cruise ship activity and floating accommodation in the Abel Tasman Foreshore Scenic Reserve/Abel Tasman Scenic Reserve.
  • Land-based guided walking on the Abel Tasman Coast Track and associated facility use in the Abel Tasman National Park.
  • Water-based activities including guided kayaking, water taxi, charter boats, SUP, and waka ama in the Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve.

DOC has considered the future of these concession types in a fair and consistent manner, by way of a competitive allocation process.

Applications for concession allocations

Applications for concession allocations in Abel Tasman and Kaiteriteri allocation process have been considered and this part of the process is concluded.

Applications were assessed by an independent assessment panel against published criteria:

  • operator experience
  • impacts on and benefits to conservation
  • recognising Treaty rights and interests
  • offerings to visitors
  • benefits to the local area.

Applicants were required to meet a minimum score to receive an allocation. Each criteria was ranked out of 10 with a possible maximum overall score of 50. For each criteria the applicant had to score five or more, equating to an minimum score of 25.

DOC used the Panel’s report to inform decisions about allocations: Abel Tasman and Kaiteriteri assessment panel report (PDF, 317K)

Securing an allocation does not guarantee a concession – both are required to operate. DOC will now process the concessions applications for the awarded allocations.

Operators can transfer or trade allocations, but all changes must be reported to DOC so the system can be monitored effectively.

Key dates

  • 10 November 2025: Applications opened
  • 19 November 2025: Questions submitted by applicants closed
  • 26 November 2025: Answers provided by DOC
  • 19 December 2025: Application period closed
  • February 2026: Panel assessment
  • Early April 2026: Decisions made by DOC and operators notified of allocation outcome
  • Early April 2026: Concession process commenced

Why DOC does this

DOC manages activity on public conservation land to ensure sustainable visitor experiences while protecting natural and cultural values. Allocating concessions in a fair and transparent way helps:

  • preserve the environment and biodiversity
  • uphold Treaty obligations with mana whenua
  • provide certainty and planning capacity for operators
  • ensure equitable access and sustainable visitor use.

Relevant legislation

DOC is required to consider concessions in accordance with legislation and relevant statutory documents. These include:

  • Section 4 of the Conservation Act, to give effect to the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi
  • National Parks Act 1980
  • General Policy for National Parks 2005
  • Part 3B of the Conservation Act
  • Abel Tasman National Park Management Plan
  • Abel Tasman Foreshore Scenic Reserve Management Plan
  • Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve and Kaka Point Historic Reserve Management Plan