Things to Do in Nelson

Sit back and relax and a enjoy our 3-4 hour cruise that takes you from Kaiteriteri Beach on full return scenic journey through to Totaranui in the Abel Tasman National Park

Our fully catered boat charter ensures you are able to experience the most of the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park in one day and in comfort. Hike, Swim, Kayak or just relax onboard. You can choose how active or relaxed you want to be in New Zealand's most loved National Park. Talk to our experienced guides to ensure they cater to your special interests or trust in their wealth of knowledge. The park is truly remarkable and is renowned for its clear emerald/blue water, golden sand beaches, wildlife including the NZ fur seal and subtropical forests and is accessible only by boat or on foot. Our day charter allows you to make the most of your day whether with a group of friends and family or that special someone. Whether you want an activity full day or to just relax and take in the stunning scenery with a glass of wine. We cater to groups with varying levels of fitness and cater to the young and old alike.

On this Abel Tasman National Park combination tour you’ll experience the best of what the area has to offer. Take a cruise, enjoy the beaches and wildlife and go for a walk through some of the stunning forests. Choose from 3 different program options.

Kiwi Journeys are excited to release the new ‘Tunnel to Town’ tour. Construction on a new 5km section of trail into Wakefield is now complete allowing this amazing day of cycling, scenery and tasting. Today you will ride through the longest disused rail tunnel in the southern hemisphere, extraordinary mountain vistas, amazing scenery through farmland, orchards, hop gardens, vineyards, coastal estuaries as well as being able to sample world class food and beverage. Mapua Wharf is amazing and highly recommended! Enjoy the Coastal trail out to Rabbit Island and the white sandy beach. Cross on the Mapua Ferry then enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Mapua Wharf with galleries, restaurants, wine bar, craft brewery, fish & chips and real fruit ice creams. Awesome day out!

Visit Cable Bay Adventure Park in Nelson for a thrilling ride above the native forest canopy on their Skywire Experience, one of the world's longest ziplines.

Embark on Wine Exposed Nelson, a journey where every sip tells a story! Discover Nelson's vibrant wine culture across its three distinct sub-regions. Guided by an expert, explore lush vineyards and boutique cellar doors of family-owned wineries. Savour the crisp chardonnays of Moutere, aromatic pinot gris of Waimea, and bold reds of Coastal Tasman. After a morning of tastings, enjoy a gourmet vineyard lunch, where local flavours pair perfectly with the region's finest wines. Immerse yourself in Nelson's natural beauty, history, and craftsmanship for an unforgettable wine adventure!

Drive a quad bike through natural forest settings, around farmland, and up to the magnificent coast of Cable Bay on a guided tour.

This is a 26 km (approx 2 hours cycle time) leisurely flat cycle ride on The Great Taste Trail which is one of New Zealand's Great Rides. You will cycle from Nelson to Mapua along the scenic Waimea coastal estuary. If it's warm, pack your swimwear, and perhaps enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches of Rabbit Island. Cycling on super-comfortable hybrid bikes or e-bikes, your ride starts from our conveniently located depot at Nelson Airport right on the Great Taste Trail. There's so much to see and do on the way to Mapua with opportunities to visit award-winning wineries, artisan breweries, and cafes and enjoy sampling the "Tastes of the Trail" Visit an art glass-blowing studio and perhaps catch them blowing glass. Feel the wind in your hair as you ride paths and boardwalks and explore beautiful wetlands with native and exotic nesting birds. We provide you with simple maps and a full trail explanation before you go. At the end of the day, we will transport you back from Mapua to Nelson.

Enjoy a fantastic full-day combination tour that involves sailing through the blue waters of the Abel Tasman National Park's coastline before setting off on one of New Zealand's best hikes.

Embark on a scenic mostly downhill or flat 40-kilometer bike ride, on the Great Taste Trail from Spooners Tunnel to Nelson. Feel the wind in your hair as you cycle amid the splendid scenery past vineyards and hop gardens, free-range chicken farms, and meandering streams. Cross Waimea River on a swing bridge. To start your adventure we will transfer you from our Nelson Airport depot at Nelson Airport to the start of the ride at the top end of the 1.4 km Spooners Tunnel, the longest disused rail tunnel in New Zealand open for cycling. Enjoy a 10-kilometer downhill thrill at the start of your ride. Along the way, enjoy the great “tastes” of the trail as you pass through Wakefield and Brightwater, home of great pies, cafes, and craft beer at local artisan brew pubs, At Appleby do a wine tasting, taste local cheeses, or a fresh berry ice cream or a craft beer. Then take a complimentary tour at Pics Peanut Butter world before heading back to Nelson Airport to finish your tour.

