Nelson offers many shopping options, from fashion outlets to award-winning jewellery artisans and boutique stores. Visit Little Beehive Co-op for unique local gifts and souvenirs. On weekends, check out the Saturday Market in Montgomery Square, a 40-year tradition with musicians, performers, and diverse stalls.
Immerse yourself in Nelson's creative scene. Visit galleries like the Suter Art Gallery for watercolours and the Craig Potton Gallery for landscape photography. For outdoor art, explore the Nelson City ArtWalk or stroll along the Maitai River to see sculptures, murals, and mosaics. Don't miss Jens Hansen's jewellery studio and Flamedaisy Glass Design.
Starting from the city centre, a walk along the Maitai River leads to the base of the Botanical Reserve. A twenty-minute uphill trek under poplar and kauri trees brings you to the Centre of New Zealand viewing platform, marked by a large white pin from the 1870s. Enjoy stunning views of the city, Tasman Bay, and the mountains. On your way down, try the Branford Park trail to the popular ‘Black Hole’ swimming spot, or continue to Walters Bluff for a longer scenic route. Alternatively, explore nearby gardens like Queens, Miyazu, or Huangshi.
Stroll down South Street, New Zealand’s oldest fully preserved street, and see the 1860s cottages built for early Nelson settlers. Explore Founders Heritage Park, with its giant windmill gift shop, artisan buildings, bright red train ride, beautiful gardens, Bristol Freighter Plane cockpit, and replica fire brigade engine house. Don’t miss the Nelson Provincial Museum in the central city for galleries, exhibitions, and tours showcasing Nelson’s history.
Tāhunanui Beach holds cherished memories and family traditions, from childhood sandcastles to sunset strolls. Just minutes from Nelson City, this beach is a year-round hub for paddleboarders, friends playing on the sand, and kids lining up at the Mr Whippy truck.
Top tip: Spend a full day here—the nearby Nelson Fun Park offers go-karts, a trampoline park, roller skating, a hydro slide, bumper boats, mini golf, a model train, and a zoo!
Minutes from the city centre, you'll find cycle tracks, a top-notch mountain bike park, and peaceful river trails. For a leisurely ride, the Maitai River Pathway offers stunning sculptures and picnic spots, and you might even see playful seal pups. Experienced riders can tackle thrilling descents on the Coppermine Trail, one of the Ngā Haerenga Great Rides. Experienced riders can explore Koata Park or Waitarake Trails.
For 10,000 years, debris from the Mackay Bluffs formed a rare 13km spit of boulders known as the Boulder Bank Scenic Reserve, sheltering Nelson's harbour. An 8km walk offers a glimpse into its history, and climbing the lighthouse provides stunning 360-degree views. Alternatively, explore the Boulder Bank by sailing, paddleboarding, or kayaking with Moana Paddle Nelson.
Nelson City's food scene offers everything from street carts to oyster bars, cocktail lounges, and boutique bakeries. Dine along Rocks Road for waterfront views or explore Hardy, Bridge, and Trafalgar Streets for renowned alfresco restaurants. Discover hidden gems in Church Street, New Street, and Kirby Lane, home to street carts with karaage chicken, falafel, and Argentinian barbecue. Don't miss the markets on Wednesdays and Saturdays for even more local flavours.
Nestled in the valley behind Nelson City lies the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary, the South Island's largest fenced haven for endangered flora and fauna. Immerse yourself in lush native bush and tranquil scenery, enjoying birdsong as you explore the sanctuary's network of tracks. Discover diverse wildlife, waterfalls, and native plants in the mossy landscapes. Guided walks and winter glow-worm tours are also available.