Nelson is one of the most attractive regions in New Zealand. You will get plenty of recreational opportunities here. For a relaxing day, you can simply head out to any of its stunning beaches and indulge in a soothing sun bath. Take a boat or ferry ride to one of its remote corners and explore the charming islands and beaches. If you want both fun and adventure, visit the Nelson Lakes National Park for an exciting experience. Here, you will come across stunning surroundings of rolling hills and serene lakes while hiking. Abel Tasman National Park in Nelson is another fascinating place to be in.
The attraction list is endless. However, there are some special things to do and see in Nelson. For details, do take a look at the highlights below.
This is one of the best sightseeing spot in Nelson. You can visit this place to witness the unique art of glassmaking. In this gallery, you can see a vast collection of bowls, vases, perfume bottles, handblown platters, goblets and jewelry. This attraction is open on all seven days of a week. Visiting hours begin from 10am - 5pm.
Located in the north-west region of Nelson, the Abel Tasman National park is recognized for its turquoise waters, peaceful golden beaches, subtropical clime and splendid inlets. There is a popular walkway in this park called the Abel Tasman track. You can take this way to explore the park’s natural splendor. After this, you can move on to the Golden Bay. This area is famous for its vast sandy stretches.
Located on the northwestern South Island, this park is easily accessible from Nelson’s Takaka and the West Coast’s Karamea regions. The park houses excellent insect species such as cave spiders, snails and Weta. The Heaphy Track and Wangapeka are the two prominent walking trails here. You can browse through some of the best caves of the world in this park. In addition, kayaking and rafting will also be exciting options to explore.
Run by Orana Wildlife Trust, Natureland Zoo houses diverse domestic and exotic wildlife species. Aquarium and aviary are the main highlights of this place. Many families come here for picnics. Visiting hours is 9.30am - 4pm
If you want to know Nelson from close quarters, visiting Nelson Provincial Museum will be a good idea. The museum reflects the historical past of this town and region. Its exhibits include Maori and Wairau affray objects.
Located 2 km from Nelson town center, this park is a fabulous open-air museum. Here, you will come across a large number of Victorian style buildings. Windmill and Nelson Haven exhibition are the park’s additional highlights.
The small Maitai River runs into the Maitai Dam from Bryant Range to finally converge with Maitai Valley. Passing through Nelson town, the river offers tempting fishing opportunities to junior anglers.
This is one of the most popular beaches in Nelson. A paradise for swimmers, joggers, sun bathers, walkers and windsurfers, Tahunanui Beach has something for everyone. It features a skatepark, roller skating rink, Natureland, Lions playground, BMX track, public tennis courts and mini golf. In addition, petanque court, paddle trikes, model railway and bumpa boats feature here. There is a provision for helicopter rides and beach volleyball too.
Located in the southern part of Nelson, Richmond is a small picturesque town and a service outlet for the Waimea Plains’ orchards, vineyards and farms. You can make this town a base to explore several art galleries, river valleys, beaches, wineries and horse treks. From here, you can pay visits to Kahurangi, Nelson Lakes and Abel Tasman with ease. If you want adventure, go to Richmond Ranges for mountain biking and hiking. You can make a trip to Rainbow Valley during winters for skiing. Plenty of shopping and dining opportunities are also available here.
Apart from sightseeing, there are many leisure activities that you can try in Nelson. Food and wine tasting tours are among the major Nelson attractions. For a real gourmet experience, visit Montgomery Square in this town. It is filled with several food stalls. Check out Kahurangi Winery for a real wine tasting experience. Other than this, swimming, hiking and kayaking options are also available. For an exclusive holiday experience, explore the fishing trips here. Many golf courses are found in this town. So, you can go to these sites as well and try hands at this luxury sport. In free time, do indulge in shopping.
