The Free House is one of New Zealand's top craft beer pubs.

Date night in Nelson

The Free House, Nelson

Plan the perfect date in and around Nelson

Whatever date night looks like for you - dining alfresco, chasing the sunsets, taking a stroll along the beach, or dancing the night away, you'll find what you're looking for here.

Dining at Jellyfish in Mapua Web Res taken by Oliver Weber credit www.nelsontasman.nz

Dine by the water's edge

Plan the perfect dining experience with your loved one. Picture yourself savouring delicious dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients while enjoying a rose gold sunset with a glass of wine.

Our top picks:

The Jellyfish

Located on the water's edge at Māpua Wharf, The Jellyfish boasts a large north-facing deck that offers uninterrupted views of the water and surrounding wharf landscape.

Gold Partner

Located on the second floor of Rutherford Hotel Nelson, Oceano Restaurant offers panoramic views for an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy our full buffet breakfast soaking in the morning sun or unwind in the evening with a diverse selection of wines, gins, whisky, and German beer as the sun sets.

Gold Partner

Tides Bar & Eatery

Set along the banks of the Maitai River, Tides Bar & Eatery is open all day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, available from 6.45 am to 8.30 pm daily.

Gold Partner

Boat Shed Café

Situated on the iconic Nelson waterfront, our restaurant revolves around a seasonally driven menu that celebrates exceptional New Zealand produce every day.

The Styx

The Styx is a place to get away from it all. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax next to the ocean. We’ll keep your glass filled with local libations and your soul happy with fresh food made with love.

Walking to Water With Paddleboards at Tahunanui Beach

Sunset walks on the beach

Catch a stunning sunset at one of our stunning beaches. Pack a picnic and a blanket, and enjoy the serene views together.

Our top picks:

Cable Bay

Rotokura (Cable Bay) is a hidden gem in the Nelson Tasman region, only a 20-minute drive from Nelson City. It's so close to town that you feel like you’ve escaped it all and discovered a slice of beautiful nature in rural New Zealand.

Glenduan Beach

Glenduan is often referred to as ‘The Glen’ by locals and is a rocky pebble beach connecting the northern end of the Boulder Bank with Mackay Bluff down the coast toward Cable Bay.