Nelson Tasman
It's no secret that emerald waters and golden sand await at the top of the South Island. But dig a little deeper in Nelson Tasman (Whakatū/Te Tai o Aorere) and you'll find there's much more to the sunshine capital.
Adventurers have three National Parks to choose from, including the pristine coastal paradise of Abel Tasman National Park, accessible by foot, kayak or sailboat. Kahurangi is home to the country's longest Great Walk, deep canyons and plenty of white water, while the Nelson Lakes is an underrated gem with the clearest water in the world.
Foodies can take their palate along craft beer and wine trails, make their own peanut butter, or have their fill of unique sweet and savoury creations in the unofficial doughnut capital of New Zealand. All that plus strange rock formations, lost tunnels, thrilling adventure rides, and even a hotel shaped like a boot.
See & Do
Cycle New Zealand’s first railway line, hop between golden sand and native bush in our smallest National Park, and walk through a series of limestone caves.
A beautiful spring
Not far from Tākaka, at the end of a half-hour stroll through the bush, is one of the wonders of nature. Te Waikoropupū Springs funnel some of the world's clearest fresh water. Up to ten years of filtering through the surrounding rock means that what surges up out of the multiple springs feeding the pools is so pure and clear that the only thing obscuring your view of the various plant species carpeting the bottom is the fabulous blue tint of the water. The springs are of great spiritual significance to the local iwi and it is forbidden to swim in, drink or even touch the water here. Read more
Te Waikoropupū Springs has some of the clearest waters in the world. BROOK SABIN
Te Waikoropupū Springs has some of the clearest waters in the world. BROOK SABIN
Insider tip: Up the road from the springs you'll find Pupu Walkway, a two-hour loop that follows an old mining waterway. At times, you'll be walking on a skinny platform next to the water race.
The small town full of big adventures
If you've ever been to Abel Tasman National Park, chances are you've driven through Motueka. You probably didn't realise you were making a sizeable mistake. Motueka is one of those provincial uncut gems that's suddenly becoming a whole lot more polished in recent years. There's a world-class doughnut café, saltwater baths, a historic wreck, lively markets and it's even home to the highest tandem skydive in New Zealand. Read more
Much more than sand
Farewell Spit is one of the longest sand spits anywhere in the world. One side faces the treacherous Tasman Sea and, on the other side, you'll find the protected and calm waters of Golden Bay. This dynamic gives the enormous 25-kilometre stretch of sand two distinct personalities. Tens of thousands of seabirds can be found at the spit, including godwits that fly there each summer. Only a small part of the reserve is open to the public, so the best way to explore it is with Farewell Spit Eco Tours, which takes visitors to the lighthouse right at the end, where seals bask on the rocks. Read more
Farewell Spit is the northernmost point of the South Island. BROOK SABIN
Farewell Spit is the northernmost point of the South Island. BROOK SABIN
The Coppermine Trail comes with spectacular views. VIRGINIA WOOLF PHOTOGRAPHY
The Coppermine Trail comes with spectacular views. VIRGINIA WOOLF PHOTOGRAPHY
Biking New Zealand's first railway line
On the edge of Nelson, New Zealand’s first railway line is now one of the country’s best one-day mountain bike rides. Opened as a Great Ride in 2011, the Coppermine Trail is an absolute must-do for mid-skill mountain bikers. The trail forms a wonderful 43km loop high in the hills, taking a good 4-6 hours or a bit less on an e-bike. The trail traverses Nelson’s mineral belt, with fantastic views over Tasman Bay until the trail sidles into mature beech forest. Read more
As the name suggests, Split Apple Rock looks like an apple which has been cut in half. DANE AND STACEY
As the name suggests, Split Apple Rock looks like an apple which has been cut in half. DANE AND STACEY
One of our strangest rock formations
The stunning Nelson Tasman region is home to one of New Zealand's unique rock formations, Split Apple Rock/Tokangawhā, a giant apple-shaped boulder that appears like it's been sliced right down the middle. Splapple, as it's known by some locals, can be reached a few different ways. You can opt for a kayak tour from Kaiteriteri Beach, a 15-minute walk down to the beach at low-tide or a boat ride along the coast. Read more
A GUIDE TO ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK
Compared to sprawling and rugged Fiordland National Park, Abel Tasman National Park is small and easily negotiated, but there's no trade-off in spectacular coastal scenery or active adventure thrills.
