Mārahau & Abel Tasman National Park

Mārahau is the gateway to New Zealand's Abel Tasman National Park. Combining lush native bush, golden sands, turquoise waters, rugged coastline and tidal lagoons, the Abel Tasman National Park and its surroundings is a coastal paradise.

Nestled at the top of New Zealand's Te Waiponamu (South Island)

Mārahau lies between the magnificent marble mountain range of the Southern Alps and the pristine waters of the Tasman Bay, right at the southern entrance to the Abel Tasman National Park.

The golden beaches, lagoons and native bush make this an amazing year - round destination, famous for walking tracks, beautiful beaches and sea kayaking.

Abel Tasman National Park is the smallest and most beautiful national park in New Zealand. It also has a marine reserve off its coastline, helping to replenish the marine life surrounding the park.

Activities In Mārahau

Step off the beaten track and be rewarded. Unhurried days, delicious food, simple pleasures - take all the time in the world to enjoy your stay.

Discuss any of these options with our knowledgeable staff on your arrival to ensure you get a trip that suits your adventure level.

Sea kayaking:

All the local sea kayaking companies offer a premium experience for all travelers and adventurers. You can choose between freedom rental, guided half day or full day trips.

Conservation Tours:

Discover a hidden side to the Abel Tasman National Park on either a full day guided boat tour or a full day guided walking tour in the upper section of the National Park.

Explore the treasures of the land, sea, forests, and inter tidal zones on these amazing tours. Or relax and partake in the Tasman Treasures trip, exploring the regions less visited view points and historical sights.

Water taxi:

Take in the stunning sights by water taxi from Mārahau along the famous Abel Tasman coastline. Embark on one of several short or long, freedom or guided walks in the National Park and catch the boat home again in the afternoon from a pickup point of your choice. Walking times vary from 15 minutes to 7 hours.

Sailing:

Experience scenic sailing while taking in golden beaches, lagoons, islands, NZ Fur Seals and wonderful coastal forests. An hour-long lunch on Anchorage Beach is perfect for exploring, swimming or relaxing.

Canyoning:

Explore the Abel Tasman National Park in a new and exciting way. Canyoning allows you to go where few have gone before and discover mind blowing water falls, caves and deep clear pools.

Trips range from moderate to the more extreme.

Horse riding:

Ever wanted to ride along a stunning beach? Mārahau is the place to do it. Choose between two horse riding companies in Mārahau and enjoy riding into the sunset. Suitable for all ability levels.

Mountain biking:

Just a short drive away the Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park offers options for beginners through to the more advanced.

With spectacular tracks, ending by the beach, this is a great place to get out and about on your bike.

The Tasman Great Taste Bike Trail offers a unique way to explore the surrounding area.

Mārahau Village:

Mārahau is a wonderful place to visit; the people are friendly, inviting and we are happy to share our piece of New Zealand paradise with you.

Dining:

There are two great restaurants and a gourmet burger bar within walking distance for you to choose from.

They all offer innovative, delicious and tasty food, and excellent atmospheres.

Shop:

The General Store is open all year round and stocks all the necessary supplies needed, including wine and beer.

They also have camping gear for hire and can help you book all hut and camping passes.

Golden Bay, Mohua

If you are after something different or having an extended stay with us Golden Bay is a lovely place to spend the day. Activities include:

  • Harwoods hole on the top of Takaka Hill where scenes from Lord of the Rings were shot
  • Ngarua caves take a guided tour through the incredible underground
  • Te Waikoropupu Springs contains some of the clearest fresh water in the world
  • Farewell Spit, the longest natural sand bar in the world
  • Wainui Falls, the largest and most accessible waterfalls in Golden Bay
  • Wharariki Beach, see amazing rock formations and explore the rugged coastline
  • Takaka, a small village full of amazing galleries and cafes

We can provide you with a map and some local knowledge to ensure that you get the most of your day away.

Motueka and Nelson

Base yourself with us and explore the region:

  • Follow the Arts and Crafts Trail
  • Go skydiving to view the National Park from new heights
  • Explore the many wineries and craft breweries
  • Hire a bike and cycle part or all of the Great Taste Trail for the best food and drink the region has to offer
  • Visit Māpua Wharf for unique gift ideas from local artists
  • For the more adventurous there is the Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park
  • Visit the World of Wearable Arts Museum and explore the great markets

Don't take our word for it, book now and come and explore our beautiful slice of New Zealand.

Abel Tasman entrance from Wainui Bay, Golden Bay Sea kayaking in the Abel Tasman New Zealand octopus Split Apple Rock near the Abel Tasman Abel Tasman coastline Mārahau Wainui Falls, Abel Tasman Nelson, New Zealand Nelson, South Island, New Zealand

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