Warm, sunny days and golden sand beaches make Nelson one of the most attractive cities to visit in New Zealand. Framed by 3 national parks and a sheltered bay, Nelson City is a delightful mix of old world charm and contemporary artworks. Scattered throughout the region are galleries, swanky cafes, historic buildings and a cluster of top wineries. Each of the 3 National parks has its own distinct character. Kahurangi is wild, and covered in solid rock, Nelson Lakes is serene, still and full of native wildlife, Able Tasman is small, sea fringed and encompassed by golden sand. They are a great place to spend some time on a walk, tramp or sea kayak. Able Tasman has a variety of huts, camping grounds and lodges for accommodation along the way. Kahurangi is home to the Heaphy track and was also the backdrop for the Lord of the Rings movies and the Nelson Lakes National park will take you back to the way New Zealand used to be 500 years ago.
The road trip over to Golden Bay in Able Tasman National Park is an experience in its self. Discover Te Waikoropupu Springs, New Zealand’s largest freshwater springs. Take a guided 4wd safari to the light house at Farewell Spit and marvel at the bird life or walk along the wild and beautiful Wharariki Beach, famous for windswept rock and sand formations. Get out on the azure waters of Abel Tasman National Park and explore the bays on a charter yacht. Sail past the resident seals basking on the rocks or find a secluded beach for a private picnic.
Nelson City has enough activities to keep you amused for a day or two. Visit the World of Wearable Art & Collectable Cars Museum, for a theatrical and memorable experience. For an insight into the people and places who have shaped the Nelson district stroll through The Regional Art Gallery and Nelson Provincial Museum. Watch the glassblowing at Hogland Art Glass and wander about in the 7 acres of tranquil grounds that surround it. Enjoy the colourful Saturday Market as you mix and mingle with the artists and crafts people from Nelson and surrounds. Take a tour through Mac’s Brewery and find out all about the natural brewing process of one of New Zealand’s most popular beers. Stop in at Mapua and indulge in a meal of the freshest smoked seafood you can imagine. If you want a bit of action, try horse riding either through the ranges or on the beach. Tandem Paraglide adventures will give you a bird’s eye view of the panoramic views below. Pamper yourself and put your foot on the brake at one of the many health retreats in the region for a bit of rest and relaxation.
Accommodation in Nelson covers a wide range of options from motels on the seafront to luxury lodges. Just out of Nelson you will find quaint farm stays, bed and breakfasts and self contained cottages. The restaurants specialise in local seafood and Nelson’s enviable lifestyle is reflected in the choice of eating options all within the town centre. For fine dining and wine head for Tahunanui Beach at Mapua Wharf or one of the gorgeous wineries between Blenheim and Nelson. Take in a tasting of Savignon Blanc, Chardonnay or Pinot Noir at one of the cellar doors.
Nestled away in the northwest corner of the South Island, Nelson’s vibrant and colourful culture combines with a natural outdoor playground which is hard to resist. A warm, sunny climate, access to good beaches , wineries and activities makes it one of the top areas in the country to visit.
