Nelson
The Sweet Life
Nelson’s sunshine and landscape have drawn people from all over the world who value the good things in life and look for authentic cultural experiences. Bring an appetite for exquisite tastes – succulent seafood, sublime Nelson wines, boutique beers, olive oils, fresh greens – are served in cafes and restaurants in stunning locations!
Bring a hunger for outdoor adventure too- get wet and wild – sailing, diving, kayaking and boating. Explore the landscape by bike, horseback, four wheel drive or take a tranquil wander.
Satisfy your longing for faraway places from Farewell Spit to Abel Tasman National Park in Golden Bay with its coastline of turquoise waters and golden-sand beaches to Kahurangi and Nelson Lakes National Parks with rugged mountains and native plant and bird-life. Be inspired by the creative, international spectacle that is the World of WearableArt, see art in its own place, visit artist galleries in beautiful locations throughout the region.
A good life is made up of fine moments – here there are – boundless opportunities to enrich and enjoy!
Nelson & Richmond
Sunshine, art, wine and adventure make Nelson a lifestyle mecca with year round holiday ambience. Sip a latte at a street café, enjoy fine dining, soak up the atmosphere at the Nelson markets, explore artist galleries or visit Richmond – the pulse of Tasman, for shopping and dining, nearby picnic spots and rivers.
Mapua, Motueka, Moutere
The Coastal Highway follows the coastline from Richmond to Motueka, past apple orchards, berries, vineyards, hops, olives and out to Tasman Bay. The historic Mapua has a charming village atmosphere with cafés, galleries and activities on the estuary. The inland route through Moutere rewards with vineyards, rustic farmhouses and rolling farmland.
Abel Tasman National Park
New Zealand’s smallest and most popular national park and it takes just 3-5 days to walk the full length of the Abel Tasman Coastal Track.. to enjoy the golden sand beaches and turquoise waters.
Golden Bay
Journey over the Takaka Hill to lush farmland and sweeping coastline. Golden Bay is rich in history and nature experiences including the internationally renowned Farewell Spit. Explore the ‘artistic’ township of Takaka,and Collingwood – a seaside township with relics of the goldrush days.
Nelson Lakes and Murchison
St Arnaud is an alpine village on the shores of Lake Rotoiti, gateway to Nelson Lakes National Park. The township is nestled in beech forest with native bird life, and is the southern gateway to Kahurangi National Park. Murchison is the home of wild-water adventures and the some of the best trout fishing in the world.
Key facts
The Nelson region is rich in history with a colourful past and a vibrant and positive future. Take a moment to expand your knowledge of our fascinating region.
Did you know..
| • | Nelson is New Zealand’s second oldest city, settled in 1841 |
| • | Home to NZ’s oldest state secondary school, Nelson College, est. in 1856 |
| • | Nelson city rates consistently as New Zealand’s sunniest spot with over 2,500 sunshine hours per year |
| • | Home to 22 wineries which benefit from the mild Mediterranean climate |
| • | Nelson city is the 10th most populous city and geographical centre of New Zealand |
| • | Nelson Provincial Government was established. |
| • | Six Iwi (Maori tribal groups) claim ancestral occupation rights, or rights of conquest over areas in the Nelson Region. These Iwi are Ngati Rarua, Ngati Tama, Te Atiawa, Ngati Koata, Ngati Kuia and Ngati Toa |
| • | Unique with three spectacular national parks all within 90 minutes drive of each other |
| • | Where you will find two of New Zealand’s Great Walks – Abel Tasman Coastal Track and Heaphy Track ..activities |
Pleasures and Passions – How would you like to spend the day?
Whatever your passion or pleasure, you can do it in Nelson. The Nelson region offers a host of activities. Those serious about relaxing will find Nelson a haven, while those looking for adventure will be spoilt for choice. The beautiful climate, wonderful natural surroundings and diverse locals give Nelson its very own distinct culture.
