Abel tasman Coast track

2010 / 2011 Season

ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK

Contents Introduction Location Getting there Walking seasons Can I do it? Other activities Planning, preparation and equipment Weather What to take DOC huts and campsites Transport options Tidal crossings Safety and track closure Winter Track map Track notesthe Coast Track Track profilehigh tide time/distance Track notesside trips Low-tide timetables Booking information and conditions 5 5 5 6 7 8 11 12 13 15 18 19 21 21 22 25 25 27 28 32

Contents (continued) History Natural history DOC management Environmental Care Code Commercial operators Other publications DOC contact details 37 38 39 41 42 45 46

Introduction
The Abel Tasman Coast Track, located in Abel Tasman National Park on South Islands northern shores, is one of the DOC Great Walks*. The Coast Track extends for 54.4km and is classified as a walking track: all streams are bridged but there are tidal crossings, which can only be crossed within a few hours either side of low tide. The track takes an average of three to five days to complete and can be walked from either end. There are huts and campsites where you can stay for a fee. Bookings are required. There is no charge for day walks. Visitors can walk into the park from the roadend carparks, catch boat transport to beaches along the track or kayak along the coast.
*Great Walks are the Departments premier walking tracks, through areas of some of the best scenery in the country. The huts and tracks on the Great Walks are of a higher standard than other tramping tracks. Many of the Great Walks have booking systems to manage visitor pressure.

Location
The nearest towns of Nelson, Motueka and Takaka have i-Sites, accommodation and shops catering for tramping and kayaking needs. Kaiteriteri has a petrol station, small grocery shop, accommodation and caf. Marahau has accommodation, a shop and cafs. Takaka is the last place for petrol before Totaranui.

Getting there
The Abel Tasman Coast Track is accessible by road at four points, each with a carpark: Marahau, the southern gateway, is 67km from Nelson on sealed road. Wainui is 21km from Takaka. For the last 2km, the road is unsealed. Totaranui is 32km from Takaka. For the last 13km, the road is unsealed.

Cleopatras Pool. Photo: D Parr

 Awaroa Inlet is 31km from Takaka. For the last 12km, the road is rough and unsealed. There are two fords, which flood after heavy rain. From the Awaroa carpark on the northern side of the inlet, its 25minutes of tidal walk to the DOC Awaroa hut and campsite, which are on the southern side of the inlet. (Refer to low-tide tables on pages 2831.) Boat transport operates to a timetable from Marahau and Kaiteriteri, providing transport to the main beaches of Anchorage, Torrent Bay, Bark Bay, Onetahuti, Awaroa and Totaranui.

The main disadvantages are the shorter daylight hours and cooler temperatures. The chart below shows the number of walkers on the track between Torrent Bay and Bark Bay. Numbers peak in January with over 250per day and drop in August to less than25.

300 Number of walkers each day 250 200 150 100 50 0 October November September December August February January March May July June April

Can I do it?
Halfway Pool, between Torrent Bay and the Falls River Bridge. Photo: D Parr

To ensure you enjoy your trip in all weathers, you will need are a day walker you can expect to: carry a day pack

Walking seasons
The Coast Track is open all year. Transport, activity, equipment and accommodation operators are available year round. All huts and campsites must be booked all year round. See Booking Information and Conditions on page 32 for details. In peak season (October to April), DOC hut wardens and staff are based at the huts and Totaranui Camp Office. Bookings for the Abel Tasman Coast Track cannot be made at Totaranui. In winter, wardens rotate among the huts. The advantages of visiting the Abel Tasman Coast in the winter include fewer visitors, calmer water, less water traffic, such as water-skiers, hardly any insects and off-peak hut and campsite fees.

walk up and down hills walk on sand, mud and shells get wet crossing tidal streams or getting on and off boats. Overnight walkers can also expect to walk four to five hours a day and carry a pack of up to 15 kg. If you are camping, you will also need to carry a tent and a sleeping mat. It is possible to arrange for luggage to be freighted by boat among some huts and campsites. If you choose this option be prepared for a change in the weather, or the worst outcome, the bag being stolen or dropped at the wrong bay. Dont leave valuables in your luggage as it will be left unattended. To arrange luggage transport, contact water transport operators directly. (Contact details are on page 43.)

 Book campsites rather than a hut so you have more options on where to stay. Kayaking is not recommended north of Onetahuti Bay due to the remote and exposed coastline. Approximate paddling times for experienced kayakers in calm conditions without stops are: Marahau to Anchorage: 3 hours Anchorage to Bark Bay: 2 hours 30 minutes Bark Bay to Onetahuti: 1 hour 30 minutes. Never risk your life by kayaking in dangerous seas!
Kayaks. Photo: D Parr

Viewing seals

Other activities
Kayaking For people who havent kayaked before, a guided trip is recommended. For independent kayak rentals, a minimum of two people and previous sea-kayaking experience are essential. For more details, contact kayaking operators, some of whom are listed on page 43, or i-Sites. Kayaking is more weather dependent than walking along the Coast Track, so you are advised to: Book campsites that are within your kayaking ability and plan for the worst weatherhead winds and rough seas. Then, if the weather makes kayaking slow you will still get to your campsite. If the weather is fine and there is a tail wind, you can always kayak to your campsite, set up your tent and then go exploring with your kayak without your overnight gear. Assess your fitness, the wind strength and direction and sea swell before proceeding each day. If the weather is too rough to safely kayak to your intended destination (the campsite you have booked), stop and wait for a few hours or camp in an alternative campsite. It is permissible to camp at a campsite other than the one you have booked for safety reasons. Explain the circumstances when a Ranger inspects your Camp Accommodation Ticket.

New Zealand fur seals can be seen at various places along the coast. There is a large breeding colony at Tonga Island. Seals should not be approached closer than 20 metres. Tonga Island Marine Reserve The Tonga Island Marine Reserve boundary is marked on shore by large triangles and includes Mosquito Bay, Tonga Quarry and Onetahuti Bay beaches. Off shore, look out for buoys marking the north and south boundary. (See map on page 22.) Within the marine reserve: all plant and animal life is totally protected all fishing including gathering shellfish is prohibited.
Commercial activities A concession (an official authorisation) is required to operate any commercial activity in an area managed by the Department of Conservation. Concessions are required for: guiding (including fishing, hunting, tramping, walking, climbing/ski tours, kayaking/canoeing); transport services; commercial education or instruction activities. Guided kayaking and walking trips, water taxi and charter boat services are examples of concessionaire operations. Concessionaire guides operating in Abel Tasman National Park are required to prominently display their company name, concession number and its expiry date on an ID card. If you are on a guided trip or see a trip where the guides do not have this DOC identification, please inform a DOC staff member. For more information regarding concessions, visit: www.doc.govt.nz

Hunting No hunting is allowed 500 metres either side of the Abel Tasman Coast Track. The remaining area of Abel Tasman National Park, hunting is by permit only. Areas are closed annually from sunset on 22 December to sunrise on 9 February. For hunting permits for northern Abel Tasman National Park contact DOC Golden Bay. For hunting permits for southern Abel Tasman National Park contact Nelson Regional Visitor Centre or DOC Motueka. Dogs In general, dogs are not allowed in national parks. However, Guide Dogs and dogs working with Search and Rescue are allowed. Hunters wanting to take hunting dogs need to obtain a dog permit from the relevant DOC office. For northern Abel Tasman contact DOC Golden Bay; for southern Abel Tasman contact DOC Nelson Regional Visitor Centre or DOC Motueka. No horses are allowed on the Coast Track. Mountain biking Part of the track, from the Wainui carpark to Gibbs Hill Track turn-off can be used by mountain bikers between 1May and 1October. The mountain bikers can then continue over Gibbs Hill to Totaranui. Groups need to limit their size to 8riders and adhere to the mountain bikers care code. No mountain biking is allowed on the track from Marahau to Wainui Saddle.

