Te Puketea Bay
Often referred to as the jewel in the Abel Tasman crown, the small horse-shoe-shaped bay of Te Puketea is known for its breathtaking beauty and near-isolation.
Encircled by verdant native bush, the gorgeous golden sands of Te Puketea are lapped by some of the clearest waves imaginable. Forming somewhat of an ombre effect, the view of the beach from the Pitt Head Loop Track is almost ethereal. It is the perfect place to stop and capture a photo before continuing down to the bay.
The beach is not accessible via the main Abel Tasman Coastal Track but is instead a side trip from Anchorage, so it still feels relatively undiscovered. From Anchorage, it’s just a 1.5-hour return walk via the Pitt Head Track. Those looking to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery for a little longer could stay overnight at the beachside campsite before returning to Anchorage to continue on the Abel Tasman Coast Track the next day.
There are no water taxis or boat drop-offs in Te Puketea Bay.