Abel Tasman National Park, a regional treasure, features turquoise waters, golden beaches, granite coastline, and lush bush. Access the Abel Tasman Coast Track from Marahau or take a cruise or kayak from Kaiteriteri. Best experienced on a multi-day adventure with overnight stays at lodges, campsites, or DOC huts, the park also offers plenty of half and full-day options for shorter visits.
You’ll never be short of picturesque beaches to choose from in the Abel Tasman, and the golden sands of Kaiteriteri could quite possibly rival the recognised wonders of the world. The result of the weathering of ancient granite rocks, crystals of quartz and mica are released out to sea, where the finely ground glittering golden sand particles are washed up to shore to form the idyllic Kaiteriteri Beach. The perfect place to lay back and relax all year round, the feeling of golden sand between your toes and the sea breeze in your hair is truly extraordinary.
The curved crescent shape of Kaiteriteri Bay makes it perfect for a kayaking or paddle-boarding adventure. Sheltered from the elements, the water is naturally calm, and there are plenty of nearby coves and arches to explore. When the tide is retreating at certain times of the day, you can even paddle across the lagoon to your own little private stretch of sand (but make sure you venture back before the tide begins to rise again).
Explore the golden beaches and secluded hideaways of Abel Tasman National Park on a sailing catamaran or scenic cruise. Watch playful seal pups at Tonga Island Marine Reserve and learn about the park's landmarks. Relax on the catamaran’s bow or enjoy top-deck views on your cruise. For a varied experience, try a half-day cruise combined with a walk or kayak.
The Kaiteriteri MTB Park is one of New Zealand’s premier mountain biking locations, and it’s easy to see why. Built by riders, for riders, the park is nestled amongst native bush and hilly terrain, forming the backdrop to the stunning Kaiteriteri Beach. With more than 25 diverse trails to sink your wheels into, there is something for everyone, from smooth and gentle beginner tracks to challenging switchbacks and swift descents. Climb up Tank and shoot down Scoot before hitting the zippy switchbacks of Swish, or loop around the gently undulating track of Cruise Control. If you’re looking for a challenge, shred your wheels on the downhill descent from Jaws, battle the steep ascent of Flamin’ Nora and feel the loss of gravity with Big Airs.
Share in New Zealand’s treasured heritage by paddling in a double or single-hulled waka (Māori canoe) along the length of the stunning Abel Tasman coastline with Waka Abel Tasman. Weave around islands and iconic landforms until you reach Toka Ngāwha Split Apple Rock. The manaakitanga of your guides will be sure to provide you with a unique cultural experience unlike any you’ve ever been a part of befre, as your paddle glides through the crystal-clear waters beow, and you listen to the extraordinary stories of Abel Tasman’s history.
Although the Abel Tasman Coast Track is unprecedented in its beauty, a few short walks in Kaiteriteri offer stunning views out over Tasman Bay and into the secluded hideaways along the park's sweeping coastline. At the northern end of the main beach, you’ll find Kaka Pah Point walk, whilst, on the other side, you can take a short stroll up and over to Little Kaiteriteri, a much quieter (but just as beautiful) hideaway. Just behind the campground is Withell’s Walk, which will take you on a 45-minute walk through lush native bush, treating you to a double course of birdsong and panoramic vistas.
If you’re looking for some relaxation and rejuvenation, Kaiteriteri is the place for you. Famed not only for its golden sands and relaxed holiday vibe, just a few minutes away from the main beach is Kimi Ora, a luxury eco-resort. Here, you’ll find the definition of paradise: heated indoor and outdoor swimming pools, spa pools, a sauna, a steam room, a vegetarian restaurant, and a selection of massage and pampering services, nestled in the lush native bush and offering expansive views over Kaiteriteri Beach. What more could you ask for?
We promise we’re not biased when we say there’s no better place to experience an early sunrise or sunset than in Kaiteriteri, the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park. Watching the sun rays as they make their first appearance, dashing over the golden sands and reflecting off the glistening waters ahead is the perfect way to start your day. Watching from the balcony with a glass of wine in hand as they recede into the horizon at night, forming a stunning backdrop of violet and orange hues, is the perfect way to end it.
Tasman’s Great Taste Trail is a scenic cycle trail that will take you on a leisurely tour of the region’s most beautiful coastal and inland areas, passing breweries, vineyards, orchards, artists and artisans. The trip from the vibrant town of Motueka to the scenic paradise of Kaiteriteri can be completed as part of the overall journey or simply as a short afternoon ride. Plus, what better way to end a cycling trip than with a cool drink and a quick dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Kaiteriteri lagoon?