Planning, preparation and equipment

Its important to plan, prepare and equip yourself well. Have the right gear and skills required for the trip and always check the latest information about facilities you plan to use and local weather conditions. The DOC web site has the latest information on the Abel Tasman Coast Track. Go to www.doc.govt.nz and follow these headings; parks and recreation/plan and prepare/alerts/Nelson/Marlborough. This information is also displayed on visitor centre notice boards. Trip intentions Before setting out on your trip, remember to inform a reliable person of your intentions and check in with them on or after your return. (If you are overdue, they should contact the police.) Fill in the visitors book if you are staying in a hut. Walking the track: The track can be walked in either direction. Filtered water sites are at: Anchorage, Bark Bay, Awaroa, Totaranui and Whariwharangi. You should be prepared to boil, treat or filter drinking water if the DOC water filter systems are not working correctly. Water at other DOC sites or streams in the park cannot be guaranteed safe to drink. There is a risk of giardia. We recommend that you treat water before using it. Cookers and lighting are not provided in any of the huts. Fires is a serious hazard. Fires are only allowed in specific campsites (see table on page 16) where formal fireplaces are provided by DOC. Visitors are responsible for their own fire safety. At times of high risk a total fire ban may be imposed. Wasps: If you are allergic to wasp stings, take your medication, such as antihistamines, with you. Sandflies: Sandflies are tiny black insects which cause itchy bites. Cover up and use insect repellent. Possums: Pack food away at night and keep tents closed to stop possums from eating your food or damaging your tent and equipment. Kayakers should place food into kayak storage hatches overnight.

Seal colonies occur at Pinnacle and Tonga Islands and Separation Point. Do not go closer than 20metres to a seal when it is on the land. Rubbish: no rubbish facilities are provided: carry out all your rubbish from the park do not put plastic or foil in fireplaces because they do not burn cleanly do not leave paper or cardboard in fireplaces. Mobile phone coverage is poor. There are public telephones at Marahau, Torrent Bay, Awaroa Lodge and Totaranui.

What to take
While the Abel Tasman Coast is generally warm and dry in summer, remember it is a coastal environment, which can change quickly, so be prepared for rain, cold and windy conditions.

Weather
The climate is mild with sea breezes, summer droughts and some winter frosts. Rainfall averages 1800mm and the sun shines around 2200hours per year. During late spring and throughout summer the coast is subject to strong westerly winds, while the autumn and winter months are generally calm. Seasonal temperatures and rainy days are shown in the table below.
Weather information at Totaranui July August September October November December January February March April May June max temp C 13 13 15 17 19 21 23 22 21 18 16 14 min temp C 4 5 7 8 10 12 12 13 12 10 7 6 rainy days 11 10 12 9 10 10 6 7 9 8 10 10

School group between Marahau and Anchorage.

Day visitors should take: food and water (Food and drinks are not available for purchase on the track.) map and Abel Tasman Coast Track booklet sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen firm footwear (recommended); boots (optional) warm layer of clothes windproof rain jacket sandals or aqua shoes for walking in water (optional) swimwear, towel, camera (optional) first aid kit: insect repellent, personal medication (e.g. antihistamine for allergy to wasp stings). Overnight visitors in summer should take everything suggested for day visitors plus the list below: at least one set of clothes to walk in and another dry set to change into at night pack with large waterproof/plastic liner

DOC huts and campsites

DOC provides a range of accommodation along the Coast Track, including four huts, 18campsites and the Totaranui campground. Visitors must book huts and campsites before starting the track. Please note that overnight stays for Coast Track walkers are limited to one night at Totaranui campground and two consecutive nights in all huts and other campsites along the Coast Track between 1October and 30April. Huts Huts have bunks, tables, benches and heating. Bunkrooms are communal with platform bunks and mattresses. Ablution blocks have flush toilets and washbasins with cold water only. There are no cooking facilities or lighting. Potable water is usually provided at huts. Be prepared to boil, treat or filter drinking water if the DOC water filters are not working correctly. Hut users are expected to leave huts clean and tidy and take their rubbish out with them. Backcountry Hut Tickets and Backcountry Hut Passes are not valid for use on the Coast Track. Hut spaces need to be booked all year around and overnight stays are limited to two consecutive nights in any one hut between 1October and 30April; and five consecutive nights between 1May and 30September. To book in winter more than two nights contact the Great Walks Helpdesk in Nelson.

Bridge between Torrent Bay and Bark Bay. Photo: Markus Baumann

Hut or Camp Accommodation Ticket sleeping bag tent and sleeping mat (for campers) torch and spare batteries candles cooking stove, lighter and spare fuel cooking utensils: pot/pan/billy, pot scrubber eating utensils: knife, fork, spoon, plate, cup toilet gear: toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, small towel, soap earplugs (optionalyou may be sharing huts and/or campsites with a large number of other people) food should be lightweight, fast to cook and high in energy value, e.g. breakfast: cereal, firm bread, spreads lunch: cracker biscuits, cheese, salami dinner: instant soup, pasta/rice, dried vegetables/fruit, cheese or dehydrated meals. Overnight visitors in winter should also take: warm, quick-drying clothing. Wool and modern synthetics are better than cotton as they dry quickly and give more warmth.

Observation Beach Campsite. Photo: Andy Thompson

Scheduled Boat Transport Stop

Cooking Shelter

Water supply

Tinline Bay Apple Tree Bay Akersten Bay Observation Beach* Watering Cove Te Pukatea Bay Anchorage Torrent Bay Village Medlands Beach Bark Bay Mosquito Bay* Tonga Quarry Onetahuti Bay Awaroa Waiharakeke Totaranui Coast Track+ Anapai Bay Mutton Cove Whariwharangi Bay
Key Facility available * Boat access only + Has road access

T T T T T T P T T P T T T P T P T T P

Toilet

Campsite

Fireplace

F F

Totaranui Coast Track Campers Campsite. Photo: Pam Mytton

one campsite between 1October and 30April; and five consecutive nights between 1May and 30September. To book in winter more than two nights contact the Great Walks Helpdesk in Nelson. Totaranui campground Totaranui campground has a camp office, potable water, flush toilets (including disabled access), cold showers, fireplaces and car parking. Petrol is not available and there are no luggage storage facilities. Bookings for the Coast Track huts and campsites cannot be made at Totaranui. Totaranui has two camping areas: The Coast Track campers campsite. There is a onenight limit for Coast Track campers. People booking Totaranui Coast Track campsite also need to book at least one other campsite on the track. The main campground takes up to 850 campers staying for longer periods over the summer. Bookings are only required for camping from 1December to 10February. Campground booking forms can be downloaded from www.doc.govt.nz