Enjoy a full-say sailing tour in New Zealand's coastal paradise, the Abel Tasman National Park. Savor a tasty lunch and view a fur seal colony, stunning beaches, and islands.

Great scenery, wine and food, art and history combine to make this a unique tour in the clay soils of the Moutere. The cycling couldn't be easier with an ebike and transport back to the tour starting point at the end of the day ensures an enjoyable day out. This tour is also available with a guide if desired.

Enjoy a full-day, self-guided cycling adventure and experience some the stunning scenery along Tasman’s Great Taste Trail. Stop by award-winning wineries, craft breweries and superb eateries!

Explore the Best of Abel Tasman National Park and Golden Bay in One Day! Your friendly guide will pick you up from your accommodation for a scenic journey across the Waimea Plains and Moutere Hills to Kaiteriteri. From there, enjoy a cruise along the stunning coastline of Abel Tasman National Park, famous for its clear waters, golden beaches, and fur seal colonies. Disembark at Tōtaranui for an adventure through Golden Bay, a region of breathtaking landscapes. Explore sub-tropical rainforests, intriguing rock formations, and pristine beaches. Visit Te Waikoropupū Springs, home to some of the world’s clearest water, and enjoy a gourmet picnic or a meal at a local café. Your return journey takes you over Takaka Hill, past unique granite and marble formations, with panoramic views of Golden Bay, Abel Tasman National Park, and Tasman Bay.

Choose from a range of E-biking options to suit most riders at Cable Bay Adventure Park. 11 single track options ranging from G3 - G5 or a wider graded trail out to our Bayview lookout, 14km return

Our small group personalized day-trip is the best way to experience all the Abel Tasman National Park has to offer in comfort in one day. You get to meet other travelers and receive the personal attention of the skipper as we limit numbers to 5 couples or 11 passengers. Choose how energetic you want to be with plenty of activities on offer. Our cruise itinerary is flexible and our friendly, knowledgeable skippers are excellent at locating local wildlife such as New Zealand fur seals, Little Blue penguins and on occasion dolphins.We ensure you are able to learn about the history and ecology of the Abel Tasman while take in the stunning scenery. We cruise past Split Apple Rock as far as the Tonga Island Marine Reserve in the heart of the park where New Zealand fur seals bask in the sun. Then we find a sheltered bay with opportunities to kayak, go ashore for a bush walk, or just relax on board while we prepare a delicious platter style lunch with fresh local ingredients.

Embark on a cycling adventure on the Great Taste Trail from Spooners Tunnel to Nelson. Enjoy a scenic ride through vineyards, hop country, and past free range chicken farms.

Golden Bay is truly a hiden gem providing lots of incredible surprises. Departing  your accommodation and the city we drive over the Waimea Plains in Tasman Bay through the vineyards, market gardens and orchards then forest on Marble mountain. This is a full day tour that never fails to impress and becomes a photographers playground with almost scenic overload proportions. Your every comfort is included from water, fresh fruit, tea, coffee and of course a gourmet picnic lunch as well as entrance fees into middle earth caves and the National Parks where your guide is privileged with special unique access. This day is renowned for the diversity of views and landscape formations from mountains, managed and unique native forest types. limestone and granite rock formations, incredibly clear water, estuaries, a waterfall and beautiful golden sand beaches. If time permits a stroll through the Takaka village will top of a fascinating day.

Discover Nelson’s wine culture on a guided tour. Visit boutique wineries, enjoy tastings, and savour a delicious vineyard lunch.

Abel Tasman Water and Walk is a small group tour for visitors who prefer faster access into the heart of this popular National Park so that they can spend more time exploring the many features with an expert interpretive guide who will highlight the less obvious features of Maori history, early settler activity and the endless stories that abound here, especially from the rich variety of vegetation, birds and aquatic life.

Embark on an exciting self-guided cycling journey through the newly released 5-kilometers section trail into Wakefield. Spend an amazing day of cycling, scenery, and tastings.

If you love wine and enjoy getting some exercise at the same time, this is the activity for you! We cater for groups, both large and small. This activity is unguided, but you will be briefed and have a map to show you the way. You can take your time and enjoy the tastes of Nelson at your leisure.

Explore Abel Tasman National Park by waka, boat, and on foot on this tour from Nelson. Learn about Māori culture, visit beautiful beaches, and enjoy lunch, snacks, and refreshments.

Nelson is a stunning, unique city in New Zealand, so whether it’s your first time in Nelson or you’re a seasoned visitor (or local!), our 2-3 hour city walking tour - ‘Nelson in a Nutshell’ will bring this beautiful and diverse city to life. Your tour guides are all resident Nelsonians who know the hidden gems, and with a unique insight give you a true flavour of the real Nelson. Discover Trafalgar Street, Christ Church Cathedral, The Lord of the Rings Jeweller, South Street heritage cottages, Queen’s Gardens, Suter Art Gallery, the Centre of New Zealand and so much more along the way. Prepare to be impressed!

