Whariwharangi Track — A Northern Abel Tasman Favourite
Whariwharangi Track, Abel Tasman, NZ
If you're looking for a memorable walk in Golden Bay, the track into Whariwharangi Hut at the northern end of the Abel Tasman National Park is a local favourite. With varied terrain, lush native bush, coastal viewpoints and a peaceful beach at the end, it’s a brilliant day walk — or overnight adventure.
Whether you’re visiting Golden Bay or exploring your own backyard, this track offers classic Abel Tasman scenery without the crowds.
🛤️ Track Overview
Most walkers begin at the Wainui Bay carpark, about 20 minutes from Tākaka. The track starts with a steady climb through beautiful native forest before opening up to views across the northern coastline.
Expect:
Well-maintained DOC track
Steady ascent & descent (nothing technical)
Mix of bush, ridge sections & open clearings
Birdlife, coastal views & a rewarding beach finish
If you enjoy tracks with good variety and a sense of adventure, this one ticks the box.
🏡 Whariwharangi Hut & Beach
At the base of the valley sits Whariwharangi Hut, a restored homestead managed by DOC and one of the most unique huts in the Abel Tasman.
A short track leads to Whariwharangi Beach — quiet, wild, and perfect for a snack and a breather before your return or onward journey.
🔁 Continue to Totaranui
Many hikers choose to extend the walk and continue through to Totaranui, another stunning coastal spot within the Abel Tasman National Park.
This longer route offers:
Sweeping coastal lookouts
Native bush valleys
Iconic Abel Tasman coastal scenery
A rewarding finish at golden-sand Totaranui Beach
It’s a great day mission for active walkers or a relaxed overnight option if staying at the hut.
🚐 Track Transport & Shuttle Options
Doing this as a one-way hike? We've got your transport covered.
Golden Bay Rides, our local shuttle & taxi service, provides:
✅ Abel Tasman Track transport
✅ Wainui Bay shuttle
✅ Totaranui shuttle
✅ Golden Bay walking track transfers
✅ Private transport from your accommodation
We can:
Drop you at the start of the track in Wainui Bay so you can walk through to Totaranui
Pick you up at Totaranui and return you to your vehicle
Reverse the direction — Totaranui start, Wainui finish
Offer door-to-door transfers from Tākaka, Pohara, Collingwood & surrounds
Book your Golden Bay taxi/shuttle early in peak season to secure your preferred time.
Perfect for independent hikers, couples, families and groups.
📞 Message us to arrange your ride: 0274714453
📍 Track Details
Start: Wainui Bay, Golden Bay
Finish: Wharawharangi Hut (or continue to Totaranui)
Distance: ~7 km one way to hut / ~12 km through to Totaranui
Time: 2.5–3.5 hours / 4–6 hours for full section
Track type: DOC walking track
Facilities: DOC hut, toilet, tank water (boil/treat)
Good for: Day walkers & overnight trampers
Book the hut ahead via DOC if staying overnight
Bring plenty of water & snacks
Good footwear recommended
Keep food secured — the cheeky weka birds will steal your lunch 😅
Start early if walking through to Totaranui, especially in summer
🌟 Why Walk Whariwharangi?
It’s got everything we love about Golden Bay tramping:
✔ Forest, ridgelines, and coastal views
✔ Unique hut with history
✔ Quiet & less crowded than southern Abel Tasman
✔ Optional through-walk with easy shuttle services
A genuine kiwi hiking experience at the top of the park.
💛 Planning Your Golden Bay Adventure?
Stay with Golden Bay Escapes your Golden Bay holiday home hosts and explore all the must-do walks, beaches and local gems right on your doorstep.
