Nelson Tasman

Nelson Tasman is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, with diverse geography capturing everything from long golden beaches to untouched forests and rugged mountains.

Perhaps it’s the sun, perhaps it’s the location, but Nelson Tasman has long been a magnet for creative people. With one of the largest numbers of working artists and galleries in the country, you’ll find an array of craftspeople living in the region; traditional, contemporary and Māori. Visit their studios, explore the weekend craft markets, taste the delicious locally made artisan products and find something extraordinary to take home with you.

Walk the sun-drenched sands of Golden Bay or head inland to Tākaka and see the impossibly clear waters of New Zealand’s largest freshwater springs. Walk the three-to-five day Abel Tasman track or, for a different view, take a sea kayaking tour around the coast and see a seal colony and little blue penguins bobbing in the water. 

Taste your way around the region by bicycle on Tasman’s Great Taste Trail or get your daily dose of adrenaline with a visit to one of the region’s world-class mountain bike parks. Or just relax... Sit in the sun, sip a wine from one of the local vineyards, and dine on the famous Nelson Bay scallops.

Beyond its landscapes and laid-back lifestyle, Nelson Tasman also comes alive with a vibrant calendar of events. The annual Nelson Arts Festival(opens in new window) brings the region’s creative spirit to the forefront, with a diverse programme of theatre, music, dance and visual arts set against the city’s sunny backdrop. For those seeking something more energetic, The Spectacle Running Event(opens in new window) offers an unforgettable way to explore the landscape on foot, with scenic trail runs that wind through coastal tracks, native bush and panoramic viewpoints.

Accommodation options in Nelson Tasman range from basic backpacker lodges to luxury spa retreats, and everything in between.