Enjoy a fantastic New Zealand experience that gets you off the beaten track. Explore Golden Bay and Abel Tasman by land, sea and air, and see the famed clear waters of Te Waikoropupū Springs.

Have an epic time! Enjoy a scenic flight climbing to altitude-then the door opens and the adrenaline rushes as you free fall for over 80 seconds, depending on jump height chosen. When your parachute opens you gently fly over one of the most beautiful areas in the world. You are in great hands with the friendly staff and stellar safety record. Experience the best scenery, the friendliest team and an amazing photography package. Opt for the photography package and star in your own video and receive over 60 still photos (own expense). Capture some priceless moments to relive again and again.

Experience the best views of Nelson, Tasman Bay, and surrounding National Parks on this helicopter flight. Land at a high altitude in the remote mountain range for excellent photo opportunities.

Treat yourself to the only scheduled Full Day sailing tour in New Zealand's coastal paradise - the Abel Tasman National Park.  Either chill out and relax, get involved in the sailing or learn as you go, you decide! Experience some great sailing, enjoy some stunning beaches and islands, with a full hour to enjoy your lunch and relax on Anchorage Beach.  A great opportunity to go swimming or take a short walk and explore the caves. Visit the Fur Seal Colony, Split Apple Rock, and much more on your return to Kaiteriteri Beach - see all the highlights on this tour.

Take in panoramic views of The Sounds and Tasman Bay by riding a helicopter from Nelson. Feel the thrill of flying on this guided tour and enjoy a picnic from a mountain peak in Mount Richmond Park.

Our most popular quad bike tour - Explore over 14 km of beautiful native forest trails. Ride high to the hilltops, to spectacular coastal scenery, then down through the farmlands. Light refreshments included.

Explore Abel Tasman National Park on a guided hiking tour with a cruise, with departure from Nelson. Discover the park’s stunning landscapes, learn about its history, and relax on golden beaches.

If you love beer and fancy getting some exercise at the same time, this is the tour for you! We cater for groups, big and small. This tour is unguided, but you will be briefed and have a map to show you the way. You can take your time and enjoy the tastes of Nelson at your leisure.

Discover the beauty of Nelson Lakes National Park on a day trip from Nelson. Enjoy a scenic drive, a walk through a beech forest, and a delicious lunch on the edge of Lake Rotoiti.

Explore the National Park with a morning water taxi, a short walk and an afternoon sail. Board your water taxi at 10.30 am at Kaiteriteri Beach and cruise into the Abel Tasman National Park. Cruise by the iconic Split Apple Rock, and Fisherman and Adele Islands where you may see the NZ Fur Seals. After 35 minutes you arrive at Anchorage Bay where you have time to walk the Pitt Head loop track (walk time approximately 1 -1.5 hours). This walk takes you to Te Pukatea Bay - a quiet bay and one of the crews favourite beaches in the National Park. Walk back to Anchorage to meet the skipper and join the sailing catamaran departing at 1.15pm. Catch the sea breeze for a 3 hour sail further into the Park and back to Kaiteriteri. Along the way expect to see secluded coves, islands, golden sand beaches, Bush clad coastline, pristine clear waters and native wildlife. Complimentary tea/coffee and juice is provided on board the sailing catamaran.

Take to the sky in a private helicopter flight from Nelson Airport and experience a slice of the Abel Tasman paradise. Land at Awaroa Bay and have time for a walk, a swim, or lunch at the lodge.

Kiwi Journeys are excited to release the new ‘Tunnel to Town’ tour. Construction on a new 5km section of trail into Wakefield is now complete allowing this amazing day of cycling, scenery and tasting. Today you will ride through the longest disused rail tunnel in the southern hemisphere, extraordinary mountain vistas, amazing scenery through farmland, orchards, hop gardens, vineyards, coastal estuaries as well as being able to sample world class food and beverages.

Abel Tasman Water & Walk with half-day Kayak is a fantastic adventure where you get to explore the best of the park from both land & sea.

The Skywire is one of the Worlds longest Flying Fox experiences! - your trip starts from our Base area, onboarding a mini-bus journey up through the Native Forest to the launch platform of the Skywire. Your guides will entertain you on the trip up with facts and stories of the forest, points of interest and surrounding areas. The Skywire ride takes up to 4 people at a time and can reach a speeds of up to 100km/hr. The ride takes you both on a forward facing and backwards journey, with 800 metres of gravity assisted freewheeling in each direction - combined with 700 metres of a scenic journey in each direction, finishing back at the start after nearly 12 minutes of thrilling adventure!

