Abel Tasman Coast Track

Transcription

1 Abel Tasman Coast Track 2009 / 2010 Season ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK

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

3 CONTENTS (continued) History 37 Natural history 38 DOC management 39 Environmental Care Code 41 Commercial operators 42 Other publications 45 DOC contact details 46 Introduction The Abel Tasman Coast Track, located in Abel Tasman National Park on South Island s northern shores, is one of the DOC Great Walks*. The Coast Track extends for 52 km 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. 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 water taxis to beaches along the track or kayak along the coast. *Great Walks are the Department s 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 café. Marahau has accommodation, a shop and cafés. 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: Cleopatras Pool. Photo: D Parr sealed road. is unsealed. road is unsealed. the road is rough and unsealed. There are two fords, 5

4 on the northern side of the inlet, it s 25 minutes 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 ) Water taxis operate 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 250 per day and drop in August to less than 25. Boat pickup on a rough day. Photo: G. E. Moore 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. Can I do it? To ensure you enjoy your trip in all weathers, you will need to be reasonably fit and have good equipment. If you are a day walker you can expect to: 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 water taxi among some huts and campsites. Don t leave valuables in your luggage as it will be left unattended. To arrange luggage transport, contact transport operators directly. (Contact details are on pages 42 to 45.) 6 7

5 options on where to stay. due to the remote and exposed coastline. Approximate paddling times for experienced kayakers in calm conditions without stops are: Never risk your life by kayaking in dangerous seas! Kayaks. Photo: D Parr Other activities Kayaking of two people and previous sea-kayaking experience are some of whom are listed on pages 43 and 44, or i-sites. Kayaking is more weather dependent than walking along the Coast Track, so you are advised to: plan for the worst weather head 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. 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. Viewing seals 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: 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, concessions, visit: 8 9

6 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 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. 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 1 May and 1 October. The mountain bikers can then continue over Gibbs Hill to Totaranui. Groups need to limit their size to 8 riders 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 It s 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 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.) 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 are only allowed in the formal fireplaces. In dry conditions it may be necessary for DOC to ban all fires. 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 20 metres to a seal when it is on the land

7 Rubbish: no rubbish facilities are provided: not burn cleanly 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 1800 mm and the sun shines around 2200 hours 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. MAX TEMP C MIN TEMP C RAINY DAYS July August September October November December January March April May June Day visitors. Photo: D Parr Day visitors should take: purchase on the track.) antihistamine for allergy to wasp stings). Overnight visitors in summer should take everything suggested for day visitors plus the list below: to change into at night 12 13

8 DOC huts and campsites DOC provides a range of accommodation along the Coast Track, including four huts, 18 campsites 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 1 October and 30 April. Huts Bridge between Torrent Bay and Bark Bay. Photo: Markus Baumann towel, soap campsites with a large number of other people) energy value, e.g. cheese or dehydrated meals. Overnight visitors in winter should also take: are better than cotton as they dry quickly and give more warmth. 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 1 October and 30 April; and five consecutive nights between 1 May and 30 September. To book in winter more than two nights contact the Great Walks Helpdesk in Nelson. Observation Beach Campsite. Photo: Andy Thompson 14 15

9 CAMPSITE Water supply Scheduled Water Taxi Stop Cooking Shelter Toilet Tinline Bay T Apple Tree Bay T Akersten Bay T Observation Beach* T Watering Cove T Te Pukatea Bay T Anchorage P Medlands Beach T Bark Bay P Mosquito Bay* T Tonga Quarry T Onetahuti Bay T Awaroa P Waiharakeke T Totaranui Coast Track+ P Mutton Cove T Whariwharangi Bay P Key * Boat access only + Has road access P T Potable water Treat, boil or filter water Totaranui Coast Track Camper s Campsite. Photo: Pam Mytton one campsite between 1 October and 30 April; and five consecutive nights between 1 May and 30 September. 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: night limit for Coast Track campers. need to book at least one other campsite on the track. for longer periods over the summer. Bookings are only Campground booking forms can be downloaded from 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 16 17

