Things To Do
in Nelson
Nelson, located on the South Island of New Zealand, is known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant arts scene. The region is surrounded by picturesque mountains, golden beaches, and lush forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town itself is charming, with a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of cafes, boutiques, and galleries to explore.
Nelson also boasts a thriving food and wine scene, showcasing the region's fresh produce and award-winning wines.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "Tēnā koe" - Thank you
- "Māori ora" - Be well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Nelson Market, where you can enjoy local crafts and fresh produce. Grab a coffee and a pastry to fuel your morning stroll through the vibrant stalls.
Spend the afternoon at the Tahunanui Beach, basking in the sun or swimming in the clear waters. You can also take a walk along the beach promenade and enjoy the stunning views.
Dine at one of Nelson's waterfront restaurants and savor fresh seafood. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the beach to end your day.
Start your day with cycling along the Great Taste Trail, which offers beautiful views of vineyards and the coast. Stop for a coffee at a local vineyard along the way.
Continue cycling or take a kayak tour in the Abel Tasman National Park, exploring its golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. Keep an eye out for seals and other wildlife.
Return to Nelson and enjoy a picnic dinner at the Centre of New Zealand lookout point. Take in the breathtaking 360-degree views as the sun sets.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful scenery with stunning beaches and mountains.
- Mild climate with plenty of sunshine.
- Vibrant arts and culture scene with numerous festivals.
- Access to outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Relatively small city with limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Higher cost of living compared to other regions in New Zealand.
- Limited access to some services and amenities compared to larger cities.
- Can be tourist-heavy during peak seasons, leading to overcrowding.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
Best Activities in Nelson
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore stunning golden beaches, clear waters, and lush native forests through hiking, kayaking, camping, or boat tours.
Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and bird watching amid beautiful alpine landscapes, tranquil lakes, and dense forest.
Experience the natural beauty of rugged coastline, rock formations, and sand dunes while walking, surfing, or seal-watching.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nelson with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nelson
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Nelson and Tasman Bay
Beautiful gardens with a variety of flora and fauna, providing great photo opportunities
Scenic location with views of the coastline and surrounding area
Stunning beach with views of the ocean and nearby mountains
Food in Nelson
Nelson Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Nelson is famous for its delectable green-lipped mussels, served in various styles ranging from classic steamed with garlic and white wine to innovative preparations in local restaurants and seafood eateries.
Must-Try!
Nelson's proximity to the town of Blenheim means an abundance of succulent Blenheim apricots, which are ideal for sampling in their fresh state or as ingredients in desserts, jams, and preserves.
A Nelson specialty, Pic's Peanut Butter, is a local favorite, offering a range of flavors and creamy textures that can be found at various specialty stores, supermarkets, and farmer's markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nelson better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Saturday, the Nelson Market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats, where visitors can enjoy an array of international street food from diverse cuisines.
This Sunday market is a great place to sample local food, including delicacies like Maori fry bread, artisan cheeses, gourmet sausages, and organic produce sourced directly from nearby farms.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Nelson, New Zealand has a significant Maori population, and it's important to show respect for Maori customs, traditions, and cultural practices. Visitors should familiarize themselves with Maori etiquette and protocols, and show reverence for sacred sites and cultural artifacts.
Nelson is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and it's crucial to observe environmentally-friendly behaviors. Visitors should minimize their environmental impact, support local conservation efforts, and adhere to responsible tourism practices to protect the region's fragile ecosystems.
In Nelson, it's appreciated to display courteous and friendly behavior. Greeting people with a smile, using polite language, and demonstrating consideration for others' personal space are important aspects of social etiquette in this region.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nelson with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nelson
Ensure a smooth experience
In Nelson, New Zealand, tipping is not customary and is generally not expected in restaurants, bars, or other service establishments. However, if you receive exceptional service and wish to leave a tip, it is usually appreciated but not required.
Payment in Nelson, New Zealand is usually made using New Zealand dollars (NZD). Most businesses accept major credit and debit cards, and contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming increasingly popular. It's also common to find ATMs for cash withdrawals in the city center and major commercial areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nelson.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer is the peak tourist season in Nelson, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's the best time for outdoor activities such as hiking, beach outings, and water sports. Many events and festivals also take place during this time.
Autumn brings mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, making it a great time for nature walks and winery tours. The tourist crowds start to dissipate, providing a more relaxed atmosphere.
Winter in Nelson is relatively mild, with occasional frosts and some rainfall. It's a quieter time for tourism, but visitors can still enjoy indoor attractions, local cuisine, and nearby skiing in the alpine areas.
Spring marks the return of warmer weather and blooming flowers. It's an ideal time for outdoor adventures, including cycling, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The region comes alive with colorful blossoms and rejuvenated landscapes.
Nelson at Night
Hiking in Nelson
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning coastal national park with a variety of hiking trails, golden beaches, and native forest. The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a prominent multi-day hike offering breathtaking views.
Located in the Kahurangi National Park, Mount Arthur offers high-altitude hikes with panoramic views of the surrounding areas, including a challenging day hike to the summit.
A local favorite, this track provides a moderately challenging hike with scenic views over Nelson, the Tasman Bay, and towards the Able Tasman coastline.
A beautiful coastal walk that showcases stunning seascapes and local wildlife, suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
An easy hike leading to a scenic viewpoint that marks the geographical center of New Zealand, with sculptures and park facilities.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nelson through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nelson by plane.
Auckland Airport is the largest and busiest international airport in New Zealand, located approximately 650 kilometers north of Nelson.
Wellington Airport serves the capital city of New Zealand and is located about 110 kilometers south of Nelson, offering international flights.
Christchurch Airport is the second busiest airport in New Zealand, situated around 300 kilometers south of Nelson, providing various international services.
Queenstown Airport is located approximately 500 kilometers southwest of Nelson and serves as a key gateway for international travelers visiting the popular tourist destination.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Nelson, primarily of European descent.
The indigenous people of New Zealand, making up a significant portion of the population.
Includes various groups such as Chinese, Indian, and other Asian communities.
Includes people from the Pacific Islands, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Nelson.
A diverse group that encompasses various other ethnic backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is one of the most popular sports in Nelson, with a strong local culture supporting both rugby union and rugby league. The region hosts various clubs and competitions for players of all ages.
Cricket enjoys strong interest in Nelson, with various local clubs and representative teams. The cricket season typically runs from September to March.
Netball is widely played in Nelson, with numerous teams and leagues for different age groups and skill levels. The sport is particularly popular among women and girls.
Basketball has been gaining popularity in Nelson, with clubs and schools participating in competitions. The sport attracts a diverse group of participants across different age ranges.
Football has a growing following in Nelson, with clubs catering to various skill levels. The local leagues and youth programs contribute to the sport's development.
Mountain biking is immensely popular in Nelson due to the region's picturesque landscapes and dedicated trails. It attracts both casual riders and competitive athletes.
Tennis is a popular sport in Nelson, with several clubs and facilities available for players of all ages. Local tournaments and coaching programs foster community engagement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nelson.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Nelson boasts a wide variety of restaurants and cafes catering to vegetarian and vegan preferences, offering innovative plant-based dishes and ensuring there are ample choices for those with these dietary restrictions.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find an abundance of gluten-free options throughout Nelson, from dedicated gluten-free bakeries to eateries with clearly labeled menus and staff knowledgeable about accommodating gluten-free requirements.