Topping the exciting list of ways to experience the park is the Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of DOC's Great Walks, and a 60km journey through forest and along golden sand beaches fringing Golden Bay.
Visitors usually take from three to five days to complete the track, but with a flexible armada of water taxis, it's also possible to break the track up into day adventures, or just focus on specific sections of the track. You can also arrange multi-day walking and kayaking explorations of the track and coastline where nights are spent in the comfort of waterfront lodges.
Freedom rentals are available from the beachfront hamlet of Mārahau, and it's possible to meander along the coast staying at DOC's Great Walks huts and campsites, or do shorter day kayak excursions to the park's scenic highlights.
Guided kayak tours incorporating coastal walks and return trips by water taxi are also an option to maximise time visiting the park. Local operators can all advise on versatile ways to experience one of the world's best sea-kayaking destinations.
Off the water, other highlights include beach horse riding, canyoning adventures and scenic flights to see the spectacle of the park from above.
A hidden slice of the tropics
Visiting Golden Bay/Mohua feels like being tucked away in a secluded bay in Fiji. Turquoise waters lap at your feet, and the only footprints on the beach are your own. There's only one road into this little paradise, but once you arrive the region has no shortage of beauty to discover. You'll want to start with one of the many bays that line the coast. Vibrant tiny towns are too good to miss for their excellent cafés and award-winning chocolate shops, while you can also access Abel Tasman National Park and explore some of the lesser-visited bays on a day hike. Read more
Walk between stalactites and moa bones
An escorted wander through the meandering Ngārua Caves is much more than a stroll in the dark. After being kitted out with a helmet and torch you set off for a 45-minute walk through part of the cave system that riddles the huge Tākaka Hill. It’s a revelation to walk amongst its bones and know that this rock is millions of years old. There are real bones too: the remains of a moa from 25,000 years ago and ancient kiwi skeletons. You’ll also learn about the geology, the history and the formations, of which there is a wide range. Read more
Horse riding is one of the best ways to see Wharariki. CAPE FAREWELL HORSE TREKS
Horse riding is one of the best ways to see Wharariki. CAPE FAREWELL HORSE TREKS
Remote, rugged and spectacular
This a screensaver classic: a long, open beach where blue sea foams white onto sparkling sand, framed by sculpted cliffs with, as its focal point, a set of pierced islands. Often there's no-one else to be seen here, unless you count the colony of fur seals playing in the rock pools. Don't even think about swimming: the waves are fierce and the rips powerful. Instead, go on a horse trek or explore one of the walking tracks in the area. Cape Farewell is well worth the effort for its spectacular views. Read more
Te Ramaroa (Light Nelson) is a highlight of Nelson Arts Festival. LIGHT NELSON/ANA GALLOWAY
Te Ramaroa (Light Nelson) is a highlight of Nelson Arts Festival. LIGHT NELSON/ANA GALLOWAY
A vibrant arts community
The Nelson Tasman arts community is multi-faceted and diverse in both vision and medium, much like the region it thrives in. And there are more than a handful of artists, councils and festivals who showcase the city’s talents. ArtWalk is an outdoor art gallery with more than 20 sites scattered throughout the city. The Suter Art Gallery is the oldest continuously occupied public art gallery in New Zealand, and Nelson Saturday Markets is where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast while browsing the work of sculptors, landscape painters, knitters and musicians. Read more
Insider tip: Pick up the Golden Bay Arts Trail Map from i-SITE, and hop between museums, galleries and creatives out west.
THE BEST BEACHES OF NELSON TASMAN
Kaiteriteri Beach
There’s a reason why Kaiteriteri always features in the “best beaches” lists in this country. Located 15 minutes from Motueka, the golden sands and clear waters are iconic. It’s perfect for swimming, you can hire kayaks, enjoy scenic walkways, there’s a fantastic playground as well as cafés, eateries and ice cream shops.
Kaiteriteri Beach Lookout. NELSONTASMAN.NZ
Kaiteriteri Beach Lookout. NELSONTASMAN.NZ
Ligar Bay
Tucked away in Golden Bay is a place that looks like it's straight out of a tropical brochure. Ligar Bay is best visited at high tide, where golden sands give way to a shallow bay.