10 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 2 hours 30 minutes to drive between Totaranui or Wainui and Marahau (approx. 100 km). This road is narrow, winding and unsealed in places. By water taxi it takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to travel between Totaranui and Marahau. The track is well serviced by public transport including transport operators directly. (See page 42.) Vehicle parking: DOC provides a carpark at Marahau, Totaranui, Wainui and Awaroa roadends. Cars are parked at owner s/driver s risk. Secure parking can be arranged at various Marahau businesses. Bus services operate in summer from Nelson and Motueka to major roadends 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. Water taxis operate year round from Marahau and Kaiteriteri. The scheduled water taxi pickup locations are: Anchorage, Torrent Bay, Bark Bay, Onetahuti, Awaroa and Totaranui. Tidal crossings Consult a tide timetable (pages 28 31) when planning your trip as two estuaries on the track are only passable at low tide: either side of low tide. 1 hour 30 minutes before and 2 hours 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 1 hour 25 minutes, and at Bark Bay add 15 minutes. If walking north and planning a three-day, two-night trip, the following plan may be helpful: between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. and between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m.), then it is best to spend the first night at or around Anchorage and the second at Awaroa. between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. and between 11 p.m. and 4 a.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. Kayakers in Torrent Estuary. Photo: Markus Baumann Average walking times for tidal crossings 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: 5:00 a.m. and 5:20 p.m. Walking day: walk from Marahau to Anchorage no tidal crossings Walking time: 4 hours.

11 Safety and track closure In case of any accident or injury that requires emergency evacuation, contact Police Search and Rescue via DOC staff or water taxi 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: 5:45 a.m. and 6:07 p.m. Walking day: walk from Anchorage to Awaroa including the Onetahuti crossing between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. The evening low tide is 6:07 p.m. and you can cross 3 hours before or after. Then walk on to Awaroa campsite. Walking time: Anchorage to Bark Bay 3 hours; Bark Bay to Onetahuti Crossing 2 hours 30 minutes; Onetahuti crossing 2 minutes; Onetahuti crossing to Awaroa 2 hours. Total 7 hours 30 minutes. 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. Day 3 Low tides: 6:30 a.m. and 6:52 p.m. Walking day: walk across Awaroa crossing before 8:30 a.m. The crossing can be walked between 5 a.m. (1 hour 30 minutes before 6:30 a.m.) and 8:30 a.m. (2 hours after 6:30 a.m.). Then walk via Totaranui to Whariwharangi. Walking time: Awaroa crossing 25 minutes; northern side of Awaroa crossing to Totaranui 1 hour 15 minutes; Totaranui to Whariwharangi 3 hours. Total 4 hours 40 minutes. Day 4 Low tides: 7:15 a.m. and 7:37 p.m. Walking day: walk from Whariwharangi to Wainui carpark no tidal crossings Walking time: 1 hour 30 minutes. Tonga Quarry Campsite. Photo: Mark Townsend 20 21

12 Whariwharangi Hut. Photo: DOC Awaroa Hut. Photo: Alison Scott Bark Bay Hut. Photo: Markus Baumann Anchorage Hut. Photo: Markus Baumann

13 Track notes the Coast Track Marahau to Anchorage, 4 h, 12.4 km French names left by d Urville and his crew Adele, Simonet, Torrent add 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, 3 h, 8.7 km 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 here. 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 47 m 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, 4 h, 11.5 km (tidal) Cross Bark Bay estuary or follow the all-tide track (only adds 10 min) 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. Track profile 25 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 3 hours either side of low tide. The track then climbs over Tonga Saddle and descends to Awaroa Inlet. Follow the shore for 15 minutes to Awaroa Hut and campsite. Awaroa to Totaranui, 1 h 30 min, 5.5 km (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, water taxi pickup point and Coast Track walkers campsite. Totaranui to Whariwharangi, 3 h, 7.5 km 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 hut a restored farm homestead and campsite are just behind the beach. Add 1 hour to go via Separation Point. (See Track notes side trips, on next page.) Whariwharangi to Wainui, 1 h 30 min, 5.5 km From Whariwharangi Hut follow a small stream then climb 26 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 500 metres 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 notes side 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 1 h 30 min 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 (1 hour). 27

