Nelson enjoys some of New Zealand's sunniest weather and sits at the doorstep of Abel Tasman National Park — a coastline of golden beaches, turquoise bays and native forest. This guide covers the short campervan drive from Nelson to the park, how to explore it, and where to camp.
The route: Nelson to Marahau
From Nelson, follow the coast west and north through the orchards and vineyards of the Tasman district:
- Nelson → Mapua (30 km): A charming waterfront wharf precinct with cafés and a little ferry — a lovely first stop.
- Mapua → Motueka (25 km): The main service town before the park, with supermarkets and fuel — stock up here.
- Motueka → Kaiteriteri (15 km): A gorgeous golden-sand beach and a major water-taxi departure point.
- Kaiteriteri → Marahau (10 km): The southern gateway to Abel Tasman and the start of the Coast Track.
Exploring the park
There is no road through Abel Tasman, so the magic happens on foot or on the water. The best day out for most campervan travellers is a water taxi from Marahau or Kaiteriteri: get dropped at a far beach such as Bark Bay or Anchorage and walk a scenic section of the Abel Tasman Coast Track back, picking up the taxi again at a pre-arranged bay. Kayaking the sheltered turquoise bays — guided or freedom — is the other classic experience.
Where to camp
Base your campervan at a holiday park in Marahau, Kaiteriteri or Motueka, all with powered sites and easy access to the water taxis. Book ahead over the November–April peak. Freedom camping is tightly controlled around the park, so stick to designated sites and follow local signage.
Beyond Abel Tasman
With more time, continue over the hill to Golden Bay (Takaka, Wharariki Beach and the Te Waikoropupū Springs) or head south into the heart of the South Island. Nelson also pairs naturally with a Cook Strait ferry crossing if you are coming from the North Island.
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