Abel Tasman National Park

Awaroa (long valley) was first inhabitated by the Maori around 1000 years ago. Remnants of their occupation of this land has been found in the discovery of food storage pits,middens (collection of shells from feasting), eel traps and signs of gathering kiekie berries and Pingao.

Abel Tasman National Park is named for the Dutch Explorer and Navigator who visited in 1642. Covering 22 000 hectares along the shores of Tasman Bay, the national park is one of the most scenic in the country with its golden sand beaches, river estuaries and offshore islands. A mild climate and the most sunshine hours in the country make this an ideal summer holiday destination.

It was officially designated as a National Park in 1942.