Awaroa Beach

• Abel Tasman National Park
• Landmarks & Hotspots

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Known as the ‘Peoples Beach’ Awaroa was purchased by New Zealanders back in 2016 as part of an ambitious crowdfunding campaign.

Not wanting to see this popular holiday destination fall into private ownership, two Christchurch men (Duane Major and Adam Gard’ner) launched a campaign that saw the beach purchased for $2.8 million and handed over to the Department of Conservation for current and future generations to enjoy.

Awaroa Beach is located in the depths of the Abel Tasman National Park, and despite its remoteness it is one of the only places you’ll find lodge style accommodation and a restaurant within the national park. The Abel Tasman Coastal Track reaches Awaroa from the south and links the beach with the northern end of the track via a tidal estuary that is only able to be crossed 2 hours either side of low tide. As the tide recedes from the estuary, walkers begin to cross the bay as a maze of golden sand banks appear. Whether you experience Awaroa by foot, by boat, by kayak or by air, the remarkable coastal scenery is well worth exploring.

How to get there: You can access Awaroa by foot via the Abel Tasman Coast Track, by boat or by helicopter. If walking from the northern end of the park, you’ll only be able to cross the inlet 2 hours either side of low tide.

Photo credits: (1-3) Nelson Tasman Air, (4-5) Abel Tasman Aqua Taxi, (6) Awaroa Lodge.