Tours
Exclusive to Hop 'n Grape Tours they will take you beyond the cellar door and into the winery cellar! You'll swill the best - spit the rest and, have a good ol' time seeing the Marlborough sights.
If wine is not your thing, you can visit a local brewery where you'll find cold beer or if you have a sweet tooth, visit a Chocolate factory. You'll have a cracker day which is relaxed, informative and unforgettable.
Due to New Zealand's terrain, some of the best places are out of reach for most people. One of the best ways to see the picturesque scenery is by helicopter!
Not only do Tasman Helicopter's provide tours, they can provide drop-offs for acitivies like hiking, fishing, hunting and heli-skiing/boarding.
Places to see
The World of Wearable Art & Classic Cars Museum is a museum devoted to wearable art and classic cars located in Nelson, you may have heard of the Wellington WOW shows, now you can see the art up close and personal.
Museum Galleries are open every day 10am – 5pm, cafe is open 9.30am – 4pm daily. Most people spend 60-90 mins to view the galleries.
Christ Church Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral in upper Trafalgar Street, built in 1851 on a different site then constructed again in 1925.
The majority of marble was sourced from the Pakikiruna Range, near Takaka. When construction started the marble was to be used in blocks. However, after the Murchison earthquake this was deemed too risky and far too expensive. The marble was then ground down and mixed with plaster to give the unusual appearance and colour.
Founders Heritage Park is a mueseum open seven days a week, 10am - 4.30pm with a wide range of displays including; craft beer history, train rides and the old fire brigade.
Great place for families with plenty to see and do at a very affordable price (price packages available for families).
Walks
The Centre of New Zealand on Botanical Hill is one of Nelson's most popular walks, starting at the Botanical Reserve all the way to Maitai.
The walk will take 20-60 minutes, depending on your age, speed and fitness. The main track is suitable for sturdier push chairs and buggies. At the top take a seat, enjoy the stunning view and pick out the features of Nelson's geography from the information panels
Built in the 1860's with many restored in the 1970's, these cottages showcase the colonial times workers in the area used to live.
This is New Zealand's oldest preserved street and within walking distance of Century Park Motel and worth the visit.
Shopping
The Nelson market is located in the town centre where locals come to sell arts, crafts and produce. You can also experience great food and more.
Every Saturday from 8am to 1pm you can visit the market, if you miss it on Saturday you can go to Monty's market on on Sunday from 8am to 1pm.
Museums and Art
Hoglund's gallery contains beautifully handcrafted glass sculptures such as fruit bowl, vases and jewellery. Making it a great place to get your gifts as they are unique to Nelson!
The glassblowing schedule always changes, they operate 5 days a week from 10am to 5pm. Call +64 (0)3 544 6500 for confirmation of times.
Suter Art Mueseum is one of Nelson's hidden gems! Free admission and open 9:30am - 4:30pm every day with diverse art exhibitions, a shop & a busy cafe serving coffee & gourmet food.
Located overlooking the Queens Gardens and pond, enjoy indoor our outdoor seating while you have a coffee and something to eat.
Adventures
Are you seeking an adventure? At Happy Valley you can go quad biking, paintballing, horse trekking, ride the amphibious argo or fly the world's longest flying fox.
It's located just north of Nelson below Cable bay, your adventures will also reveal some of New Zealand's best scenery.
Stonehurst is a picturesque family farm, situated just a 20 minute drive from Nelson and 8 minutes from Richmond. An award winning horse trekking operation, riding school and equestrian centre were developed at the farm.
Call in advance for horse trekking availability +64 3 542 3823.
Beaches
Nelson's most popular beach located close to the city with many great places to eat and drink nearby.
The beach is excellent for swimming, running or walking. It is also a paradise for stand-up paddle boarders, wind surfers, kite surfers, dog walkers and general sun seekers.
With a short 20 minute drive from Nelson you will find Rabbit Island, a small island loved by locals for recreational activities such as swimming, picnics and enjoying the sun.
There are BBQ's there for your use but you need to bring your own equipment and food with you as there is nothing to buy on the island itself, ideal for families.
Relaxation
About Beauty is Nelson's top rated beauty salon covering everything from waxing, tanning and facials to massaging and make-up. They stock a wide range of beauty products for skincare and makeup.
Check out their specials for package deals and discounts.
Places to eat
