Abel Tasman Coast Track: Marahau to Anchorage Bay

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Features Commonly Backpacked · Swimming · Views · Wildlife

This is the first part of the Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of New Zealand's nine "Great Walks". The hike is beautiful and quite easy for day hikers or backpackers alike. It keeps to the coastline winding through the bush to emerge on stunning views of the sparkling Tasman Bay and golden sand beaches. There are many smaller campsites along the track (be sure to book ahead) and this section of the track ends in Anchorage Bay, the site of a large full-service campsite, hut, and water-taxi pickup/drop off.

The trail is very well maintained with minimal obstacles, and the elevation gain is very manageable for day hikers and novice backpackers alike. There are many great smaller campsites and beaches along the way to stop for a snack. Anchorage Bay has filtered water available, and there are frequent streams along the route that can be used with proper treatment.

Lots of birds from waterfowl (gulls, cormorants, etc.) and smaller birds in the forrest (fantails, weka, etc.). Large and beautiful black beech and rimu. Manuka, kanuka, and gorse on the drier sections.