Nelson

New Zealand, Oceania

Nestled at the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island, Nelson is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant arts scene, and nearby national parks like Abel Tasman. Known as the sunshine capital, it boasts a warm climate, perfect for outdoor adventures such as kayaking and hiking. With a lively farmer's market, unique galleries, and a strong craft beer culture, Nelson offers a blend of relaxation and excitement that attracts nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Nelson

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Nelson

1

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Abel Tasman National Park

Stunning coastal walks and water activities await you here.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Nelson Market

Local crafts and fresh produce every Saturday morning.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike to the Centre of New Zealand

A scenic walk to the geographical center of NZ.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the World of WearableArt Museum

Experience unique fashion and art exhibitions.

No booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Kayak in the Tasman Bay

Paddle through stunning waters and wildlife spotting.

Booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Sample local wines at wineries

Taste award-winning wines in beautiful vineyard settings.

Booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Nelson Provincial Museum

Learn about local history and culture through engaging displays.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Tahunanui Beach

Enjoy sun, sand, and surf at this popular beach.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Suter Art Gallery

Discover contemporary and historical art exhibitions.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Nelson Botanical Gardens

Stroll through beautiful gardens with diverse plant species.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

12 (#1 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Kiwi Pie

Savory pie with meat and vegetables. (National dish)

Hāngi

Traditional Māori dish cooked in earth oven.

Pavlova

V

Meringue dessert topped with fruit and cream.

Fish and Chips

Battered fish served with fries.

Lamingtons

V

Sponge cake coated in chocolate and coconut.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)