Te Pukatea Bay Walk/Pit Head Loop Trail is a gorgeous short track in Abel Tasman National Park and the best day walk in the whole park.

It’s the perfect option to say you’ve really “seen” the park without committing to the 3-night, 4-day Great Walk! Although short, the track boasts stunning views of golden beaches, native bush, and the turquoise water Abel Tasman is famous for!

Track overview

• Difficulty: Easy

• Length: 3.5km

• Time: 1-1.5 hours

This trail has very little elevation gain, which makes it a really good option for everyone, including families with small children. On your walk, you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping coastal views before reaching Te Pukatea Bay, a secluded, crescent-shaped beach that will feel like your own private island.

How to get there

To get here, you can either take a water taxi from Kaiteriteri or Marahau to Anchorage Beach (the best option for day visitors) or hike there from Marahau, though that takes around 3-4 hours one way. The water taxi is very easy to catch and leaves multiple times per day. Cruises take around 45 minutes each way and cost $99 return, which includes the Environmental Access Fee (EAF) to help preserve the park.

Staying in the area

If you'd like to stay at Te Pukatea Bay, there is a campsite right on the beachfront along the Abel Tasman Coast Track. It has stunning views, is super peaceful, and is the perfect place to unwind.

I HIGHLY recommend booking as soon as possible because there are only seven spaces at the campsite. A night here costs $19 for NZ residents or $28 for international visitors.