Fueled by their passion for coffee, hospitality, and community, Nick and Beth proudly own Victus.
Wondering how to spend the day after a delicious breakfast at Victus? Nick has curated his favourite picks, offering a delightful blend of art, outdoor adventures, and foodie fun—all the things that make Nelson so special.
While these might not include Nelson Tasman's most iconic attractions, they guarantee an authentic taste of Nelson’s vibrant culture. Best of all, you won’t need a car – everything is within easy walking or biking distance.
Head east along Bridge Street to discover the Suter Art Gallery and Queens Gardens—a perfect pairing for exploring Nelson’s rich history through the lens of art and nature. The gallery features historic and modern works, while the gardens blend classic English, early New Zealand, and Chinese styles for a serene escape.
Once the art tanks are topped up, head along Bridge Street to the Maitai River and follow the riverside path for 2km to Black Hole – perfect for a summer dip! The Maitai Valley is a green oasis with activities for all, but my current favourite is Disc Golf at Branford Park’s 18-hole course. It’s family-friendly, and you can rent discs from MD Outdoors.
From Black Hole, continue through Branford Park and up the hill to the Centre of New Zealand. The climb is short but steep, and the views are absolutely worth it. From the top, you’ll enjoy one of the best vantage points over Whakatū, the Maitai Valley, and the stunning mountains that frame our beautiful bay.
Head down to the Botanical Reserve on the city side of the hill, then cross the Maitai River via Hardy Street. Back in town, take your time exploring Nelson’s charming boutique stores. Two favourites on Hardy Street are Little Beehive Co-op , a local artist collective offering unique treasures from local creatives, and Eclectic Antiques, an enchanting emporium of vintage wonders.
After a morning of exploring, refuel at one of Nelson’s top food spots, Culture Burger Joint on Trafalgar Street and Kirby Lane are must-visits for satisfying hungry appetites. Kirby Lane’s food trucks serve up everything from karaage chicken to Italian gnocchi. As evening falls, enjoy a sunny brew at the Freehouse, then head to the enchanting Kismet for after-dark cocktails.
