Abel Tasman Family Fun

The Abel Tasman Water Taxi & Beach Day is a full-day activity that's suitable for families with children of all ages, from 0+. You'll start the day by hopping on the water taxi at either Kaiteriteri or Marahau, and then get dropped off at one of the park's stunning beaches, such as Anchorage Bay or Bark Bay.

Once you're on the beach, you're free to spend the day swimming, exploring, and relaxing in the sun. The beaches in Abel Tasman National Park are truly world-class, with golden sand and crystal-clear water.

The water taxi will then pick you up at the end of the day and take you back to where you started. It's a hassle-free way to experience the park's beautiful beaches without having to worry about transport or accommodation.

The Abel Tasman Water Taxi & Beach Day is great value for money, with prices starting at $45 per child and $70 per adult. It's a full-day activity, so you'll get plenty of time to enjoy the beach and make the most of your money.

The activity is suitable for families with children of all ages, from 0+. The beaches are stroller-friendly, and there are plenty of shade trees and picnic tables to make it easy to spend the day with young children.

To make the most of your Abel Tasman Water Taxi & Beach Day, be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). It's also a good idea to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water, as the sun can be strong in the park.

The best time to visit Abel Tasman National Park is during the summer months (December to February), when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere and lower prices, consider visiting during the shoulder season (October to November or March to April).

June is winter in the Abel Tasman, and while it's a different experience from a summer beach day, it has real appeal. The crowds are gone, water-taxi schedules are quieter, and prices are at their lowest — you'll often have those golden beaches almost to yourselves. Nelson is the sunniest region in the country, so June frequently delivers crisp, clear, still days that are perfect for the boat ride and a coastal walk.

The big caveat is the water: it's cold in June, so swimming is really only for the hardy. Instead, frame the day around the scenic water-taxi ride and a section of the easy Coast Track, with beach time for exploring rock pools, building sandcastles and a picnic rather than swimming. Check that your chosen operator is running winter sailings, as some reduce frequency, and pack warm layers — it's chilly out on the water.

Water taxis run from Kaiteriteri and Marahau with operators like Abel Tasman Aqua Taxi, Wilsons and Sea Shuttle. The classic family approach is to be dropped at one beach and walk a section of the Abel Tasman Coast Track to your pick-up point — Anchorage to Torrent Bay is a popular, gentle option. The track is one of NZ's easiest Great Walks: wide, well-graded and very manageable for primary-age kids. Keep walks to a 2–3 hour section, and check tide times, as the Torrent Bay estuary short-cut is only passable around low tide.

To book your Abel Tasman Water Taxi & Beach Day, simply visit the official website or contact the operator directly. You can also book through a local tourist information center or travel agent.

To save money, be sure to book in advance and take advantage of any special deals or discounts that may be available. You can also consider visiting during the shoulder season, when prices are often lower.