Things to Do in Nelson

Sit back, relax, and enjoy a 3- to 4-hour cruise that takes you through the Abel Tasman National Park, from Kaiteriteri Beach to Totaranui. This is a cruise only.

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.

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!

Embark on an Abel Tasman National Park combination tour and experience the versatility it has offer. Take a cruise, enjoy the beaches, spot wildlife, and go for a walk through stunning bush.

Included in this adventure • Approximately 90 minutes flight time exploring the Kahurangi National Park • Two-way communication between you and your pilot • 2 x Mountain landings SIGHTS: • 2 x Lord of the Rings film locations! • Unique land forms, habitats, plant communities and wildlife • Native bush • Breathtaking mountain landscapes

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

Included in this adventure • Approximately 60 minutes flight time exploring the Kahurangi National Park • Two-way communication between you and your pilot • 1 x Mountain landing SIGHTS: • Lord of the Rings film location! • Unique land forms, habitats, plant communities and wildlife • Native bush • Breathtaking mountain landscapes

Discover the forest after dark at Brook Waimārama Sanctuary. The chance to hear ruru and kiwi calls, spot glowworms, and explore New Zealand’s largest fenced eco-sanctuary on a guided night walk.

Approximately 60 minutes flight time over the Abel Tasman National Park and Kahurangi National Park. Two-way communication between you and your pilot 1 x Mountain landing SIGHTS: Breathtaking mountain landscapes Stunning golden sand beaches Picturesque lake Short walk to a nearby waterfall

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.

Included in this adventure: • Approximately 25 minutes flight time • Two-way communication between you and your pilot • 1 x mountain landing SIGHTS: • Tasman Bay • The surrounding National Parks • Snow (in Winter)

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.

Included in this adventure: • Approximately 120 minutes flight time over the Kahurangi National Park, The Wild West Coast, Abel Tasman National Park, Golden Bay and Farewell Spit • Two-way communication between you and your pilot • 1 x Mountain landing SIGHTS: • Breathtaking mountain landscapes

This unforgettable single-day self-guided adventure combines two iconic experiences kayaking in the Abel Tasman National Park then eBiking part of Nelson's Great Taste Trail.

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.

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

Walk, cruise and relax on this 3 Day/2 Night journey into Abel Tasman National Park. No need to give up modern comforts. Stay at our Beachfront Eco-Lodges, Torrent Bay Lodge and Meadowbank Homestead at Awaroa, with ensuite rooms, hot showers and delicious meals cooked for you. Lodge bag transferred by boat, you just walk with a day pack. And boat back up means walking can be shorted any day in needed or simply cruise between our beachfront lodges. We take care of the details, so you get to escape from stress, revive your senses and reconnect with what’s important to you. Discover how life just seems better here.

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!

Included in this adventure: • Approximately 40 minutes flight time exploring the Kahurangi National Park • Two-way communication between you and your pilot • 1 x Mountain landing SIGHTS: • Official Lord of the Rings film location! • Unique land forms, habitats, plant communities and wildlife • Native bush • Breathtaking mountain landscapes

Enjoy a guided or self-guided bike ride from Nelson to Mapua on the Great Taste Trail. Cycle beside coastal wetland, visit wineries, breweries, cafes, take the cycle ferry from Rabbit Island to Mapua.

Visit New Zealand’s only Tequila Farm – Kiwi Spirit Distillery specialise in unique spirits handcrafted from the purest homegrown ingredients including the only 100% Blue Agave Tequilana spirit made in New Zealand. Their family owned and operated distillery redefines what quality means. With a family history of decades of distilling they’re staunchly dedicated to quality over quantity. Golden Bay is one of the most beautiful places in the world! This small town has long been a haunt for creative free thinkers, artists and aging hippies. Nestled between two spectacular National Parks with miles of stunning golden sand beach surroundings, it’s a very special corner of New Zealand.

Discover the natural and cultural wonders of Golden Bay on a day trip. Visit Te Waikoropupu Springs, the Abel Tasman Memorial, Tata Beach, and The Grove Reserve. Enjoy lunch at a local cafe.

Included in this adventure: • Approximately 120 minutes flight time over Tasman Bay coastline, and D’Urville Island • Two-way communication between you and your pilot • 1 x Mountain landing • Dining of the fish caught by the clients and local wine and beer SIGHTS: • The beautiful D’Urville Island • Breathtaking mountain landscapes

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.

Experience the thrill of Nelson’s renowned trails with a Half-Day Electric Mountain Bike Rental. Ideal for both beginners and advanced riders, this rental features premium Mondraker eMTBs equipped with full power Bosch motors and large batteries, allowing you to navigate diverse terrains comfortably. Enjoy 4 hours of riding at your own pace, exploring trails like Codgers or the Coppermine Trail while benefiting from custom bike fittings tailored to your preferences. - Choose between morning or afternoon sessions to fit your schedule - Includes a complimentary helmet, digital trail map, and personalized setup (including pedal choice and brake-side) - Suitable for individuals and groups, with expert trail advice available - Explore over 400 km of trails designed for all skill levels - Upgrade your experience by adding a qualified and experienced mountain bike Coach or Guide

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.

Discover the best of over 400 kilometers of exhilarating mountain bike trails in Nelson with a 3-Day Shuttle MTB Weekend. Tailored for groups of four or more, this package includes seamless airport transfers, expert guidance, and customized trail selections to match your group's skill level. Ride iconic spots like Wairoa Gorge, Cable Bay Adventure Park, Fringed Hill and more, all while enjoying the convenience of dedicated shuttles that maximize your riding time without the hassle of logistics. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced rider, your expert coaches are on hand to guide you to the best trails and give you helpful hints and tips. - Minimum group size of four riders, accommodating larger groups - Includes airport pick-up, drop-off, and three days of shuttled riding - Customizable trail options for all skill levels from beginner to expert - Optional add-ons include bike rentals, coaching, and snack packages

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.

Included in this adventure • Approximately 50 minutes flight time cruising over the Abel Tasman National Park • Two-way communication between you and your pilot SIGHTS: • Golden coastlines and beautiful beaches • Native bush and bird life

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.

Enhance your mountain biking skills with personalized coaching in the stunning trails of Nelson, New Zealand. These Private Half-Day MTB Coaching Sessions cater to individuals or small groups, providing expert instruction tailored to your specific goals and skill levels. With access to the exclusive 'Field of Dreams' training facility or any of Nelson's six mountain bike parks, you’ll practice techniques in a safe environment before tackling more challenging terrains. The experienced coaches break down complex skills into manageable steps, ensuring a supportive atmosphere for learning and confidence-building. Whether you wish to master jumps or refine cornering, this coaching session is designed to progress you towards your full potential on the trails.

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.

Walk, kayak and relax on this 3 Day/2 Night journey into Abel Tasman National Park. No need to give up modern comforts. Stay at our Beachfront Eco-Lodges, Torrent Bay Lodge and Meadowbank Homestead at Awaroa, with ensuite rooms, hot showers and delicious meals cooked for you. We take care of the details, so you get to escape from stress, revive your senses and reconnect with what’s important to you. Discover how life just seems better here.

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.

Share a landscape full of stories. No experience required. Your guide supplies all the gear and information you need.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Designed to suit all abilities, this tour follows native forest trails, progressing through fields and along the banks of the river.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.