F F F F F F F

P T F

Potable water Treat, boil or filter water Flush toilet

Campsites All campsites have a water supply and toilets. Some campsites have cooking shelters and fireplaces. Open fires are only permitted where fireplaces are provided and when there is no fire ban in force. School groups, independent walkers and kayakers, and some guided walking and kayaking groups stay at campsites. Please be considerate of other visitors. Leave campsites clean and tidy and take your rubbish out with you. Campers are not permitted to use hut facilities. Campsites need to be booked all year around. Camping at Totaranui is limited to one night all year round and at other campsites to: two nights in any

Totaranui main campground. Photo: John Mason

Transport options
The Abel Tasman Coast Track is not a circuit track. However, it can be combined with the Abel Tasman Inland Track to form a 5- to 6-day circuit. By road it takes 2hours 30 minutes to drive between Totaranui or Wainui and Marahau (approx. 100km). This road is narrow, winding and unsealed in places. By boat transport it takes about 1hour30minutes to travel between Totaranui and Marahau. The track is well serviced by public transport including buses/coaches and boat transport. For details, contact the transport operators directly. (See page 42.) Vehicle parking: DOC provides a carpark at Marahau, Totaranui, Wainui and Awaroa roadends. Cars are parked at owners/drivers risk. Secure parking can be arranged at various Marahau businesses. Bus services operate in summer from Nelson and Motueka to major roadends at Marahau and Kaiteriteri and connect with Takaka transport to Totaranui and Wainui. Bookings are recommended. In winter, bus services operate daily to Marahau and Kaiteriteri but not so regularly to Wainui and Totaranui. Boat transport operates year round from Marahau and Kaiteriteri. The scheduled boat transport pickup locations are: Anchorage, Torrent Bay, Bark Bay, Onetahuti, Awaroa and Totaranui.

Tidal crossings
Consult a tide timetable (pages 2831) when planning your trip as two estuaries on the track are only passable at low tide: Onetahuti estuary can only be crossed within 3hours either side of low tide. Awaroa inlet can only be crossed within 1hour30minutes before and 2hours after low tide. It is dangerous to cross outside of these times. Tide tables in this publication are corrected for daylight saving time. The estuaries at Torrent Bay and Bark Bay have all-tide tracks around them. If you use the all-tide track at Torrent Bay add an extra 1hour 25minutes, and at Bark Bay add 15minutes. If walking north and planning a three-day, two-night trip, the following plan may be helpful: When low tide occurs morning and evening (e.g. between 5a.m. and 10a.m. and between 5p.m. and 10p.m.), then it is best to spend the first night at or around Anchorage and the second at Awaroa. When low tide is around midday and midnight (e.g. between 11 a.m. and 4p.m. and between 11 p.m. and 4a.m.) then it is possible to do both tidal crossings in the same day. This means you can spend the first night at Bark Bay and the second at Waiharakeke Bay. Average walking times for tidal crossings Bark Bay to Onetahuti Crossing: 2h Onetahuti Crossing: 2min Onetahuti Crossing to Awaroa hut and campsite: 2h Awaroa Crossing: 25min northern side of Awaroa crossing to Totaranui: 1h15min Example: A four-day, three-night trip from Marahau to Wainui, staying at Anchorage, Awaroa and Whariwharangi, might be as follows: Day 1 Low tides: 5:00a.m. and 5:20p.m. Walking day: walk from Marahau to Anchorageno tidal crossings Walking time: 4hours.

Kayakers in Torrent Estuary. Photo: Markus Baumann

Safety and track closure

In case of any accident or injury that requires emergency evacuation, contact Police Search and Rescue via DOC staff or boat transport staff radios. In the unusual situation of the track being closed (e.g. in case of extreme fire risk), signs will be erected at track entrances and information will be at i-Sites, DOC information centres and on the DOC website. Check before you start your walk. If the track is closed, a full refund will be given for the unused services.
Awaroa tidal crossing at low tide. Photo: D Parr

Day 2 Low tides: 5:45a.m. and 6:07p.m. Walking day: walk from Anchorage to Awaroa including the Onetahuti crossing between 3p.m. and 9p.m. The evening low tide is 6:07p.m. and you can cross 3hours before or after. Then walk on to Awaroa campsite. Walking time: Anchorage to Bark Bay 4hours; Bark Bay to Onetahuti Crossing 2hours; Onetahuti crossing 2minutes; Onetahuti crossing to Awaroa 2hours. Total 7hours30minutes. Day 3 Low tides: 6:30a.m. and 6:52p.m. Walking day: walk across Awaroa crossing before 8:30a.m. The crossing can be walked between 5a.m. (1hour30minutes before 6:30a.m.) and 8:30a.m. (2hours after 6:30a.m.). Then walk via Totaranui to Whariwharangi. Walking time: Awaroa crossing 25minutes; northern side of Awaroa crossing to Totaranui 1hour15minutes; Totaranui to Whariwharangi 3hours. Total 4hours40minutes. Day 4 Low tides: 7:15a.m. and 7:37p.m. Walking day: walk from Whariwharangi to Wainui carpark no tidal crossings Walking time: 1hour30minutes.

Winter
The Abel Tasman Coast Track can be walked all year but in winter temperatures are cooler. All huts have heating. Campsites that get good afternoon sun are Anchorage, Bark Bay, Mosquito Bay, Awaroa and Totaranui.

Tonga Quarry Campsite. Photo: Mark Townsend

Whariwharangi Bay Taupo Point

Separation Point

KEY
Great Walk/ Easy tramping track Tramping track Hut Number of campers Shelter Car park Phone Filtered water Water taxi
20

40

40
Whariwharangi Hut (20 bunks)

Mutton Cove Anapai Bay

Tata Islands Wainui Bay

Gibbs Hill Track

Route (beach/estuary) Roadsealed Roadunsealed

12

40

Totaranui (Coast Track)

To Takaka

Pigeon Saddle
ck Tra d an To Awapoto Hut nl (12 bunks)

Goat Bay

Note: The Abel Tasman Foreshore Scenic Reserve covers the foreshore (between mean high water mark and mean low water spring) from Marahau to Wainui, and includes the foreshore around the islands of the national park.

20
Pound Gully
a
et Inl

Waiharakeke Bay

Non-DOC track

aR iv er

Aw ar

36 Awaroa Hut (26 bunks)

Onetahuti Bay 40 Tonga Quarry 20

Whariwharangi Hut. Photo: DOC

Aw a r o

Tonga Island
Within the marine reserve all plant and animal life is totally protected: fishing is not permitted.

