Nelson Regional Information
Nelson | Regional Information | Activity Highlights | Scenic Highlights | History
Arty and interesting, there are plenty of reasons for the sun to shine in Nelson, New Zealand. Enjoy the beautiful environment while you get acquainted with the creative local culture.
Nelson Overview
Situated in the north-west corner of the South Island, the Nelson region is surrounded by sheltering mountain ranges giving it a mediterranean-type climate.
The Nelson region is known for its year-round sunshine, golden beaches, national parks, boutique wineries, micro breweries and a large creative community of working artists. Add to this locally grown produce, freshly caught seafood, historical streetscapes and waterfront restaurants and you'll see that it offers a thoroughly pleasurable way of life.
The city of Nelson was named after Admiral Lord Nelson of Battle of Trafalgar fame. It's home to a community that combines a relaxed approach to life with a get-up-and-go attitude. This is where you can organise yourself an adventure, or begin an arty shopping spree. Every year the city hosts the Montana New Zealand Wearable Art Awards, where art comes off the wall and onto the body in many weird and wonderful ways.
Send a Nelson related E-Postcard to your friends.
Nelson Highlights
Nelson, New Zealand
Photographer: Ian Trafford
(www.iantraffordphotos.com)
From Nelson it's easy to access any of three National Parks. Abel Tasman National Park is a coastal wonderland of sea, sky, rocky headlands and bright golden beaches.
The Nelson Lakes National Park is set amidst the mountains and glaciated valleys south of Nelson city and features beech forests and the beautiful jewel-like lakes, Rotoiti and Rotoroa. Kahurangi, New Zealand's second-largest national park, comprises 450,000 hectares of mostly upland wilderness, with magnificent three to four-day hiking trails.
Adventure operators make it easy to find the most magical places in the region. Kayak, river rafting, mountain bike, horse, 4WD (four-wheel drive) motorbike—you name it, you can do it!
Main Regions in the Nelson Region
- Nelson - arts and crafts, fine food, amazing lifestyle
- Motueka - the closest town to the Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks
- Golden Bay - famous for Farewell Spit and the Te Waikoropupu Springs
- Takaka - the main centre for the Golden Bay area
- Abel Tasman National Park - popular for tramping, kayaking, camping and sightseeing
Useful Nelson Links
To help plan your Nelson holiday choose from the main categories below
- Nelson Accommodation
- Nelson Tours
- Nelson Attractions and Activities
- Nelson Transport
- Nelson Cusine and Dining
- Nelson Shopping
- Nelson Visitor Information
Send a Nelson related E-Postcard to your friends.
Nelson Region Information
Regional Information
Key information and facts about the Nelson region.
Activity Highlights
Major activities and attractions in the Nelson region.
Scenic Highlights
Major natural attractions in the Nelson region.
History
History of the Nelson region.
Nelson Tourism Operators
Choose from our accommodation, attractions, tours, transport or visitor information categories below to find a tourism operator in Nelson.