14 Low-tide timetables JULY 2009 AUGUST 2009 SEPTEMBER 2009 OCTOBER 2009 NOVEMBER 2009 DECEMBER 2009 LOW TIDE LOW TIDE LOW TIDE DATE a.m. p.m. a.m. p.m. a.m. p.m. 1 10:07 10:39 11:30 --:-- 12:56 01: :05 11:48 12:25 12:41 01:39 02: :-- 12:05 01:19 01:41 02:17 02: :48 01:04 02:03 02:29 02:50 03: :37 01:58 02:41 03:09 03:22 03: :20 02:45 03:16 03:44 03:54 04: :59 03:27 03:49 04:15 04:26 04: :35 04:05 04:21 04:46 05:00 05: :10 04:39 04:54 05:16 05:35 05: :44 05:12 05:27 05:47 06:14 06: :19 05:45 06:02 06:21 06:57 07: :55 06:19 06:40 07:00 07:49 08: :33 06:54 07:22 07:48 08:55 10: :13 07:35 08:12 08:55 10:23 11: :58 08:25 09:13 10:24 11:55 --: :48 09:30 10:32 11:50 12:43 01: :47 10:48 --:-- 12:01 01:37 02: :56 --:-- 12:57 01:18 02:24 02: :04 12:12 01:53 02:19 03:08 03: :09 01:25 02:43 03:09 03:50 04: :05 02:29 03:29 03:53 04:30 04: :57 03:23 04:14 04:34 05:08 05: :46 04:12 04:56 05:12 05:46 05: :34 04:57 05:37 05:49 06:23 06: :21 05:40 06:18 06:26 07:04 07: :06 06:21 06:58 07:06 07:51 08: :52 07:03 07:40 07:53 09:53 10: :37 07:48 08:30 09:02 11:15 --: :25 08:42 09:33 10:40 12:21 12: :17 09:53 10:55 11:59 01:20 01: :19 11:16 --:-- 12:17 LOW TIDE LOW TIDE LOW TIDE DATE a.m. p.m. a.m. p.m. a.m. p.m. 1 02:05 02:32 02:40 03:11 02:48 03: :43 03:10 03:19 03:48 03:37 04: :18 03:44 03:59 04:25 04:26 04: :52 04:17 04:40 05:03 05:13 05: :26 04:49 05:22 05:44 06:00 06: :01 05:22 06:06 06:28 06:47 07: :37 05:58 06:51 07:18 07:35 08: :16 06:37 07:41 08:17 08:25 09: :58 07:22 08:36 09:26 09:21 10: :45 08:18 09:41 10:42 10:27 11: :40 09:33 10:57 11:52 11:41 --: :49 11:03 --:-- 12:16 12:16 12: :15 --:-- 12:53 01:23 01:16 01: :20 12:41 01:48 02:18 02:13 02: :22 01:49 02:38 03:04 03:05 03: :15 02:42 03:24 03:45 03:52 04: :02 03:27 04:07 04:23 04:35 04: :46 04:07 04:47 04:58 05:13 05: :27 04:43 05:26 05:33 05:49 05: :06 05:18 06:03 06:08 06:24 06: :44 05:52 06:40 06:46 06:58 07: :20 06:26 07:18 07:28 07:33 07: :58 07:04 07:59 08:15 08:10 08: :38 07:47 08:44 09:10 08:52 09: :23 08:44 09:38 10:11 09:43 10: :18 09:59 10:42 11:13 10:46 11: :27 11:20 11:53 --:-- --:-- 12: :46 --:-- 12:11 12:57 12:08 01: :25 12:55 01:06 01:51 01:16 02: :16 01:49 01:58 02:39 02:22 03: :00 02:32 03:22 03:

15 Low-tide timetables (continued) JANUARY 2010 FEBRUARY 2010 MARCH 2010 APRIL 2010 MAY 2010 JUNE 2010 LOW TIDE LOW TIDE LOW TIDE DATE a.m. p.m. a.m. p.m. a.m. p.m. 1 04:16 04:40 05:36 05:58 04:32 04: :05 05:27 06:18 06:43 05:14 05: :52 06:15 06:59 07:27 05:54 06: :36 07:03 07:39 08:11 06:33 07: :21 07:51 08:22 08:57 07:11 07: :05 08:41 09:11 09:47 07:50 08: :54 09:34 10:16 10:48 08:35 09: :50 10:30 11:44 --:-- 09:35 10: :00 11:33 12:04 01:06 11:06 11: :-- 12:20 01:26 02:08 --:-- 12: :41 01:30 02:32 02:56 12:54 01: :50 02:27 03:23 03:36 02:03 02: :50 03:14 04:03 04:11 02:54 03: :40 03:54 04:37 04:43 03:33 03: :22 04:31 05:08 05:14 04:07 04: :59 05:05 05:38 05:44 04:38 04: :32 05:37 06:06 06:15 05:08 05: :03 06:10 06:35 06:47 05:37 05: :34 06:43 07:06 07:21 06:07 06: :05 07:17 07:40 07:59 06:40 06: :37 07:53 08:21 08:43 07:16 07: :13 08:32 09:16 09:36 08:01 08: :55 09:17 10:36 10:47 09:00 09: :51 10:11 --:-- 12:11 10:22 10: :09 11:19 12:19 01:27 11:52 --: :-- 12:36 01:47 02:27 12:05 01: :41 01:47 02:54 03:20 01:28 02: :03 02:46 03:46 04:08 02:32 02: :10 03:38 03:23 03: :04 04:26 04:08 04: :52 05:13 04:50 05:12 LOW TIDE LOW TIDE LOW TIDE DATE a.m. p.m. a.m. p.m. a.m. p.m. 1 05:29 05:54 04:42 05:12 05:39 06: :06 06:34 05:19 05:52 06:20 06: :43 07:14 05:59 06:32 07:06 07: :22 06:55 06:43 07:16 07:55 08: :06 07:41 07:35 08:06 08:49 09: :03 08:36 08:39 09:06 09:44 10: :24 09:47 09:49 10:15 10:39 11: :49 11:09 10:52 11:25 11:34 --: :53 --:-- 11:46 --:-- 12:25 12: :19 12:43 12:23 12:33 01:15 01: :13 01:25 01:11 01:17 02:01 02: :55 02:03 01:52 01:58 02:45 03: :31 02:38 02:31 02:39 03:29 03: :04 03:12 03:08 03:21 04:14 04: :37 03:47 03:46 04:03 05:00 05: :09 04:23 04:26 04:47 05:49 06: :44 05:00 05:09 05:32 06:41 06: :21 05:40 05:57 06:19 07:35 07: :03 06:24 06:50 07:09 08:32 08: :53 07:14 07:51 08:06 09:32 09: :56 08:13 08:57 09:11 10:33 11: :13 09:25 10:04 10:24 11:35 --: :31 10:47 11:07 11:36 12:16 12: :38 --:-- --:-- 12:06 01:14 01: :04 12:37 12:39 01:01 02:03 02: :06 01:29 01:33 01:54 02:47 03: :57 02:18 02:20 02:43 03:27 03: :43 03:05 03:03 03:29 04:05 04: :25 03:49 03:44 04:12 04:41 05: :04 04:31 04:22 04:53 05:17 05:45 05:00 05:32 Tide tables supplied by OceanFun Publishing Ltd

