Day 3: Abel Tasman Coast Track
Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s smallest and most visited national park. The Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks, which are premier tracks scattered throughout the most beautiful locations on the North and South Islands, they range anywhere from 3 to 6 days to do if hiking each track in full, and they are managed and maintained by The Department of Conservation (DoC).
I took the Abel Tasman AquaTaxi up the coast to Anchorage (still in New Zealand) and walked back to The Barn from there. The hike ended up being a total of 9 miles including short jaunts off the main trail to lookout points and beautiful beaches. It was absolutely epic with stunning views of the rugged coastline, beautiful native bush, a well maintained track, loads of hidden beaches, numerous waterfalls…I see why they call it “Great.”
I packed my day pack with the middle in mind, hoping to find a gorgeous beach to enjoy that bottle of Sauvignon Blanc I purchased yesterday as well as some awesome New Zealand cheese with crackers. My lunch spot exceeded all expectations.
