Nelson and Tasman are where sunshine, art, and adventure meet. Known for golden beaches, clear waters, and three national parks, this is a region that invites travellers to slow down, soak in the scenery, and get outdoors. From kayaking in Abel Tasman to cycling famous trails, Nelson / Tasman is the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.

🏖️ Abel Tasman National Park

The jewel of the region, Abel Tasman National Park is world-famous for its golden beaches, turquoise bays, and lush coastal forests.

• Abel Tasman Coastal Track – One of New Zealand’s Great Walks, this 60 km trail can be hiked in sections or over several days.

• Sea Kayaking – Paddle through crystal-clear waters to hidden coves, lagoons, and seal colonies.

• Water Taxi & Scenic Cruises – Take a boat ride into the park and hike a section of the track back out.

• Camping & Beach Stays – Spend a night under the stars on a golden-sand beach.

🏙️ Nelson City – Arts & Culture

Sunny Nelson is the region’s cultural hub, known for its art galleries, boutique shops, and lively Saturday Market. Visit local studios, enjoy street performances, or sip craft beer at one of the many breweries. Nelson is also the gateway to Abel Tasman, making it a great base for exploring.

🚲 Tasman’s Great Taste Trail

Cycle the Great Taste Trail, one of New Zealand’s best cycle networks. The trail links Nelson with Mapua, Motueka, and Kaiteriteri, passing vineyards, craft breweries, beaches, and orchards. You can ride short sections or take on multi-day adventures with luggage transfers.

🏄 Kaiteriteri Beach

One of New Zealand’s most beautiful beaches, Kaiteriteri is the main gateway to Abel Tasman. Its golden sand and calm waters are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and sunbathing. Many water taxi and kayak tours depart from here.

🥾 Kahurangi National Park

New Zealand’s second-largest national park, Kahurangi, is a rugged wilderness of mountains, caves, and rivers. Highlights include:

• Heaphy Track – A Great Walk that journeys from alpine landscapes to wild West Coast beaches.

• Short Walks & Caving – The park is full of day hikes and underground adventures.

🌄 Nelson Lakes National Park

South of Nelson, Nelson Lakes National Park is a pristine alpine region centred on Lakes Rotoiti and Rotoroa. Popular activities include hiking, kayaking, and fishing. The views of mountain reflections on the lakes are spectacular, especially at sunrise.

🍷 Wine & Craft Beer Tours

Nelson / Tasman is known for its sunshine and boutique producers. Join a wine tour of the Waimea Plains or Moutere Hills, where small vineyards specialise in aromatic whites and Pinot Noir. Pair it with Nelson’s booming craft beer scene, often enjoyed outdoors in the sun.

🦋 Natureland & Wildlife Encounters

For families, Natureland Wildlife Trust in Nelson is a small zoo with native and exotic animals. Out in the wild, you can spot seals, penguins, and birdlife on Abel Tasman and Golden Bay tours.

🌊 Golden Bay & Takaka

Cross over Takaka Hill to reach Golden Bay, a region of relaxed vibes, quirky art, and natural wonders. Highlights include:

• Te Waikoropupū Springs – Some of the clearest freshwater springs in the world.

• Farewell Spit – A long sand spit with guided eco-tours and birdwatching.

• Wharariki Beach – Dramatic rock formations and sweeping sand dunes.

🪂 Adventure Sports – Skydiving, Canyoning & More

Nelson / Tasman is also an adventure playground. Try skydiving over Abel Tasman, join a canyoning trip through waterfalls and gorges, or go sailing, fishing, and paddleboarding in the region’s bays.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Nelson / Tasman is a region that shines with natural beauty and endless sunshine. Whether you’re kayaking past seals in Abel Tasman, sipping wine in the sun, cycling the Great Taste Trail, or wandering through Golden Bay, it’s a destination that offers a little bit of everything — all at a relaxed pace.