16 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, , 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: To make a booking online You can make a booking online through our website The online system will allow you 25 minutes to complete your booking from the time you select the huts and campsites you wish to book. If a booking is not completed within 25 minutes, the places will be released. You will require the following information: your party 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 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 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 the facility/ies / service/s at the time of booking. infant intending to use a facility or service. nationality of each party member must be entered at the time of booking. another. 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. may be required to produce proof of identity when collecting tickets or accessing facilities/services booked. Accepted forms of ID are a passport, driver s licence, credit card or student ID. to use Department of Conservation facilities/services unless authorised by the Department of Conservation via a Concession or other agreement. for facilities/services on behalf of customers must hold an Agent agreement with or obtain permission from the Department of Conservation

17 Age ranges apply to all services provided by the Department of Conservation (DOC): Infant Child Youth Adult 0 4 years 5 10 years years 18 years plus ranges. Please check the particular services you require. accompanied by an adult for children under 10 years. Please check the specific track information on the website. Prices (Goods and Services Tax). your credit card through the ANZ Bank secure payment network at the time the booking is made. reasons and must be resupplied if alterations or cancellations are made through a DOC office. change without notice. Discounts Federated Mountain Club, NZ Deer Stalkers Association, LandSAR and NZ Mountain Safety Council Staff and Instructors who hold a Backcountry Hut Pass. Instead, supply your membership details/number and Backcountry Hut Pass number to the office listed on the track information on along with the details of what you want to book. Penalty rates for non-valid and un-booked accommodation on walking tracks for the date of use will result in penalty fees being 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. Alterations and cancellation policies General who made the original booking. 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 is not recommended for security reasons. Transfer of booking dates 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. higher fee / price period applies the difference in fees must be paid at the time of the transfer being made. 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

18 Alterations via DOC office may incur a fee of up to $10. Cancellations due to DOC closures 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. booking may be required to leave before their trip/ booking is completed. 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. available once the service reopens. Cancellations by visitors cancellation fees apply. Cancellation fees are based on the earliest start date* More than 10 days before the start date and within 48 hours of making the booking More than 10 days before the start date and more than 48 hours 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 * Note: If the booking has been transferred to a later date then the original start date will be used for cancellation calculation purposes. Travel insurance arrange travel insurance to guard against the loss of costs associated with cancellation or delay of your trip. non Department of Conservation booked transport, accommodation and flight bookings if delays should occur. Liability disclaimer injury, damage or any costs incurred by visitors. History For at least 500 years, 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 18 December 1642, 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 d Urville followed in January 1827, exploring the area between Marahau and Torrent Bay. Permanent European settlement began around 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 Tasman s name for the park, which was opened in 1942 on the 300 th 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

19 Natural history Vegetation The park s 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 D Urville 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 park s islands at night. In 2007 Abel Tasman Birdsong Trust 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 don t 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 park s 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 park s 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 Cook s 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 and Tonga 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 38 39

