Unspoiled beaches. Solitary coves. Emerald seas. Lush forests of fern trees and vines.

No, you haven't clicked on a hyperlink to an advertisement for some Caribbean resort. Welcome to New Zealand's Abel Tasman National Park, which boasts the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, a great walk that will challenge your idea of what it means to go on a backpacking trip. This is New Zealand's most popular track, so gentle that it can be done by anyone, even small children. Well-graded trails lead you from one beach to the next. For accommodations, you can take your choice of four huts (reservations required), or use some of the many tenting areas.

Know Before You Go Miles: 32, with options to make it shorter (you can arrange for boat-taxi pick-up at several beaches) Days: Three to five Notes: Sea kayaks are also a popular way to see the park, and can be rented in Marahau, at the start of the trek, just outside the park. Weather: The northern part of the South Island enjoys a Mediterranean climate, and the track can be hiked any time of year. Sandflies can be a problem.

Move on to Tongariro Northern Circuit

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