Nelson

One of the sunniest cities in New Zealand, Nelson buzzes with creative energy. Enjoy the local art and discover culinary talent at the restaurants.

Nelson is an entertaining city in many ways. From a cultural point of view, it provides the chance to appreciate New Zealand art, both in galleries and in artists’ studios. The district has attracted creative people who work with glass, metal, stone, wood, clay, sand, paper, ink, paint and fabric.

Nelson is also appealing from a lifestyle point of view. There are wineries scattered around the Moutere Hills and the Waimea Plains. In the city, you’ll find a good selection of restaurants – some with huge views of Tasman Bay. Activities include skydiving, rock climbing, 4WD biking, horse treks, sailing charters and water fun at the excellent beaches. 

Consider these must do acitivities while in Nelson

• Visit the World of WearableArt & Collectable Cars Museum - just ten minutes from the city centre.
• Spend a few hours at the regional art gallery - the Suter Te Aratoi o Whakatu. Be sure to view the gallery's collection of works by Sir Tosswill Woollaston, who was one of the founders of modern art in New Zealand.
• Watch glassblowers create at Höglund Art Glass, set within 7 acres of tranquil gardens.
• Enjoy the colour and fun of Nelson's famous Saturday market. Meet artists and craftspeople from the region.
• Gain an interesting insight into Nelson’s past at the recently opened Nelson Provincial Museum.
• Expand your mind on the Rongoa Maori (natural medicines bush walk). You'll find out about traditional treatments while walking in original native forest.
• Charter a yacht for a morning or several days. Sail to the Abel Tasman National Park.

Functional facts: Approx. population 43,000, i-SITE Visitor Centre, domestic airport.