Walking & hiking
Abel Tasman National Park
Come explore the heart of New Zealand in our three stunning national parks. Whether you're keen on a gentle wander through native bush with tūī for company or ready to take on a full-blown backcountry mission, there’s a trail with your name on it. Think golden beaches one day, alpine ridgelines the next. Our tracks are safe, well-marked, and packed with surprises around every corner. It’s nature at its best, just waiting for you to dive in.
Whether you've got a few hours or a few days, there's an adventure ready. Guided or not, it's up to you.
From golden coastal trails to peaceful forest walks and big alpine adventures, Nelson Tasman is made for exploring on foot. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about hiking in the region, including when to go, what to pack, track difficulty, transport, dogs and planning your walk.
Nelson Tasman has walks for just about every pace, from easy coastal tracks and short forest walks to challenging alpine hikes. The Abel Tasman Coast Track is our region’s best-known Great Walk, while Kahurangi National Park and Nelson Lakes National Park offer rewarding day hikes and multi-day backcountry adventures.
You can hike in Nelson Tasman year-round, but conditions vary considerably between the coast and the mountains. Spring through autumn is popular for longer walks, while winter can be a beautiful time for lower-level and coastal tracks. Always check the latest weather, track conditions and DOC alerts before heading out.
Absolutely. You don’t need to walk the entire Abel Tasman Coast Track to enjoy it. Water taxis and boat cruises make it easy to walk a section of the track in one direction, with pick-up and drop-off points along the coast. It’s a great way to experience the park if you only have a day.
Most day walks don’t require a booking. If you’re staying overnight on the Abel Tasman Coast Track, huts and campsites must be booked in advance year-round. Other multi-day tracks and accommodation have different requirements, so check with the Department of Conservation (DOC) when planning your trip.
There’s a huge range and variety. You’ll find gentle coastal and forest walks suitable for less experienced walkers, along with steep, remote and alpine routes for experienced trampers. Go to the Department of Conservation (DOC) website to check the track grade, distance, elevation and expected conditions before choosing your walk, and pick something that suits everyone in your group.
Yes. Nelson Tasman has plenty of short and easy walks that are great for families and anyone looking for a more relaxed day out. You can choose from coastal walks, native forest trails, lakeside tracks and shorter sections of longer routes. Check the track grade and conditions before you go, especially when walking with young children.
Yes. Nelson Tasman is one of New Zealand’s most dog-friendly regions, with plenty of places to explore together. While dogs aren’t permitted in the region’s national parks, there are lots of dog-friendly walks, parks and outdoor spaces elsewhere.
Richmond Forest Park is one option where you can explore with your dog, provided you have a DOC permit. To arrange one, email the local DOC office before your walk. You’ll need to provide your dog’s council registration (REGO) number when requesting the permit.
Being a responsible dog owner helps protect our wildlife and keeps these special places enjoyable for everyone. Dog access and rules can vary between locations, and some restrictions change over the summer months, so always check before you set out.
A few good habits go a long way:
Planning a dog-friendly day out? Read our dog-friendly Nelson Tasman guide, complete with a handy map of dog-friendly short walks and parks, plus cafés and restaurants where your pup can join you.
The Abel Tasman Coastal Track follows a pristine coastline of extraordinary beauty. Clear, turquoise bays, abundant bird and sea life, and fresh, clean air surround you as you walk under the shady canopy of lush native forest.
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