Nelson New Zealand Travel Guide- 10 BEST Things to Do in Nelson NZ

Here are the best things to do in Nelson, New Zealand. Number 10. Visit Nelson Lakes National Park. First up is Nelson Lakes National Park, a nature lover's paradise that's just a stone's throw away from the town. This park is located in the northernmost section of the Southern Alps and is home to a whopping 16 glacial lakes, including the famous Lake Rotoiti. Imagine yourself exploring dense beach forests, listening to the melodic calls of tuis and And if you're feeling adventurous, there are a variety of hiking trails to choose from, from easy lakeside walks to more challenging alpine treks. Number 9. Explore the world famous Abel Tasman National Park. Next up is the world famous Abel Tasman National Park, the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Nelson. This natural paradise boasts pristine beaches, a granite coastline, lush native bush, and sparkling bays. You can choose from a variety of activities, such as hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, and wildlife cruises to spot fur seals, dolphins, and little blue penguins. The park's most famous hike is the 37-mile Abel Tasman Coastal Trek, which takes about five days from end to end. But you can also hike part of the trail. The park has various types of accommodations, including camping, huts, luxurious lodges, and beach glamping. Number 8. Walk to the center of New Zealand. Here's a fun one. The geographical center of New Zealand is located in the beautiful hills of Nelson. Although the exact center of the country is not marked by a giant white survey pin on Botanical Hill, it was the starting point for trigonometrical surveys done in the 1870s by Nelson's chief surveyor, John Spence Browning. The hilltop is a lovely spot for a walk, offering stunning views over Nelson, the Kahurangi Mountains, and Tasman Bay. Number 7. Cycle the Great Taste Trail. Cycling enthusiasts, listen up. The Nelson-Tasman region is a cyclist's paradise with the beautiful and scenic Great Taste Trail as the crown jewel. The trail, which is 108 miles long, is a network of smaller sections perfect for families and weaves through country lanes. Waimea Plains, rolling hills of Muteri, offers spectacular views of Tasman Bay. The section between Stoke and Mapua is a must-do as it ends with a glass of wine at the pier. This trail is not just about the breathtaking views, but also about the delicious local wines, craft breweries, orchards, art galleries, and boutique shops that you can stop by on your way. If off-road adventure is more your style, Nelson-Tasman also has a variety of mountain bike parks to choose from. Number 6. Relax on Tehananui Beach. Next, let's relax on Tehananui Beach. This long and wide gray sand beach is only a short drive or one-hour walk away from the city center. On sunny summer days, the beach is very popular, but there's plenty of space for everyone. The water is shallow and calm and great for swimming, making it perfect for families. The beach is also a great spot for stand-up paddleboarding, stand-up yoga, kayaking, boating, fishing, and even penguin watching. The historic lighthouse, Boulder Bank, and Holoshore Island are also accessible via ferry. There's a playground, ice cream stands, and fun park for children to enjoy. Don't forget to catch the sunset for a spectacular view. By the way, if you want to learn how to save money on airfares, then click the link in the description below. This guide teaches you how to always get the cheapest flights. Number 5. Learn about Nelson's history at Founders Heritage Park. Travel back in time at Founders Heritage Park. This park is a treasure trove of unique attractions, from heritage railway lines operated by the Nelson Railway Society, to a Bristol freighter plane, hop and beer museum, and even a windmill shop. The park's character buildings are set in lush gardens, and there are plenty of historical themed displays to explore. Visitors can also browse the work of local artisans and craftsmen, and even enjoy a bakery on site. With so much to see and do, Founders Heritage Park is a great destination for families and history enthusiasts alike. Number 4. Taste your way through Nelson's wine region. Nelson is known for its quiet wine scene, where you can sample high quality Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and aromatic varieties all year round. The region's modern wine industry began to flourish in the 1970s, but it all started with German settlers planting the first vines in the 1800s. Take a tour of Nelson's 28 cellar doors, and choose from a variety of stunning natural landscapes, from the picturesque Waimea Plains, to the rolling Mutiri Hills. Take a leisurely vineyard lunch, or a bike tour through the orchards. Either way, your taste buds will thank you. Number 3. See native birds at the Brook Waimatama Sanctuary. Nature lovers, get ready for an adventure. The Brook Waimatama Sanctuary is a hidden gem located only 6 kilometers from the city center, but it feels like a whole different world. The sanctuary is the largest fenced reserve for endangered plants and creatures in the South Island, and visitors can enjoy the bird song of native birds, like bellbirds, fantails, kiwi, blue duck, and New Zealand robins. It's a great way to experience New Zealand's native bush and indigenous species, while also supporting organizations that are trying to reverse the problems caused by invasive species. Number 2. Take a trip to Golden Bay. If you're looking for more natural beauty and adventure, Golden Bay is the place for you. This stunning region offers a wide variety of experiences, from exploring the picturesque beach to taking a guided tour along Farewell Spit, one of the world's longest natural sand splits and home to over 90 species of migratory birds. And let's not forget the awe-inspiring Tiwai Kotopupu Springs, the largest cold water springs in the Southern Hemisphere. And if you're feeling extra adventurous, take a tour of Cape Farewell, the South Island's most northerly point, where you'll get to enjoy stunning views and spot seals basking on the rocks below. It's a 2.5-hour drive from Nelson, so make sure to allocate a few days if you can. Number 1. Follow the craft beer trail. Last but not least, let's follow the craft beer trail. Nelson, New Zealand is a beer lover's paradise, home to 11 craft breweries, and proudly declaring itself as the craft brewing capital of New Zealand. The region's brewing tradition dates back to the 1840s, when German settlers began cultivating hops in Mutiri. The industry continues to thrive, and the growing region is the Rewaka, Tapuera, and Brightwater Triangle. The busiest time for the farms is in autumn when the bitter and fragrant hops are harvested. Many of the breweries are family-owned and welcome visitors to sample their delicious brews. So grab a pint and cheers to an unforgettable adventure in Nelson, New Zealand. Click here for more things to do in New Zealand.