Abel Tasman National Park

The Abel Tasman National Park is located at the north end of the South Island. The park was founded in 1942 and is the smallest of New Zealand's national parks. It is named after Abel Tasman, who was the first European explorer to sight New Zealand in 1642.

The Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and its world-famous coastal walking track.

Popular activities in the park include: The Abel Tasman Coast Track, a walking track which follows the coastline and the Abel Tasman Inland Track, which travels inland through regenerating forest with occasional rock outcrops, which offer excellent views of the coast. Sailing and sea kayaking tours allows visitors to access some of the sheltered coves within the park. Guided tours can be arranged locally.

The park is home to many species of native bird including bellbirds, fantails and tuis.

The nearest large town is Motueka, 20 kilometres to the South.