The Destination
At the top of the South Island, you’ll discover a place that has something for everyone. Whether you are here for adventure, the outdoors, exploring the stunning natural landscapes – it’s all on offer. Relax on the best beaches in New Zealand, or discover the culture and arts scene for which Nelson is famous. Soak up the best food and wine – Nelson has it all, within a stone’s throw from our doorstep.
The adventures
With three National Parks at the top of the South Island, there are plenty of walks, mountain bike tracks, and stunning sights to see.
The popular Abel Tasman National Park entices visitors with its clear, sheltered coastline, turquoise waters, and Tonga Island Marine Reserve.
The diverse landscape of the huge Kahurangi National Park, to the west of the region, offers remote adventure in an unspoiled environment, including one of New Zealand’s ‘Great Walks’, the Heaphy Track.
Nelson Lakes National Park to the south offers an alpine landscape with majestic mountains and lakeside walks. It is home to the famous Rotomairewhenua / Blue Lake, a small lake in the northern reaches of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Sacred to local Māori, it has the clearest natural fresh water in the world.
All three parks are within a 90-minute drive from Nelson City, alternatively, you can opt for a scenic helicopter flight and view the amazing landscape from the air.
The beaches
Nelson Tasman is one of the few places in New Zealand where you’ll find good temperatures all year round for water-based activities. The sea here is, of course, warmer in summer, but calmer and more predictable during winter, autumn, and spring. From Cable Bay to Tahunanui Beach, to Kaiteriteri Beach, and over the Takaka Hill to Golden Bay, there are plenty of options if you love to be on or near the water.
The food & wine
Benefiting from a sunny, maritime climate, the picturesque valley vineyards of Nelson Tasman yield some of New Zealand’s most freshly scented, intensely flavoured sauvignon blanc, chardonnay and pinot noir. Winery tours and cellar door experiences are a great way to savour the extraordinary wines created from both the rolling hills and the picturesque plains of the region.
Award-winning restaurants and cafes are dotted around the region, many of which love showcasing seasonal, regional produce on their menus. Offering everything from fine dining on the waterfront, to traditional Kiwi style comfort food in the heart of the city. Nelson Tasman is the perfect destination for foodie lovers, all year round.
Credit: www.nelsontasman.nz
The culture
Nelson is well known for its ground-breaking artists and artisans that thrive amongst our community. The weekend community markets in both Nelson and Motueka showcase their wonderful talents. Follow the art trails to visit local artists in their studios throughout the Nelson-Tasman region.
Some things to do
Explore the Abel Tasman by Catamaran
Beachs, Bays and Seals Kayak
Full Day Sailing Adventure
Wine, Beer or Art Trail Tour
Relaxing Golfing Getaway
Explore Nelson by Helicopter
Guided Fishing for Trophy Trout
Guided Mountain Biking
Hiking and Exploring
Out of the ordinary cycle tours
Quad Bike Tours