20 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. 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. 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 outboard motors are now widely used on DOC boats and most water taxis. 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 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 Zealand s 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. fully protected. These include all marine life, including marine mammals and shellfish in Tonga Island Marine Reserve. Kayakers should keep at least 20 metres away from seals. 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. and campsites throughout the park. To ensure toilet systems run efficiently and don t 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 40 41

21 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. 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 3 minutes to make it safe. Avoid disposing of detergents and food scraps, as this causes visible pollution and attracts vermin. Don t use soap in streams. 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. Bus Commercial operators Transport and activities Golden Bay Coachlines Your transport for the Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks. Bookings and information contact: info@gbcoachlines.co.nz Somerset Hostel Trampers Transport Linking Wainui and Collingwood. ($60/journey, max 4) for Farewell Spit & Heaphy Track all year. Ph: info@backpackerscollingwood.co.nz Trek Express track shuttle and passenger service 4WD track transport to and from any destination. Groups of all sizes or individuals welcome. Free SAFE storage of vehicle. Call free for information, or ph/fax or info@trekexpress.co.nz Nelson Lakes Shuttles Transport options to all track ends. To fit in with your plans. Ph , info@nelsonlakesshuttles.co.nz Web: 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: info@ abeltasmantravel.co.nz Affordable Transport Your One Stop Shop (LTNZ Licensed) Bus Charters & Tours Kahurangi Abel Tasman Golden Bay vehicle rental & accommodation Ph exploregb@yahoo.co.nz Water taxi Wilsons Abel Tasman All options, all year, 1 call. Fast New Catamaran or Water Taxi ex Kaiteriteri, Marahau, Nelson or (03) , Marahau Water Taxis Scheduled daily departures year round, from Marahau into the Abel Tasman. Day walkers and hikers transport both available. Free off street parking. Ph or Aqua Taxi Aqua Taxis operate all year round. We run regular services the entire length of the National Park. Running additional early and late departure times. Depart from Marahau or Kaiteriteri. Free secure off-street Marahau , 0800 AQUA TAXI info@aquataxi.co.nz Kayaks The Sea Kayak Company Hi join us sea kayaking in the Abel Tasman National Park. FREEPHONE or info@seakayaknz.co.nz

22 Abel Tasman Kayaks Abel Tasman Kayaks a premium tourism experience for discerning travellers offering a comprehensive portfolio of guided, day & multi-day kayak tours. Open 1 Nov 30 Apr. Free pick-ups, parking, showers, gear storage Kaiteriteri Kayaks Enjoy our blend of good times, great people, personalityplus guides and interactive trips! Go for a big day out, big lunch, lots of laughs join a trip with Kaiteriteri Kayaks. Open 1 Nov 30 Apr. Free pick-ups, gear storage Ocean River Hiring kayaks is the sole focus of our business. We prepare you for your big adventure through our renowned and comprehensive safety briefing. 1 5 day hire. Open all year. Free parking, showers & gear storage Marahau Sea Kayaks Guided tours and freedom rentals, year round, friendly and professional, free parking, gear storage, hot showers. Ph info@msk.net.nz Air Golden Bay Air Scheduled Services Avoid the crowds visit beautiful northern Abel Tasman. Enter via Golden Bay with Golden Bay Air. Scheduled flights Wellington Takaka with connecting shuttle to Wainui Bay (Sep Apr). Charter flights year round. View schedule and book online at Ph: or info@goldenbayair.co.nz Remote Adventure Air Transport Charter flights to/from the area. Viewing Kahurangi, Abel Tasman and Golden Bay. Available summer. Ph Guided walks Kahurangi Guided Walks We offer 1 to 5 day small party guided walks with multiple options and also guide the Heaphy Track. Ph Wilsons Abel Tasman Beachfront Lodges, ensuite rooms, fine food, no heavy packs, includes boat cruise. Treat yourself or (03) , 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 sportsworldmot@xtra.co.nz Accommodation The Barn Backpackers Accommodation & Camping Ground Campsites with all facilities; backpacker shared rooms and private cabins. Full activity booking service info@barn.co.nz Aquapackers, Floating Accommodation, Anchorage Bay We offer unique backpacker style accommodation on board a boat in Anchorage Bay. Open September till May. or Wilsons Abel Tasman Beachfront Lodges: Torrent Bay Lodge, Meadowbank Homestead Awaroa; private ensuite rooms or (03) , i-site Visitor Centres Nelson i-site Visitor Centre, ph: Motueka i-site Visitor Centre, ph: Golden Bay i-site Visitor Centre, ph: 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) 44 45