Caring for Abel Tasman, for generations to come

Since our family first arrived in Nelson in 1841, our connection to this region has shaped how we think about land, community and responsibility.

Over time, we’ve seen a shift — from early settlement and land use to the protection of what is now Abel Tasman National Park. Today, sustainability means more than simply reducing impact — it’s about actively caring for this place and contributing to its future.

In line with the Nelson Tasman region’s goal of becoming carbon zero by 2050, we are focused on reducing our footprint first, before offsetting what remains.

Protecting what makes this place special

Our journey began when John and Lynette Wilson launched the first scheduled boat service into the park in 1977.

Since then, we’ve worked closely with partners, community groups and conservation organisations to help protect and enhance the park, including:

  • Founding members of the Abel Tasman Birdsong Trust (2007), a volunteer organisation established with other tourism operators, Department of Conservation and Project Janszoon. Together, we are protecting and enhancing the biodiversity of the region with the aim of increasing the sounds of birdsong in the park.

  • Advocacy for the Abel Tasman Foreshore Scenic Reserve, limiting boat landings to protect sensitive areas

  • Early members of the Nelson Tasman Sustainable Tourism Charter (2005)

  • Achieving Qualmark Enviro Gold — the first in the park (2013)

  • In 2022, we initiated talks with Department of Conservation and other industry partners to separate the Environmental Access Fee (EAF) from the cost of each ticket to remind visitors how they are contributing to preservation of the national park. Part of the EAF contributes to carbon offset credits.

Sustainability by design

Sustainability is built into how we operate every day — from how we transport guests to how our lodges function within the park.

Our team — including guides, lodge staff and skippers — are trained to understand their impact and share this knowledge with guests, helping create a deeper connection to the environment.

Smarter transport on land & water

Water Transport

  • Our catamaran Abel Tasman Voyager improves efficiency and reduces fuel use per passenger, compared with water taxis

  • Timetables are designed to minimise congestion and pressure on popular locations

  • We coordinate with other operators to reduce unnecessary boat movements 

On land

  • From 2006, we have worked with local and national governments to establish the Nelson Tasman Great Taste Cycle Trail, encouraging low emission travel 

  • Founding partner of the Better Bus service, reducing reliance on private vehicles

Eco-friendly beachfront lodges

Our lodges at Torrent Bay and Awaroa are designed and operated to minimise the impacts on both the natural and social environment of the park:

  • Built from sustainable and locally sourced materials

  • Solar-powered systems with minimal diesel backup. Read more about our Hybrid Power and Water System and how we have reduced use of diesel by 100% on fine days

  • Water-saving systems, as well as bioactive, self-contained sewerage and wastewater processing

  • All rubbish removed from the park to community recycling and refuse stations

  • Organic and biodegradable cleaning systems

  • Local, organic, seasonal food sourced wherever possible

  • Reduced packaging through reusable containers and minimal plastic

  • Carefully selected suppliers

Community and cultural heritage

Caring for Abel Tasman also means supporting the people and stories connected to it.

We are committed to:

  • Supporting local suppliers and businesses

  • Employing and developing local people

  • Contributing to community groups and initiatives

  • Supporting schools, charities and local organisations

  • Sharing and preserving the history of Awaroa through Meadowbank Homestead and Awaroa Legacy

Our commitment

We believe it’s our responsibility to use resources thoughtfully, protect the environment, and create experiences that respect both the land and the people connected to it.

It’s vital to our business that we use all our resources as thoughtfully as possible so we can share the national park without comprising visitors’ enjoyment, our values and our environment. – Darryl Wilson, CEO