Kaiteriteri Beach

Kaiteriteri is a small curve of golden granite sand facing east into Tasman Bay, sheltered from the prevailing westerlies by the hills behind - which is why the water here is noticeably warmer and calmer than almost anywhere else on the South Island coast, and why the settlement is essentially a summer resort. It is also the main departure point for Abel Tasman: water taxis, catamarans and kayak operators run from the beach, so a large share of everyone visiting the national park passes through. Behind the town is the Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park, about sixty kilometres of purpose-built trail from beginner to advanced. Little Kaiteriteri, a five-minute walk over the hill, is smaller and usually quieter. In January the place is full and accommodation is booked months out; by late March it is calm again and the water is still warm.

What you actually see

• The golden sand - granite-derived, warm sheltered water.
• The boat departures - water taxis and kayaks into Abel Tasman.
• The bike park - about sixty kilometres of trail behind the town.
• Little Kaiteriteri - the quieter beach over the hill.

When to go

December to March; February and March keep the warm water without the January crush. Book boats and accommodation well ahead for the peak weeks.

Honest expectations

In January it is genuinely crowded and expensive. Parking is limited and paid in season. The beach is unpatrolled. It is a resort settlement, not a wild coast - that is either the appeal or the problem.

Nearby

Split Apple Rock is three kilometres north; Marahau and the Abel Tasman track start are beyond it.