Bark Bay Hut (34 bunks)

40 80 10

Mosquito Bay

(access by water only)

Bark Bay Medlands Beach Pinnacle Island

F alls River

Awaroa Hut. Photo: Alison Scott

Falls River Track Torrent Bay Village 20

Torr e

Bay ent Anchorage r r To Pitt Head

Inla

n d Tra c

nt

Cleopatras Pool Ri v e r

14 100 10 12 6
Stilwell Bay

Te Pukatea Bay Anchorage Hut (24 bunks)

To Castle Rocks Hut (8 bunks)

Watering Cove Observation Beach

Akersten Bay

(access by water only)

Bark Bay Hut. Photo: Markus Baumann

Ma r a h a

uR iv

30
eB ay

30
Coquille Bay

Apple Tree Bay

Adele Island

Marahau
To Motueka and Kaiteriteri 0
Anchorage Hut. Photo: Markus Baumann

Tinl in

er

Fisherman Island

5 kilometres

Track notesthe Coast Track

Marahau to Anchorage, 4h, 12.4km French names left by dUrville and his crewAdele, Simonet, Torrentadd character to this part of the journey. At Marahau Information Kiosk a causeway crosses the estuary. On the far side the track passes through open country to Tinline Bay. The track rounds Guilbert Point to Apple Tree Bay then passes through beech forest with large kanuka trees. After Yellow Point it turns inland, winding in and out of several little gullies before emerging in open country overlooking Torrent Bay and the coast and islands to the north. Descend to Anchorage Bay where there is a hut and campsite. Anchorage to Bark Bay High tide track, 4h, 12.1km Low tide crossing, Torrent Bay estuary, 3h, 8.4km From Anchorage Bay, cross a low ridge to Torrent Bay estuary. The estuary can be crossed within two hours either side of low tide, or an all-tide track leads around it to Torrent Bay. Please keep to the public track through the private houses there. At the northern end of Torrent Bay beach the track climbs through pine trees. The track sidles around two valleys and above a beautiful inlet to Falls River, the biggest in the park, which is crossed by a 47m suspension bridge. Beyond the river, the track climbs before dropping back to the sea. Follow the track to the hut and campsite beside Bark Bay estuary. Bark Bay to Awaroa, 4h, 11.4km (tidal) Cross Bark Bay estuary or follow the all-tide track (only adds 10min) around its edge and climb steeply to a saddle. Here

you lose all sense of the sea below as you journey through stands of manuka. Return to the shore at Tonga Quarry, where blocks of granite remain from an old quarrying operation. Tonga Island sits offshore surrounded by marine reserve. A short distance on is Onetahuti Bay; at its northern end, high tide may cause a delay. The tidal stream can be crossed within 3hours either side of low tide. The track then climbs over Tonga Saddle and descends to Awaroa Inlet. Follow the shore for 15minutes to Awaroa Hut and campsite. Awaroa to Totaranui, 1h30min, 5.5km (tidal) Awaroa Inlet can only be crossed close to low tide. The inlet should definitely only be crossed up to one and a half hours before low tide and up to two hours after it. (Following very heavy rain the inlet may be impassable.) From its northern side the track crosses a low saddle and drops to Waiharakeke Bay, where a timber mill once operated. The track re-enters the forest then emerges at Goat Bay, from where it climbs to a lookout above Skinner Point before descending to Totaranui. Follow the road through the main camping ground to the camp office, boat transport pickup point and Coast Track walkers campsite. Totaranui to Whariwharangi, 3h, 7.5km The track heads around Totaranui estuary, climbs over a low saddle and winds down through lush forest to Anapai Bay. From here to Mutton Cove, travel alternates between sandy beaches and rocky headlands of regenerating kanuka. Leave the coast at Mutton Cove and climb to another saddle. From here the track descends to Whariwharangi Bay. The huta restored farm homesteadand campsite are just behind the beach. Add 1hour to go via Separation Point. (See Track notesside trips, on next page.)
Bark Bay 4 h, 12.1 km Onetahuti Bay 2 h, 5.4 km Medlands Beach Tonga Quarry 2 h, 6 km Awaroa 1 h 30 min, 5.5 km Waiharakeke Bay Awaroa Goat Carpark Bay Awaroa tidal crossing

Whariwharangi to Wainui, 1h30min, 5.5km From Whariwharangi Hut follow a small stream then climb out of the bay to a saddle overlooking Wainui Inlet. The track winds down to the shore around gorse covered ridges recovering from a fire in 1978, then follows the estuary edge for 500metres to the carpark. Transport leaves from the carpark. For walkers continuing on towards Takaka, it is possible to cross Wainui Inlet within two hours either side of low tide.

Track notesside trips

Many secluded and sheltered coves and lookout points are accessible from the Coast Track, as well as the following side trips. Te Pukatea/Pitt Head A 20-minute walk crosses a low ridge from Anchorage Hut to crescent-shaped Te Pukatea Bay. From there a one-hour walk with good views leads to Pitt Head, an old pa site, and back to Anchorage. Cleopatras Pool From Torrent Bay estuary a 20-minute wander leads up a stream bed of large boulders to Cleopatras Pool. Falls River A track heads inland from near Torrent Bay Village camp to the Falls River falls. Allow 3 hours return. A shorter option for those with less time is the Cascade Falls on the same track. Allow 1h30min return. Separation Point From Mutton Cove a track leads to Separation Point, where fur seals breed. This track branches shortly before the point to rejoin the Coast Track at the saddle above Whariwharangi Bay (1hour).
Totaranui 3 h, 7.5 km Mutton Cove Anapai Bay Separation Point Whariwharangi Wainui Bay Bay 1 h 30 min, 5.5 km
700 600 400 300 200 100 0 Altitude (feet) 500

Track profilehigh tide time/distance

Marahau 4 h, 12.4 km
200 Altitude (metres) 150 100 50 0

Anchorage

Tinline Bay Coquille Bay Apple Tree Bay

Te Pukatea Bay Akersten Watering Bay Cove Torrent Bay Village Onetahuti tidal crossing

Observation Beach

Mosquito Bay Hut Campsite Carpark Water access only Tidal crossing Location on Coast Track Location on side track

25

26

27

Low-tide timetables
September 2010 November 2010 December 2010 low tide a.m. p.m. 11:55 : 12:32 01:07 01:33 02:08 02:31 03:00 03:24 03:47 04:13 04:30 04:59 05:10 05:40 05:49 06:20 06:28 06:57 07:08 07:35 07:49 08:15 08:35 09:00 09:25 09:53 10:20 10:58 11:18 : 12:10 12:18 01:14 01:17 02:07 02:13 02:53 03:05 03:35 03:52 04:16 04:37 04:58 05:20 05:41 06:02 06:25 06:44 07:11 07:28 08:01 08:14 08:53 09:06 09:50 10:09 10:52 11:24 11:59 : 12:44 p.m. October 2010 Date 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 low tide a.m. p.m. 08:51 09:46 10:00 11:15 11:25 : 12:31 12:50 01:32 01:57 02:25 02:51 03:14 03:38 04:00 04:22 04:45 05:03 05:29 05:43 06:11 06:22 06:54 07:03 07:37 07:49 08:24 08:46 09:20 10:04 10:30 11:30 11:50 : 12:36 01:01 01:28 01:55 02:11 02:39 02:49 03:16 03:24 03:50 03:58 04:21 04:31 04:53 05:05 05:26 05:41 06:01 06:19 06:41 07:01 07:26 07:47 08:22 08:40 09:32 09:46 10:50

Date 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

low tide a.m. p.m. 05:54 06:20 06:33 06:57 07:13 07:37 07:57 08:23 08:44 09:21 09:37 10:31 10:37 11:42 11:42 : 12:43 12:49 01:37 01:51 02:26 02:47 03:13 03:37 4:00 04:24 04:47 05:09 05:34 05:53 06:22 06:37 07:11 07:24 08:02 08:17 08:57 09:22 09:58 10:41 11:05 11:57 : 12:16 12:59 01:20 01:50 02:15 02:33 03:00 03:11 03:39 03:46 04:14 04:20 04:46 04:53 05:17 05:25 05:48 05:59 06:20

