DANNY : DE HEKEnjoy New Zealand’s easiest, safest, sunniest and most popular Great Walk, which has all the features of a glossy travel brochure come to life.

Abel Tasman Coastal Track links a myriad of crescent-shaped coves of glittering golden sand, lapped by the crystal-clear waters of Tasman Bay. It could well be a tropical island setting but for the enigmatic presence of Southern Ocean fur seals lazing under rugged granite headlands.

The track is a 51 km, easy to moderate walk, which can be completed in 3 to 5 days. The terrain is so gentle that walking shoes suffice in summer. An exceptionally mild climate, with long hours of sunshine makes this a track for all seasons and all ages.

The Abel Tasman Coastal Track offers coastal walking at its very best. It is easily accessed from the tiny settlement of Marahau, 18 km north of Motueka or from Totaranui, which is 32 km from Takaka. Regular bus services depart from Nelson and Motueka, and water taxis and cruise boats operate daily. The water taxi service provides wonderful flexibility for track walkers, as one can enter or leave the track at any point. It is possible to choose a combination of walking, kayaking and launch cruising. The track links 4 huts and 21 camp sites, which are spread around the coastline as far as Wainui Bay at the northern exit point. This track is abuzz with activity during the summer so it pays to book hut space early. Alternatively buy a camp pass, carry a tent and choose your own idyllic site.

This track is a great source of pleasure and fascination for a wide range of people – trampers, kayakers, swimmers, fishermen, snorkelers, water-skiers, and families having a day out.

The Abel Tasman Coast Track elicits images of golden days in a perfect setting, dream-like evenings on the beach, brilliant sunsets and starry night skies. Life doesn’t get better than this.