Things to do in Tasman

Abel Tasmin is a coastal paradise with so much to see and do. Walk through or explore by cruise boat, sailing, water taxi, or sea kayak. Just off the coast is one of New Zealand's marine reserves, providing a safe haven for the marine wildlife in the area, and is therefore a great place to scuba dive or snorkel. The Abel Tasman Coastal Track is classed as one of New Zealand's Great Walk,s winding its way through native bush alive with the sound of birds singing, past several inviting golden sandy beaches. It may be the smallest National Park in New Zealand, but it is by no means the least!!

Best Attractions and free things to do in Tasman

1. Experience the Abel Tasman by Air

In the Abel Tasman National Park, visit one of New Zealand's most famous beaches. It's a well-liked tour for good cause! The view from a helicopter is unrivaled, and this is one of the nicest you'll ever see. Avoid the long trip and hike by boarding your private helicopter at Nelson Airport's heli-base and being whisked away on a once-in-a-lifetime flight.
This once-in-a-lifetime flight will leave you wanting to tell the world about your journey!

2. Heli-Picnic

Helicopters Nelson is where your adventure begins. At Nelson Airport, board one of the contemporary helicopters for a once-in-a-lifetime flight. The magnificent Abel Tasman, with its golden sand beaches and clear blue ocean. When you arrive in the secluded Kahurangi National Park, you'll be astounded by the terrain, which is so natural and unspoilt. Breathtaking! Relax with a sumptuous picnic by the lake after a short walk to the neighboring waterfall. The tour lasts 3 hours in total, a popular tour for marriage proposals, special birthdays, or surprising family or friends. With the help of Helicopters Nelson, we're making memories.

3. Go Kayaking

A kayak has probably appeared in every shot of the Abel Tasman National Park that you've seen. It's a fantastic way to get up close and personal with the Abel Tasman shoreline and wildlife, particularly in the Tonga Island Marine Reserve. When it comes to kayaking in Abel Tasman, you have a variety of alternatives, including self-directed multi-day hires, guided day tours, and even day excursions that include kayaking and hiking.

4. Mountain Bike Trails

Although most walking routes in the Abel Tasman National Park are not suitable for mountain biking, there are a few adventurous trails specifically developed for mountain riding. The Canaan Downs Car Park, at the top of Takaka Hill (beware, it's a small gravel road to get there), is your first option. Access the Rameka Track, Canaan Big Loop, and Gold Creek Loop from here.

5. Go Canyoning

If you want to see more of that Abel Tasman wilderness in the most adventurous way possible, try canyoning!
There is a pristine sanctuary hidden in the heart of the Abel Tasman National Park, seen by few but adored by many. Abseil down stunning granite canyons, zip through unspoilt rainforest, and slide into some of the clearest water and natural rock pools you can discover on an adventure within the Abel Tasman Canyons. You'll leave with a huge smile on your face and a whole new respect for the amazing natural landscapes that will surround you in Nelson Tasman.

6. Wainui Falls

Wainui Falls, on the Golden Bay side of the Abel Tasman National Park, is a beautiful short trek but one of the park's lesser-visited highlights. For a short way, cross farmland till you reach rich native forest with granite boulders strewn about and a swing bridge leading to the cascading Wainui Falls. On this 1h20min return track, you'll be left with only smiles and great memories.

7. Hike The Abel Tasman Coast Track

Hike the 60km (37 miles) Abel Tasman Coast Track from golden sand beach to golden sand beach, passing through native woodland along the way. The 3-5-day trek is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, which means that the huts and track are in excellent condition. With only a few hill rises along the way, it's also regarded as one of the simpler Great Walks. Day treks along the seaside path are also available.

8. The iconic Split Apple Rock

A secret monument is nestled between Kaiteriteri and Marahau that surpasses the world's natural wonders. Split Apple Rock's exact origin is unknown, and it's a topic of heated discussion. Scientists believe the granite was split due to ice wedging, a natural process in which water froze in crevices in the rock, causing it to expand and split. However, according to Mori tradition, the boulder was divided in half when the God of the Ocean and the God of the Land fought over who would have control of the rock, which was both in the ocean and on solid ground.

9. Wildlife at Tonga Island

Tonga Island Marine Reserve is a nature lover's delight, whether you're going kayaking, snorkeling, on an eco tour, or sightseeing from the comfort of a boat. The best snorkeling is found amid the rocks between Tonga Quarry and Foul Point, while the best scuba diving is found on the reef systems surrounding Tonga Island. Red rock crabs, crayfish, snapper, and hermit crabs can all be seen swimming and scurrying around you in the caverns and crevices.