July 2010

low tide a.m. p.m. 06:35 06:55 07:13 07:36 07:56 08:28 08:47 09:40 09:50 11:05 11:07 : 12:18 12:27 01:17 01:36 02:08 02:32 02:56 03:21 03:43 04:06 04:28 04:48 5:13 05:30 05:58 06:12 06:44 06:56 07:31 07:45 08:23 08:48 09:23 10:15 10:37 11:40 11:57 : 12:44 01:05 01:34 01:58 02:15 02:40 02:50 03:16 03:23 03:48 03:54 04:18 04:25 04:47 04:56 05:16 05:28 05:46 06:01 06:20 06:38 06:59

August 2010

low tide a.m. p.m. 07:20 07:51 08:12 09:05 09:18 10:38 10:43 11:56 : 12:10 12:57 01:18 01:49 02:13 02:36 03:00 03:22 03:44 04:07 04:25 04:50 05:06 05:34 05:46 6:17 06:27 07:02 07:14 07:51 08:15 08:50 09:45 10:07 11:14 11:31 : 12:19 12:40 01:08 01:32 01:48 02:13 02:23 02:48 02:55 03:19 03:26 03:49 03:57 04:18 05:28 05:48 06:01 06:20 06:36 06:55 07:14 07:36 07:58 08:30

low tide a.m. 11:04 : 12:02 12:25 01:04 01:33 00:00 02:29 02:51 03:17 03:40 04:02 04:27 04:44 05:11 05:24 05:54 06:04 06:36 06:44 07:17 07:28 08:00 08:18 08:48 09:18 09:45 10:26 10:54 11:33 : 12:06 12:31 01:09 01:22 01:59 02:07 02:42 02:50 03:20 03:30 03:57 04:10 04:33 04:49 05:11 05:29 05:50 06:11 06:33 06:54 07:21 07:39 08:14 08:30 09:15 09:29 10:21 10:38 11:28

Low-tide timetables (continued)

February 2011

January 2011

March 2011

April 2011

Date 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

low tide a.m. p.m. 01:09 01:51 02:15 02:48 03:14 03:36 04:04 04:18 04:48 04:58 05:26 05:34 06:01 06:09 06:35 06:44 07:08 07:19 07:41 07:56 08:18 08:36 09:00 09:20 09:53 10:10 11:03 11:10 : 12:23 12:21 01:31 01:36 02:26 02:41 03:14 03:35 03:59 04:23 04:43 05:06 05:27 05:48 06:11 06:29 06:56 07:11 07:41 07:54 08:29 08:42 09:20 09:39 10:19 10:55 11:28 : 12:24 12:47 01:38 02:02 02:36

low tide a.m. p.m. 03:03 03:23 03:51 04:04 04:31 04:40 05:06 05:14 05:38 05:46 06:08 06:17 06:38 06:48 07:08 07:21 07:40 07:56 08:17 08:35 09:02 09:21 10:06 10:18 11:33 11:33 : 12:55 01:01 01:58 02:16 02:50 03:14 03:38 04:02 04:23 04:46 05:08 05:28 05:52 06:09 06:36 06:50 07:20 07:32 08:05 08:18 08:54 09:14 09:51 10:31 11:01 : 12:05 12:27 01:21

low tide a.m. p.m. 01:45 02:18 02:44 03:03 03:30 03:42 04:07 04:16 04:40 04:48 05:10 05:18 05:39 05:48 06:07 06:18 06:37 06:50 07:08 07:24 07:44 08:03 08:28 08:48 09:30 09:45 10:55 11:01 : 12:20 12:31 01:27 01:48 02:22 02:48 03:12 03:37 03:59 04:22 04:45 05:05 05:30 05:46 06:14 06:28 06:59 07:11 07:44 07:57 08:32 08:53 09:28 10:09 10:37 11:38 11:58 : 12:51 01:14 01:46 02:12 02:31

Date 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

low tide a.m. p.m. 02:58 03:09 03:36 03:44 03:09 03:17 03:40 03:48 04:09 04:19 04:39 04:51 05:10 05:25 05:44 06:01 06:23 06:41 07:10 07:28 08:12 08:26 09:29 09:39 10:47 11:02 11:54 : 12:17 12:51 01:19 01:44 02:11 02:33 02:58 03:21 03:42 04:08 04:25 04:54 05:08 05:40 05:52 06:26 06:39 07:13 07:34 08:06 08:42 09:07 09:57 10:18 11:04 11:30 : 12:00 12:30 12:47 01:18 01:29

low tide a.m. p.m. 01:59 02:07 02:35 02:43 03:09 03:18 03:42 03:54 04:15 04:29 04:50 05:07 05:27 05:46 06:10 06:29 07:00 07:17 07:59 08:12 09:06 09:19 10:15 10:34 11:19 11:47 : 12:19 12:51 01:15 01:46 02:09 02:36 03:01 03:22 03:50 04:07 04:38 04:50 05:23 05:35 06:07 06:20 06:52 07:10 07:38 08:04 08:30 09:04 09:29 10:03 10:35 11:00 11:39 11:52 : 12:34 12:41 01:21 01:27 02:03 02:10

low tide a.m. p.m. 02:41 02:52 03:18 03:33 03:55 04:13 04:34 04:53 05:15 05:34 06:00 06:17 06:49 07:04 07:43 07:56 08:41 08:56 09:43 10:06 10:46 11:20 11:50 : 12:28 12:52 01:27 01:51 02:19 02:46 03:07 03:37 03:52 04:23 04:34 05:05 05:16 05:45 05:57 06:24 06:39 07:04 07:23 07:47 08:09 08:36 08:59 09:35 09:53 10:42 10:50 11:48 11:49 : 12:44 12:47 01:32 01:41 02:16 02:30

Tide tables supplied by OceanFun Publishing Ltdwww.ofu.co.nz

June 2011

May 2011

Booking information and conditions

How to book All huts and campsites must be booked in advance all year round. Bookings can be made online or by post, fax, email, phone, or in person at selected DOC offices, i-Sites and visitor centres. A booking fee may apply. Before booking It is strongly recommended that you read this brochure before proceeding to the online booking site, particularly the sections: Can I do it? What to take DOC huts and campsites Safety and track closure Tide timetables Booking terms and conditions. To make a booking online You can make a booking online through our website www.doc.govt.nz The online system will allow you 25minutes to complete your booking from the time you select the huts and campsites you wish to book. If a booking is not completed within 25minutes, the places will be released. You will require the following information: which huts and/or campsites and dates you wish to book name, age and country of residence of each walker in your party credit card (Visa or MasterCard only) to which payment will be charged via the ANZ Bank online secure payment system. (The Department of Conservation will not hold your credit card details. Personal information held about walkers will be used for booking purposes only and will not be handed out to any third parties.) To make a manual booking Complete the booking form attached in the middle of this brochure and forward it via fax or mail, or email or phone the Great Walks Helpdesk Nelson. A booking fee will apply. Contact details are listed on the back page of this booklet. If you can, check the hut and campsite availability. Manual bookings cannot be made without full payment of accommodation fees in New Zealand dollars.

