Nelson
Discover the creative paradise that is Nelson – an irresistible blend of lifestyle and stunning landscape at the top northwest corner of the South Island. From the northern edge of the Southern Alps across the plains and out to a great sweep of beaches, the city is beautifully laid out under a generous sun that delivers New Zealand’s highest sunshine hours. Discover the diverse landscapes in each of these areas.
The Nelson region offers enormous diversity both in the landscape – from snow capped mountains to rolling vineyards to golden beaches, and in activities – from outdoor adventure to learning Maori weaving to visiting local markets.
The compact geography means most activities are within 1-2 hours drive of the city. The climate is mild regardless the season.
The city of Nelson is close to the center of New Zealand. It lies at the shore of Tasman Bay, at the northern end of the South Island and is the administrative center of the Nelson region.
A bit of Nelson history.
Māori occupation dates back some 800 years, while European settlement occurred in 1842. Six Iwi groups claim ancestral occupation rights, or rights of conquest over areas in this region.
Nelson received its name in honor of the Admiral Horatio Nelson who was the hero at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Many of the roads and public areas around the city are named after people and ships associated with that battle and Trafalgar Street is the main shopping axis of the city. Inhabitants of Nelson are referred to as Nelsonians.
Nelson gained a reputation in the 1970’s as the counter-culture center of New Zealand and today is a center for arts and crafts, each year hosting popular events such as the Nelson Arts Festival. The annual Wearable Art Awards began near Nelson and a museum, World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum is now housed close to Nelson Airport showcasing winning designs.
The Nelson economy is based on the ‘big four’ industries; seafood, horticulture, tourism and forestry with Port Nelson being the biggest fishing port in Australasia. There are also a range of growth industries, including art and craft, aviation, engineering technology, and information technology.
Some Not to be Missed activities:
Art and workshop pass
Meet artists, visit their workshops and participate in creating your own art! Learn glass bead making or ceramics! A highly memorable experience is assured when interactive fun is at your fingertips.
World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum
The WOW® phenomenon is now an internationally celebrated event. Amazing wearable works of art are on display in Nelson at the World of WearableArt™ and Classic Cars Museum. The combination of incredible garments with classic cars in one museum is a unique experience.
Nelson is in the forefront of the slow food movement: indigenous flavors, sun-kissed fruit, farm-fresh vegetables and succulent seafood provide endless gastronomic inspiration, accompanied by high quality wines.
Taste the Region
Fresh ingredients are transformed into mouthwatering fare you can enjoy in an environment of unsurpassed beauty. Dine among the vines, along the waterfront with fabulous views, at a country café, or in the cityscape. Seafood is a specialty, from chowder to garlic mussels, so eat, explore, enjoy! Haute cuisine to Kiwi fish ‘n’ chips
Abel Tasman National Park
The National Park is NZ’s smallest is but one of its’ most striking and is famous for its golden beaches stretching from Marahau, near Motueka, to Wainui Bay, in Golden Bay.
There are two walking tracks; the beautiful coastal track, and the inland track through the hilly center of the park. Bring your own supplies and hiking gear. Near Marahau, and a short drive from Motueka, is Kaiteriteri Beach a favorite holiday spot for Abel Tasman accommodation, restaurants, camping, playgrounds and golden sands.
There are four main gateways to the park. Marahau and Kaiteriteri are at the southern end, reached by road from Motueka. The two northern entrances are at Totaranui and Wainui, reached by road from Takaka in Golden Bay. Regular and on-demand bus services provide access to both points. Commercial boat operators offer day excursions, drop-off and pick-up for walkers at various points throughout the park.
Sea-kayaking operators based at Nelson, Marahau, Kaiteriteri and Golden Bay offer guided trips and freedom rentals, plus gear and safety advice. Enjoy the sounds of the native bush on the inland route or watch seals on the beach along the coast. Paddle a traditional Māori waka (carved canoe), skydive or speed through the waves on a water taxi.
Music lovers may attend the biennial Nelson School of Music Winter Music Festival, the Adam NZ Festival of Chamber Music and the annual Jazz Festival.