The marine reserve is also home to little blue penguins, shags, gannets, and dolphins, and the animal sanctuaries on Tonga and Pinnacle Islands, which are home to lively seal pups, are best observed from the water in boats or kayaks.

10. Explore the national park's gateways

The gates to the Abel Tasman National Park, Kaiteriteri, Marahau, and Motueka, are all popular attractions in their own right; equally beautiful and intriguing. Begin your journey at Motueka, where you can visit the weekend artisan markets, jump out of a plane, or dine at the renowned Toad Hall. Marahau is a terrific place to experience something new, like horseback riding along the golden sands of the beach. If you prefer the golden paradise of Kaiteriteri, spend the morning swimming or kayaking in the crystal-clear lagoon, or taking a short walk up to one of the scenic viewing platforms set in the surrounding bush.

The top attractions in Abel Tasman

Abel Tasman Experience: One of the most popular helicopter tours - and for very good reasons! From the convenient base at Nelson Airport, board one of our modern helicopters and be whisked away to a subtropical paradise, consistently rated as one of New Zealand's best beaches. You'll have time for a walk, a swim, or lunch at the lodge. The only problem is you won't want to leave!

Heli-Picnic: Enjoy a delicious gourmet picnic at a hidden alpine lake. Fly north from our base at Nelson Airport, over the Abel Tasman National Park. Admire the pristine waters and golden sand beaches. You will then head into the Kahurangi National Park, New Zealand's second-largest national park, and land at a hidden alpine lake. Take a short walk to the nearby waterfall and relax in total serenity.

Southern Blend Kayak and walk: This half-day guided kayak and afternoon unguided walk tour in Abel Tasman involves paddling between Marahau and Observation Beach. It then takes you through the safe, sheltered, and scenic southern reaches of the Abel Tasman. Home to more than a dozen beautiful golden beaches, two islands, several sea caves, reefs, and tidal lagoons, this area of Abel Tasman is a delight to sea kayak. After your kayak, take an easy unguided walk through native fern gullies and bush-clad headlands back to Marahau.

1 Day Freedom Kayak Rental: Freedom kayaking gives you the independence to see the wonders of the coastline at your own pace. Kahu Kayaks will equip you with everything you need to have an enjoyable and safe sea kayaking experience.

The top attractions in Abel Tasman to do with kids

Abel Tasman Experience: This is a great way for kids to experience the beauty of the Abel Tasman National Park from above. They'll get to take a helicopter ride over the park and see the stunning scenery and wildlife from above.

Heli-Picnic: This is a fun and unique experience for kids, where they'll get to enjoy a picnic in a remote location within the Abel Tasman National Park, reached by helicopter. They'll get to see the beautiful scenery and enjoy a delicious picnic lunch.

Southern Blend Kayak and walk: This is a great way for kids to explore the Abel Tasman National Park, by kayak and on foot. They'll get to paddle through the crystal-clear waters of the park, taking in the stunning scenery and wildlife. After kayaking, they'll have the opportunity to take a walk on one of the many beautiful coastal tracks and explore the park further.

1 Day Freedom Kayak Rental: This is a great option for kids who want to explore the Abel Tasman National Park on their own. They can rent a kayak and paddle around the park, taking in the beautiful scenery and wildlife at their own pace.

The best things to do near Abel Tasman

24/48 Hour Pohatu Package at a penguin colony: This is a unique experience where you can spend 24 to 48 hours at a penguin colony, watching the penguins come ashore to nest and care for their chicks. The package includes a guided tour of the colony, accommodation, and meals. It's a great way to see the penguins in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and conservation.

Get involved Discovery Tour: This is a fun and educational experience that includes short walks through prehistoric native habitats, 400-year-old beech trees, and immense tree ferns. It's a great way to learn about the unique ecology of New Zealand and what the country looked like before human settlement.

Golf: Canterbury offers many beautiful golf courses where you can enjoy a round of golf while enjoying the beautiful views of the region.

Dolphin Encounter: This is a unique opportunity to see and learn about the playful and curious dusky dolphins in their natural habitat. It's a great way to introduce kids to marine conservation and the importance of protecting these amazing creatures.

Guided Wildlife Kayaking: This is a fun and unique way to explore the stunning coastal region of Canterbury by kayak. Kids will have the opportunity to see the local wildlife and explore the beautiful coastal scenery of the region. This is a great way to introduce them to the beauty of nature and the importance of conservation.