Commercial groups A concession (an official authorisation) is required to operate any commercial activity in an area managed by the Department of Conservation. Concessions are required for but not restricted to: guiding (including tramping, walking, fishing, hunting, climbing/ski tours, kayaking/ canoeing); transport services; and commercial education or instruction activities. DOC-managed huts and campsites on the Abel Tasman Coast Track can be booked by commercial operators who have a concession. For more information regarding concessions, visit www.doc.govt.nz Terms and Conditions Bookings not meeting the following Terms and Conditions are treated as invalid, and will be reversed (cancelled) by the Department of Conservation. General Bookings can only be made for people intending to use the facility/ies / service/s at the time of booking. A booking is required for each adult, youth, child and infant intending to use a facility or service. The given name, family name, age, gender and nationality of each party member must be entered at the time of booking. Bookings are not transferable from one person/entity to another. Names listed on the booking as using facility/ies / service/s may not be substituted unless approved via a Department of Conservation office. Substitution of all or the majority of names listed on a booking will not be approved. Those persons named on the booking may be required to produce proof of identity when collecting tickets or accessing facilities/services booked. Accepted forms of ID are a passport, drivers licence, credit card or student ID. Commercial and/or guided groups are not permitted to use Department of Conservation facilities/services unless authorised by the Department of Conservation via a Concession or other agreement. Commercial Agents wishing to make multiple bookings for facilities/services on behalf of customers must hold an Agent agreement with or obtain permission from the Department of Conservation.

Age ranges For booking purposes the following age classifications apply to all services provided by the Department of Conservation (DOC):
Infant 04 years Child 510 years Youth 1117 years Adult 18 years plus

charged in addition to the usual accommodation fee, and where there is no valid booking, the Department of Conservation does not guarantee access to that, or other, facilities/services on the track. The Penalty rate is the Age rate plus the full adult fee. Alterations and cancellation policies General Booking refunds will only be made to the person/ agent who made the original booking. No refunds will be provided in cash. Credit card details are not held by the Department of Conservation and will have to be resubmitted to the Department of Conservation office making your alteration, transfer or cancellation by phone, fax or mail. Sending credit card details by email is not recommended for security reasons. Transfer of booking dates Transferring dates of a booking may only be done within the current booking period. Those wishing to change the start date of their booking to a date where bookings are not open must cancel their booking and rebook once bookings are open. Where bookings are transferred to a date to which a higher fee / price period applies the difference in fees must be paid at the time of the transfer being made. Where bookings are transferred to a date to which a lower fee/ price period applies the difference will be refunded less cancellation fees. The cancellation fee will be calculated as per the table below. Credit card details must be supplied so transfer and refund can be processed. Alterations via internet Selected alterations and transfers that will not affect: 1. the cost or 2. change the facilities/services booked or 3. the people booked into those facilities/services, can be made online up to two days prior to departure. After this date you must contact the Department of Conservation office listed on the confirmation letter/receipt. You are unable to add services or people to your booking. Instead you must make another booking or contact the Department of Conservation office listed on the confirmation letter/receipt.

Services provided by other organisations may use other age ranges. Please check the particular services you require. Persons aged 14 years and under must be accompanied by an adult Alpine sections of some tracks are not recommended for children under 10 years. Please check the specific track information on the website. Prices All prices are in New Zealand dollars and include GST (Goods and Services Tax). Bookings made Online will automatically be charged to your credit card through the ANZ Bank secure payment network at the time the booking is made. Accepted credit cards are Mastercard and Visa. Credit Card information is not held by DOC for security reasons and must be resupplied if alterations or cancellations are made through a DOC office. No bookings will be accepted without payment. Prices, transport timetables and other details may change without notice. Discounts A 10% discount is available for members of NZ Federated Mountain Club, NZ Deer Stalkers Association, LandSAR and NZ Mountain Safety Council Staff and Instructors who hold a Backcountry Hut Pass. You cant get these discounts when you book online. Instead, supply your membership details/number and Backcountry Hut Pass number to the office listed on the track information on www.doc.govt.nz, along with the details of what you want to book. No other discounts are available. Penalty ratesfor non-valid and un-booked accommodation on walking tracks Failure to have a valid booking for a facility/service for the date of use will result in penalty fees being

Alterations via DOC office Alterations may be made to any existing booking and may incur a fee of up to $10. Altering/transferring booking dates 1 to 2 days prior to start date will incur 100% cancellation fee. Cancellations due to DOC closures If the Department of Conservation closes a facility/service due to severe weather or facility/service conditions, a full refund of the fee for the unused Department of Conservation facilities/services will be given. Those visitors who have already started their trip/ booking may be required to leave before their trip/ booking is completed. If your trip is cancelled by the Department of Conservation you must contact the Department of Conservation office listed on your confirmation letter within 7 days to obtain your refund or reschedule your trip. NO refund will be given after this time and trips will not be rescheduled. Visitors will only be rescheduled if there are vacancies available once the service reopens. Cancellations by visitors If visitor/agent cancels their bookings the following cancellation fees apply. These fees are not negotiable.
Cancellation fees are based on the earliest start date* More than 10 days before the start date and within 48hours of making the booking More than 10 days before the start date and more than 48hours after making the booking Between 3 and 10 days before the start date Between 1 and 2 days before the start date On or after the start date Medical circumstances that prevent customer walking track must be accompanied by a medical certificate and requested within one month of the departure date Booked Transport more than 24 hours prior to departure Booked Transport less than 24 hours prior to departure or on day of departure or after departure date Cancellation fee 0% 25% 50% 100% 100% 20% 0% 100%

Travel insurance The Department of Conservation recommends that you arrange travel insurance to guard against the loss of costs associated with cancellation or delay of your trip. The Department of Conservation is unable to rearrange non Department of Conservation booked transport, accommodation and flight bookings if delays should occur. Liability disclaimer The Department of Conservation will not be liable for injury, damage or any costs incurred by visitors.

History
For at least 500years, Maori lived along the Abel Tasman coast, gathering food from the sea, estuaries and forests, and growing kumera on suitable sites. Most occupation was seasonal but some sites in Awaroa Inlet were permanent. On 18December1642, Abel Tasman anchored his two ships near Wainui in Mohua (Golden Bay), the first European to visit Aotearoa New Zealand. He lost four crew in a skirmish with the Maori there, Ngati Tumatakokiri. The Tumatakokiri were conquered around 1800 and the conquerors in turn were invaded in the 1820s. Te Atiawa, Ngati Rarua and Ngati Tama all trace their ancestry to this latter invasion. Frenchman Dumont dUrville followed in January 1827, exploring the area between Marahau and Torrent Bay. Permanent European settlement began around 1855. The settlers logged forests, built ships, quarried granite and fired the hillsides to create pasture. For a time there was prosperity but soon the easy timber was gone and the hills were invaded by gorse and bracken. Little now remains of their enterprise and the ravaged landscape is slowly healing. Abel Tasman National Park was formed after Nelson conservationist Perrine Moncrieff became concerned at the prospect of logging along the beautiful coast. She campaigned to have 15,000 hectares of crown land made into a national park. A petition presented to the Government suggested Abel Tasmans name for the park, which was opened in 1942 on the 300th anniversary of his visit. In January 2007 the foreshore of the Abel Tasman coast became scenic reserve. This provides additional protection for the foreshore that is complementary to the national park.

* Note: If the booking has been transferred to a later date then the original start date will be used for cancellation calculation purposes.

