Tōtaranui Campground

Tōtaranui Campground is the only large-scale campground within Abel Tasman National Park, set right behind a stunning crescent-shaped golden sand beach at the park’s northern end. With 250 sites spread across 23 zones separated by shelterbelts, the campground can accommodate up to 850 people yet still feels spacious and private. The beach offers crystal-clear swimming, kayaking, and fishing, while a beautiful lagoon at the northern end is perfect for children to explore. It is also the only coastal section of the Abel Tasman accessible by road, making it a gateway for both car-based campers and those starting the famous Abel Tasman Coast Track.

All sites are unpowered, suitable for tents, campervans, and caravans. Six modern amenities blocks are spread throughout the campground, providing flush toilets, cold showers, drinking water, dishwashing sinks, and a dump station. Campfires are permitted in designated fireplaces when no fire ban is in effect. No dogs are allowed within the national park. Advance booking is required year-round, and a minimum fee of $40 per night applies during the peak period from 26 December to 8 February, with a maximum 14-night stay. The DOC Campsite Pass can be used outside peak dates. Mobile phone coverage is patchy at best, which campers consistently praise as part of the appeal. Access is via a 12km narrow, winding unsealed road from Pohara, and camp gates are locked overnight.

The Abel Tasman Coast Track starts right from the campground, with day walks north to Anapai, Mutton Cove, and Separation Point offering varied terrain and spectacular coastal views. Water taxis run daily from Tōtaranui to Kaiteriteri and Marahau, opening up options for one-way walks along the coast. Kayaking is popular along the pristine Abel Tasman coastline, where you may spot fur seals and native birdlife. The Gibbs Hill mountain bike track is open from May to September. The nearest shops are in Pohara (25 minutes) and the town of Takaka (45 minutes), which has supermarkets, cafes, galleries, and a cinema.