Nelson Bridge House244C Bridge St · Nelson NZ
Abel Tasman accommodation · Nelson base

Abel Tasman accommodation — stay in Nelson, an hour or so away

Nelson Bridge House is in Nelson itself, not inside the national park. It's a renovated two-bedroom holiday home, an hour to an hour and a quarter's drive from Kaiteriteri and Mārahau, the gateways to Abel Tasman National Park. That makes it an easy day trip, with the city's restaurants, beaches and airport close by when you get back.

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Why stay in Nelson for Abel Tasman?

  • One base, many day trips — combine Abel Tasman with Nelson's beaches, wineries, mountain biking and the Saturday market, without moving accommodation.
  • Walk to restaurants and bars — after a day on the water, central Nelson is about a 10-minute walk from the house.
  • Close to the airport — Nelson Airport is about 15 minutes' drive away.
  • Room to spread out — a whole house with two bedrooms, a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and decks with a BBQ.

If you plan to walk the whole Abel Tasman Coast Track over several days, staying near the track at Mārahau or Kaiteriteri may suit you better before and after the walk.

Getting there from Nelson

Drive west via Richmond and Motueka. Kaiteriteri and Mārahau are each an hour to an hour and a quarter from Bridge House, depending on traffic and stops — allow extra time in summer holiday traffic. Water taxis, scenic cruises and kayak trips into the park leave from both. In summer, book boats and kayaks ahead and leave early.

Abel Tasman day trip ideas

  • Water taxi and walk — take a water taxi up the coast, then walk a section of the Abel Tasman Coast Track (one of New Zealand's Great Walks) back to a pick-up point.
  • Sea kayaking — guided or freedom kayak trips explore sheltered coves, often with fur seals around Tonga Island.
  • Scenic cruise — a relaxed few hours on the water past Split Apple Rock and the golden bays.
  • Kaiteriteri Beach — if you just want golden sand and swimming, with the Kaiteriteri mountain bike park nearby.

Tips for a day in Abel Tasman

  • Some beaches and parts of the Coast Track have tidal crossings. Check tide times and the Department of Conservation (DOC) track information before you go.
  • Pack sunscreen, water and layers: the sun is strong and the weather on the water can change.
  • Dogs aren't allowed in Abel Tasman National Park (guide dogs excepted). Arrange a dog sitter for longer outings, such as a day trip to Abel Tasman (see our pet policy).

More things to do from Nelson

For beaches, wineries, rainy-day ideas and other day trips, see our guide to things to do in Nelson.

Travel times are approximate. Please check with operators and DOC before you go.