Abel Tasman National Park - Nelson

It would be hard to imagine a more perfect piece of coastline - clear turquoise waters, golden beaches, interesting rocky headlands, lush native forest and all kinds of interesting wildlife. The Abel Tasman National Park is a coastal paradise that you can walk through or explore by cruise boat, sailing catamaran, water taxi or sea kayak. Marahau is the park's southern entry point. Here you'll find accommodation of all types, cafes, guided sea kayak tours, kayak hire for self-guided trips, Maori cultural experiences, seal swimming operators and horse trekking operators. Kaiteriteri is another launching point for adventures in the park. Cruises and water taxis depart from the beach - you can even paddle into the park in an authentic Maori waka (war canoe). Walking the coastal track - guided or self-guided - is an exercise in freedom. You'll hike from beach to perfect beach, around headlands, across tidal mudflats and through native forest. There are huts and campsites along the way. Generally, the track takes around three days to complete. If you don't have time to do the whole track, it's easy to arrange for a water taxi drop-off or pick-up at various points along the way. If you want to walk a path less trodden, take the Inland Track through the hilly centre of the park.