Natural history
Vegetation The parks bedrock is mostly granite. Its physical and chemical qualities determine the nature of the forest cover and details, such as the colour of beaches and streambeds. Soils developed from granite bedrock are relatively infertile, yet damp gullies just above sea level support rich forest. Although many trees were removed during the milling era, a lush understorey of trees and shrubs, tree ferns, kiekie and supplejack remains and the gullies lead the regeneration process. Black beech is the natural cover of the dry ridges and headlands close to the sea, with hard beech further inland where more moisture is available. Kanuka occurs where there have been windfalls or a history of fires. Manuka occurs where repeated burning has degraded the soil. Birdlife DUrville found South Island kokako in the forests around Torrent Bay; these and several other native bird species have since disappeared and bellbird, fantail, pigeon and tui are now the main forest birds. Around the beaches, estuaries and wetlands, pukeko are common. A range of wading birds stalk the estuaries for fish and shellfish, while offshore, gannets, shags and terns can be seen diving for food. Little blue penguins feed at sea during the day and return to burrows on the parks islands at night. In 2007 Abel Tasman Birdsong Trust (www.abeltasmanbirdsong.co.nz) was formed whose vision is to have the forests and beaches of Abel Tasman once again filled with birdsong. You may see the trusts stoat and possum traps on or near the track in Torrent Bay. The traps are regularly checked by volunteers so dont touch the traps and if you see a dead animal tell the next DOC ranger you see. Rivers and estuaries The native fish communities within Abel Tasman waterways are almost pristine, due to the lowland nature of the park (most other national parks being alpine) and its proximity to the sea. A native fish survey has found that the rivers and streams of the park contain a diversity of native freshwater fish, with 14 species recorded, including threatened migratory galaxiid species, such as the short-jawed and giant kokopu, as well as long-finned eels, which are also threatened. Unmodified estuaries are an integral feature of the Abel Tasman Coast, always changing as the tides come and go twice a day. The regular influx of nutrients from the sea

supports many fish, snails, worms, and crabs, which are food for coastal birds. Being sandy (rather than muddy) the parks estuaries are easily explored around low tide. Areas inundated by only the highest tides carry salt marsh vegetation: rushes, glasswort and sea primrose. These plants trap moving sand, often beginning a long process which can result in replacement of the estuarine community with a terrestrial one. Beyond the shoreline The parks rocky coastline is a fascinating place to explore, particularly with snorkel and goggles. Between the tides, plants and animals occupy distinct bands like the forest zones between sea level and the bushline. Periwinkles, tubeworms, neptunes necklace and pink algae are all adapted to a particular level of exposure to sun and wind. Underwater, seaweeds are grazed by sea urchins and Cooks turban shells. Further out are granite reefs, while at Separation Point live bryozoans, tiny animals that build extensive colonies of coral-like structures. Fur seals are found along the coast of the park, particularly on the more remote granite headlands of Separation Point, Tonga Island and Pinnacle Island. Tonga Island Marine Reserve runs one nautical mile out from the coast between Awaroa Head and the headland separating Bark Bay and Mosquito Bay. All marine life within its boundaries is protected and no fishing is allowed. A separate publication on the reserve is available.

DOC management
Conservation management tools While the park and coastline may appear to be completely natural and undeveloped, modern technology is used to provide low-impact facilities and maintain the pristine environment for the 150,000 visitors to the Coast Track each year. Visitors and concessionaire access and use are also managed carefully to ensure that people can have a national park experience. Even in the peak summer period there will be places that are quiet and natural, particularly between Totaranui and Wainui. Toilets and sewerage disposal Containment tanks are custom made to sit underground beneath toilets. These capture all effluent. Sewage is pumped out from septic and containment tank systems annually. It is barged to the nearest roadend and

transported to an urban sewage system at Rabbit Island. In 2007, 71,000 litres of sewage were removed from the park. Solar power Solar power generators are used to drive the pumps that move effluent away from sensitive sites such as Bark Bay spit to a dispersal field away from the public. Radios, using solar-generated power in their rechargable batteries, are used for communication at rangers huts. Small solarpowered computers detect faults and monitor the sewage systems. A solar-powered water filtration system provides drinking water for the main huts. Electronic tools Electronic data loggers are used to record work tasks, download visitor monitoring data and undertake inspections on visitor assets. Management has been further enhanced by introducing electronic computer counters hidden in the track to monitor visitor numbers. Outboard motors Four Stroke motors are now widely used on DOC and commercial operators boats. These have the added benefit of being economic on fuel and are considerably less noisy. Protecting sensitive coastal sites Foreshore restoration has occurred at many sites, such as Mosquito beach, where the remaining coastal spit vegetation has been fenced off and beach steps installed to provide better access. Kayak racks have also been constructed at some sites to help minimise the impact on the foreshore. DOC Hut heating Anchorage and Bark Bay Huts use LPG for heating. Private land This park is unusual in the fact that there are pieces of land along the coast at Anchorage, Torrent Bay and Awaroa in private ownership. When the Abel Tasman National Park was created in 1942, small parcels of land were excluded and remain outside the park to this day. The biggest of these sections is the Moncrieff Private Scenic Reserve, which is managed as part of the park through a covenant with the Crown. Some of the private land has been developed for holiday accommodation. Land use, activities and buildings on this land have to comply with local council rules that are written to reflect the special nature and character of the coastal setting. Access to private land is by permission from the landowner only. National Park rules, such as no dogs, do not apply on private land.

Environmental Care Code

DOC promotes the 10 key principles contained in the NZ Environmental Care Code. This code was developed to guide visitors in ways to minimise their impact on the environment while enjoying the outdoors. The Abel Tasman Coast Track is part of New Zealands smallest national park and the pressure on the environment is increasing. Visitors are urged to remain sensitive to the environment and other users while enjoying the stunning surroundings the park has to offer.
Protect plants and animals Remove rubbish Bury toilet waste Keep waterways clean Take care with fires Camp carefully Keep to the track Consider others Respect our cultural heritage Enjoy your visit Toitu te whenua (leave the land undisturbed).

While the Care Code is general, below is specific environmental care information for visitors to the Abel Tasman National Park. All plants and animals in Abel Tasman National Park are fully protected. These include all marine life, including marine mammals and shellfish in Tonga Island Marine Reserve. Kayakers should keep at least 20metres away from seals. There are no rubbish bins; all litter and rubbish has to be removed. This is part of the carry in, carry out policy that has worked well for many years. Staff, commercial operators and the public need to work together to ensure the park remains clean and litter free. Toilets are provided at all key visitor destinations, huts and campsites throughout the park. To ensure toilet systems run efficiently and dont smell, close toilet lids after use, and close toilet doors. Do not put rubbish or food scraps in toilets. Closing the door will improve the vent efficiency and remove smells. Please use toilets where they have been provided and avoid polluting bush margins and waterways. Away from tracks, campsites and huts, bury your toilet waste in the shallow organic layers of the topsoil well away from any flowing water. Water taps and washing facilities are provided at all the main camps and huts as part of the basic facilities. Potable water is provided at Anchorage, Bark Bay,

Awaroa, Totaranui and Whariwharangi. Supplies are limited so use sparingly. Giardia has been found in Abel Tasman National Park. Water taken from streams may not be safe to drink and should be treated or boiled for 3minutes to make it safe. Avoid disposing of detergents and food scraps, as this causes visible pollution and attracts vermin. Dont use soap in streams. Fires are the single greatest threat to Abel Tasmans regenerating forest communities. Past fires have damaged considerable tracts of the original forest along the coastal bays and inlets. No fires are permitted in the open, including driftwood fires on the beach. A small number of fireplaces are provided at some of the larger campsites where a hut warden is present and firewood has been supplied. Take a portable fuel stove for cooking and boiling water.

