ABEL TASMAN TRACK: A 3-Day Beach & Forest Escape – 60 km

Abel Tasman Coastal Track: A 3-Day Beach & Forest Escape – 60 km

📅 Dates: February 11–13, 2026
📍 Location: Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson-Tasman, New Zealand
🎒 Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
🏕️ Accommodation: DOC Huts

Trip Overview

Experience New Zealand’s most stunning coastal walk as we journey along the golden beaches and turquoise waters of Abel Tasman National Park. This 60 km track features lush native bush, crystal-clear swimming spots, and incredible marine life.

Itinerary

🛫 Tuesday, February 10, 2026: Travel to Marahau
Morning:

From Auckland: Flight to Nelson.
From Hokitika (Paparoa attendees): Flight to Nelson.
Afternoon: Shuttle from Nelson to Marahau (~1h 15m).
Evening: Stay overnight in Marahau.

🥾 Day 1 – Wednesday, February 11, 2026: Marahau → Anchorage (12.4 km)

Start the track from Marahau.
Walk through native forest and golden beaches.
Overnight at Anchorage Hut (34 bunks).

🥾 Day 2 – Thursday, February 12, 2026: Anchorage → Awaroa (23 km)

Pass Cleopatra’s Pool and Torrent Bay.
Walk along Bark Bay and Tonga Quarry.
Overnight at Awaroa Hut (26 bunks).

🥾 Day 3 – Friday, February 13, 2026: Awaroa → Wainui (25 km)
Walk across Awaroa Inlet (low tide only).
End at Wainui Bay or Totaranui (water taxi available).

🚤 Saturday, February 14, 2026: Travel back

Morning: Shuttle or boat back to Nelson.
Afternoon: Flight from Nelson to Auckland.

Accommodation & Logistics

DOC Huts: Anchorage & Awaroa (Must be booked in advance). I will let you know when bookings will open.

Marahau: Motels/lodges available the night before. I will book and will let you know how much to contribute.

Estimated Costs

✈️ Flights: $300–$400 (Auckland–Nelson RT)
🚍 Shuttles: $30–$50 per transfer
🏕️ DOC Huts: $44 per night per person

🎒 Gear List & Notes: Standard Great Walk packing list.

Essentials:

Backpack with rain cover.
Sleeping bag (suitable for alpine conditions).
Waterproof hiking boots.
Waterproof jacket and pants.
Layered clothing (prepare for variable weather).
Food and snacks for 3 days.
Water bottle (water is available at huts).
Headlamp and batteries.
Hat, gloves, and sunscreen.
Personal hygiene items (toilet paper, biodegradable soap).
First aid kit.

Optional:

Hiking poles.
Insect repellent.
Camera for capturing the stunning landscapes.

IMPORTANT NOTES

Fitness Level: Moderate to high. Participants should be prepared for steep climbs and long hiking days.

Bookings: Hut bookings are essential and should be made as soon as possible. I will let you know on what date bookings will open for the 2025/2026 season.

Leave No Trace: Carry out all rubbish and respect wildlife.

Safety: I will carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) and a GPS device for group safety. Your safety will remain your responsibility.

REGISTRATION

Early registration is essential to secure your spot. Priority will be given to those I know well, who have done multi-day hikes with us, and/or have attended training sessions with us.

CONTRIBUTION

A donation will be requested to cover Meetup expenses and shared equipment. The amount TBC.