Take to the skies with a scenic helicopter flight and admire the Marlborough Sounds from above. Fly over the Pelorus, Kenepuru, and Queen Charlotte Sounds and land on either a beach or mountain top.

This full day self-guided cycle adventure takes in some of the most stunning scenery on Tasman’s Great Taste Trail taking approximately 3 -4 hours of cycling. There are many fun stops along the way with award winning wineries, craft breweries, and the Pics Peanut Butter Factory to name a few. Cycle along the old rail route from Nelson City to Richmond then turn onto the picturesque Coastal Route to Rabbit Island and Mapua. It is all grade one riding (easy) where a moderate fitness level is required. A short ride on the Mapua Ferry has you landing on the Mapua Wharf where the vibe and atmosphere is very relaxing while you enjoy some great food and beverages. This is also a great day out for the whole family.

Discover the art and wine scene of Nelson Tasman on a guided tour. Explore galleries, sip award-winning wines, and enjoy a delicious lunch.

We've been welcoming visitors to the spectacular Abel Tasman granite coast since 1841. Travel in style on our Vista Cruise. There's no need to go ashore to discover idyllic, golden sand bays, fringed by lush native forest and sculptured headlands. Pause beside offshore islands to view the antics of fur seals. Relax with comfortable seating on board or choose a beach stop with optional walks.

Experience a private, curated journey through the heart of the Nelson Tasman region, blending natural beauty, artisanal craftsmanship, and exquisite cuisine. Enjoy tastings and a gourmet lunch.

Begin with a shuttle ride into the picturesque Tasman hills, where the journey kicks off at Kohatu Flat Rock Café with a hot coffee and a scrumptious cheese scone. Cycle along a thrilling 55km off-road trail that winds through vibrant hop fields, lush forests and charming villages, all while following the historic railway route, adorned with informative panels. A standout moment is the exhilarating passage through Spooner’s Tunnel, the longest cycle tunnel in the southern hemisphere, where you'll navigate through complete darkness with provided lights. Conclude your ride at local taverns, savoring a refreshing craft beer to celebrate your adventure.

Embark on a cycling adventure on the Great Taste Trail from Spooners Tunnel to Nelson. Enjoy a scenic ride through vineyards, hop country, and past free range chicken farms.

Explore the stunning mountain biking trails of Nelson with a Private Half-Day Shuttle experience. Perfect for intermediate to advanced riders, this service allows you to choose from renowned trails like the Cable Bay Adventure Park, Silvan Mountain Bike Park, Fringed Hill and Codgers Mountain Bike Park. Three full shuttle runs over approximately three hours mean less uphill struggle and more exhilarating descents. With a dedicated shuttle vehicle and local driver, enjoy tailored trail selections that match your group’s skill level and preferences. Bring your crew, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of diverse landscapes while making unforgettable memories on the trails.

Explore the vibrant art scene of Nelson. Visit galleries, studios, and meet the artists. Enjoy lunch and refreshments along the way at a renowned local restaurant.

This is a 26 km (2 hours approx) leisurely flat cycle ride on The Great Taste Trail which is one of New Zealand's Great Rides. You will cycle from Nelson to Mapua along the scenic Waimea coastal estuary. If it's warm, pack your swimwear, and perhaps enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches of Rabbit Island. Cycling on super-comfortable hybrid bikes or ebikes, your ride starts from our conveniently located depot at Nelson Airport right on the Great Taste Trail. There's so much to see and do on the way to Mapua with opportunities to visit award-winning wineries, artisan breweries, cafes and enjoy sampling the "Tastes of the Trail" Visit an art glass blowing studio and perhaps catch them blowing glass. Feel the wind in your hair as you ride paths and boardwalks and explore beautiful wetlands with native and exotic nesting birds. We provide you simple maps and full trail explanation before you go. At the end of the day we will transport you back from Mapua to Nelson.

Experience the magic of riding a helicopter over the diverse New Zealand scenery. Take a tour from Nelson and fly over Golden Bay to visit the country's only tequila farm with guided liquor tastings.

Explore Nelson's stunning mountain biking trails with a guided ride tailored just for your interests and level. This 3 to 4-hour adventure is can be tailored for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders, ensuring a personalized experience that matches your abilities. With over 400 kilometers of single-track trails too choose from, across six different riding hubs, your expert guide will lead you through scenic routes and flowing single-tracks. Benefit from their extensive local knowledge, riding tips, and safety support as you navigate the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand's premier biking destination. Our qualified guides are passionate riders with extensive local knowledge, ready to share insider tips and hidden gems to level up your mountain bike skills in a fun and rewarding way.