Destination overview

Culture and coastline combine in Nelson.

Situated in New Zealand’s South Island, Nelson is the island’s oldest city, carrying a rich and fascinating history.

Deeply rooted in Maori Heritage, immerse yourself in the culture at Whakatu Marae as you learn the haka, bushwalk with a Maori guide and take the paddle of a lifetime in a carved Maori canoe (waka). Despite being one of the country’s smaller wine regions, Nelson produces some of the best wine on offer. With plenty of sun, snow-capped peaks and fertile soil, the region has all makings for cool climate drops. These conditions also contribute to the fresh produce that makes the area renowned and with a paddock to plate philosophy, you’re guaranteed the best of the best.

Enjoy the great outdoors in the Abel Tasman National Park as you walk or kayak the stunning coastline, visit the most northerly point at Cape Farewell as seals bask on the rocks and see the largest and cleanest springs in the Southern Hemisphere at Te Waikorupupu Springs.

With so much to see and do, your hardest decision is where to start.