Affordable Transport Shuttle Charters/Tours Relocations Rentals Accommodation Golden Bay Kahurangi Abel Tasman www.bookabach.co.nz/4346 Ph 0274237428 exploregb@yahoo.co.nz Golden Bay Coachlines Daily scheduled or chartered transport service for Abel Tasman & Kahurangi National Parks. We provide a friendly all year service with fully air-conditioned and modern vehicles. Bookings & Information: www.gbcoachlines.co.nz or Ph +6435258352 Water transport Marahau Water Taxis 100% locally owned and operated, we offer daily departures from The Abel Tasman Centre in Marahau. Operating year round we have options suitable for day walks and sightseers, along with hikers transport. Free off street car parking available. Ph 0800808018 or +6435278176 www.abeltasmancentre.co.nz Aqua Taxi Your One-Stop water taxi provider in the Abel Tasman. Open Year Round. Service to all main bays. Tramper transport, baggage transfers. Free secure car storage. DOC ticketing agent. Gear hire, gear storage. Departs from Marahau Year Round and from Kaiteriteri peak season. Freephone: 0800278282. Ph +6435278083. www.aquataxi.co.nz Wilsons Abel Tasman All options, all year, 1 call. Fast New Catamaran or Water Taxi ex Kaiteriteri, Marahau, Nelson. 0800 223 5827 or (03) 528 2027, www.AbelTasman.co.nz Kayaks Abel Tasman Kayaks Your One-Stop Abel Tasman Shop! Comprehensive variety of guided day tours, multiday adventures, kayak & walk options and Seal Encounters. Open Year Round. Free secure parking, gear storage, hot showers. Freephone 0800732529 Ph +643 5278022. www.abeltasmankayaks.co.nz

Commercial operators Transport and activities

Bus Somerset Hostel Trampers Transport Linking Wainui and Collingwood. ($60/journey, max 4) for Farewell Spit & Heaphy Track all year. Ph: +64 3 524 8624 info@backpackerscollingwood.co.nz Trek Express 4WD track transport to and from any destination. Groups of all sizes or individuals welcome. Free safe storage of vehicle. Call free 0800128735 for information, or ph/fax +6435402042. Email: info@trekexpress.co.nz www.trekexpress.co.nz Nelson Lakes Shuttles Transport options to all track ends. To fit in with your plans. Ph +64 3 521 1900, info@nelsonlakesshuttles.co.nz www.nelsonlakesshuttles.co.nz Abel Tasman Coachlines All transport requirements for the Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks. Packages including transport, cruises, sea-kayaking etc. For bookings and info: 27 Bridge St, Nelson. Ph: +64 3 548 0285 info@abeltasmantravel.co.nz www.abeltasmantravel.co.nz

Kaiteriteri Kayaks Good times, great people, great trips! Go for a big day out, big lunch and big laughs with the crew at Kaiteriteri Kayaks. Open year round with free parking, free gear storage. Freephone: 08002KAYAK Ph +643 5278383 www.seakayak.co.nz Abel Tasman Freedom Kayaks Hiring kayaks is the sole focus of our business. We prepare you for your big adventure with our renowned, comprehensive safety briefing. 15day hire. Park start available. Free parking, gear hire, and hot showers. Open All Year. Freephone: 0800732529. Ph +643 5278022. www.freedomrentals.co.nz Marahau Sea Kayaks Guided tours and freedom rentals, year round, friendly and professional, free parking, gear storage, hot showers. Ph +6435278176 info@msk.co.nz www.msk.co.nz The Sea Kayak Company Specializing in tours in the Tonga Island Marine Reserve. Freedom rentals available. Ph 0508252925 www.seakayaknz.co.nz info@seakayaknz.co.nz Air Remote Adventure Air Transport Flight connections between Kapiti Coast from Paraparaumu airport to Golden Bay Takaka airport, & Motueka airport. Shuttle connections to track. Available summer. Winter by arrangement PH 0800150338 www.remoteadventures.co.nz Golden Bay Air Scheduled Flights Avoid the crowds. Enter beautiful northern Abel Tasman with Golden Bay Air. Scheduled flights from Wellington and Christchurch to Takaka. Connecting shuttle to Wainui Bay and Totoranui. Book online www.goldenbayair.co.nz, Ph 0800588885 or +643 5258725, info@goldenbayair.co.nz Guided walks Wilsons Abel Tasman Beachfront Lodges, ensuite rooms, great food, no heavy packs, includes boat cruise. Treat yourself 08002235827 or (03)5282027, www.AbelTasman.co.nz

Kahurangi Guided Walks We offer 1 to 5 day small party guided walks with multiple options and also guide the Heaphy Track. Ph +64 3 525 7177 www.abel-tasman-track.co.nz Equipment Motueka Sportsworld Buy or hire all outdoor equipment. Closest outdoor shop to ATNP . Open 7 days in summer. Top clothing & footwear brands for sale. 201 High St, Motueka. Ph +64 3 528 9845 Email: sportsworldmot@xtra.co.nz www.sportsworld.co.nz

Accommodation
Aquapackers, Floating Accommodation, Anchorage Bay We offer unique backpacker style accommodation on board a boat in Anchorage Bay. Open September till May. www.aquapackers.co.nz or 0800 430 744. Wilsons Abel Tasman Beachfront Lodges: Torrent Bay Lodge, Meadowbank Homestead Awaroa; private ensuite rooms. 0800 223 5827 or (03) 528 2027, www.AbelTasman.co.nz The Barn Backpackers Accommodation & Camping Ground Next to track entrance, Hot outdoor baths and fireplace, camp/dorm/private rooms available, Ocean views +6435278043 info@barn.co.nz www.barn.co.nz

i-Site Visitor Centres

Nelson i-Site Visitor Centre, ph: +64 3 548 2304 Motueka i-Site Visitor Centre, ph: +64 3 528 6543 Golden Bay i-Site Visitor Centre, ph: +64 3 525 9136

Other publications
Abel Tasman Coast Track Trip Information Sheet (free) Abel Tasman Parkmap The Inland Track Totaranui Walks flier Tonga Island Marine Reserve brochure (free)

DOC contact details

For more information about the Abel Tasman Coast Track contact: Nelson Regional Visitor Centre Millers Acre / Taha o te Awa 79 Trafalgar Street, PO Box 375 Nelson 7040 Ph: (03) 546 9339 Email: nelsonvc@doc.govt.nz For booking huts or campsites contact: Great Walks Helpdesk Nelson Department of Conservation PO Box 375 Nelson 7040 New Zealand Ph: (03) 546 8210 International: +64 3 546 8210 Fax: (03) 546 9612 International: +64 3 546 9612 Email: greatwalksbooking@doc.govt.nz or visit www.doc.govt.nz Helpdesk hours MonSun 8:30a.m.12p.m. and 1p.m.4:30p.m. Bookings can be made in person at selected DOC offices, i-Sites and visitor centres. A booking fee may apply. For hunting and dog permits for northern Abel Tasman National Park contact DOC Golden Bay (03) 525 8026. For hunting and dog permits for southern Abel Tasman National Park contact Nelson Regional Visitor Centre (03)5469339 or DOC Motueka (03) 528 1810.

Published by: Department of Conservation Nelson/Marlborough Conservancy Private Bag 5, Nelson 7042 June 2010 Crown copyright

Cover: looking north towards Totaranui Photo: D Parr