Abel Tasman Coast Track Gear List
The Abel Tasman Coast Track has tidal crossings that decide your timing, and DOC says its huts have no gas cooking facilities or lighting. That means a stove, fuel and a torch, plus insect repellent for sandflies.
Tidal crossings
DOC links tide timetables for July 2026 to October 2027 from the track page.
Awaroa Inlet
Cross from 1 hour 30 minutes before to 2 hours after low tide, in daylight only. DOC says to allow 25 minutes and that there is no alternative track.
Torrent Bay Estuary
Crossable 2 hours either side of low tide. An all-tide track is available.
General rule
DOC says not to cross when it is not low tide, because it is dangerous.
What the huts give you, and what they do not
Cooking and lighting
DOC says the huts do not have gas cooking facilities and lighting, so bring a portable stove, fuel and a torch. Candles are suggested.
Water
DOC says water at huts and campsites is not treated, so boil it before use.
Food and drying
You cannot buy food on the track, emergency food is not provided and clothes cannot be dried in huts.
Food storage
DOC does not provide it. Bring a rodent-proof container or bag.
Campers
Campers cannot use hut facilities, and hammocks are not permitted at campsites.
Sandflies and wasps
Insect repellent
DOC says to carry it for sandflies.
Allergy
Wasps are present, so carry an antihistamine if you are allergic to wasp stings.
Also on DOC's list
Sleeping bag and pack
A 3 to 4 season sleeping bag and a 40 to 60 liter pack with a liner.
Cooking gear
Utensils, a pot or pan, a cleaning kit, a gas cooker and fuel, and matches or a lighter in a waterproof container.
Safety
First aid kit with blister treatment, survival kit, map and compass.
Earplugs and warm sleepwear
DOC says bunkrooms are communal and can be cold.
If camping
A tent, sleeping mat and ground sheet.
Gear questions for the Abel Tasman Coast Track
Do Abel Tasman Coast Track huts have gas cookers?
DOC says the huts do not have gas cooking facilities and lighting. Bring a portable stove, fuel and a torch.
When can you cross Awaroa Inlet on the Abel Tasman Coast Track?
DOC says from 1 hour 30 minutes before to 2 hours after low tide, in daylight only, and to allow about 25 minutes.
Is the water safe to drink on the Abel Tasman Coast Track?
DOC says water at huts and campsites is not treated and should be boiled before use.
Sources
Checked against the agency page above on 30 October 2026. This page names no products, and it lists what the agency says, in our words. Check the agency page for rules that changed since.
In an emergency in New Zealand, call 111.