Tata Beach
This small coastal settlement is a year-round favourite thanks to its safe kayaking and swimming, as well as access to viewing wildlife with dolphins that can be seen in the bay and little blue penguin/kororā tracks over the beach.
Tata Beach. NELSONTASMAN.NZ
Tata Beach. NELSONTASMAN.NZ
Horoirangi Marine Reserve
Not a beach as such, but a great place to get wet and do some snorkelling and scuba diving. The marine reserve lies between Cable Bay and Glenduan to the north of Nelson. There’s some easy snorkelling at Cable Bay too. Look out for crayfish, starfish and sponges, as well as blue cod, tarakihi and snapper.
Tāhunanui Beach
Right on Nelson’s doorstep is this iconic, family-friendly beach. It’s one of New Zealand's best urban beach experiences, with gentle, sun-warmed surf and tides, it is the sort of place which lifelong happy holiday memories are made in. With a 1.75km stretch of sand, there’s plenty of room for activities, whether it be sunbathing, swimming, paddleboarding or kitesurfing.
Hidden Gems
Head down the South Island's secret sinkhole, ride a giant flying fox above the forest canopy, and help to paddle a double-hulled waka.
An underrated gem of the South Island
Although the top of the South Island is mainly known for its perfect sandy beaches and hidden sapphire bays, one of the real gems of the area lies inland. Nelson Lakes National Park is an easily accessible escape with tramping tracks for all ages and skill levels, whether you’re passing through on a day trip, taking a weekend away, or have a full week to spare. The most popular destination is undoubtedly Rotomaninitua/Lake Angelus, an alpine tarn set amid towering mountains in the heart of the park. Read more
The Kerr Bay Jetty on Lake Rotoiti is a popular photo stop. NELSONTASMANNZ
The Kerr Bay Jetty on Lake Rotoiti is a popular photo stop. NELSONTASMANNZ
The flying fox for four people
Cable Bay Adventure Park is set on 400 hectares of pristine bush, and is almost like a miniature national park. Above an impressive array of tōtara, mataī and kahikatea you'll find the Skywire. It’s technically a flying fox, but feels a little more like a rollercoaster meets a zip line. The 1.6km (one-way) ride runs along an enormous cable strung between two valleys, shooting down one side before doing it again backwards. You can ride the flying fox with four people in total. And the more people, the faster it goes. Read more
More adventure activities to get your blood pumping
As one of the best regions in the country to get out and about, you’d expect Nelson Tasman to have a range of exciting adventure activities. And you’d be right. A few of the highlights to get the blood pumping include the highest tandem skydive in the country, a jet boat ride which surfs on earthquake rapids, plus a zip line which fires you across a river at speed. Read more
The beach you can only reach on foot
After Awaroa Beach was put on sale by a private owner in 2016, an ambitious crowdfunding campaign was launched to buy it for public use. Almost $3 million later, the beach is now managed by DOC and has been incorporated into the Abel Tasman National Park. With no direct road access, most people arrive by foot, water taxi, or helicopter. Along with its stunning location, general remoteness, unique wildlife and compelling backstory, Awaroa also is home to a stunning tidal estuary on the northern end of the beach. Read more
Sunset on Awaroa Beach is magnificent any time of year. LIZ CARLSON
Sunset on Awaroa Beach is magnificent any time of year. LIZ CARLSON
The saltwater bath on Motueka's waterfront is more than 80 years old. NELSONTASMANNZ
The saltwater bath on Motueka's waterfront is more than 80 years old. NELSONTASMANNZ
Bathing with a difference
The Motueka Saltwater Baths date back to 1938. The urban legend (or should it be a rural legend) is that the baths were created after swimmers spotted sharks, and wanted somewhere safe to take a dip. However, that's never been proven, and the popular pool is often crowded in summer, so you'll want to get in early. Read more
Journey through NZ's lost tunnel
The Great Taste Trail is an extensive cycle loop taking in Nelson, Motueka, Wakefield, Richmond and Kaiteriteri — and as the name suggests, there are plenty of food and wine stops along the way. Spooners Tunnel is a standout attraction on the 159-kilometre ride. The 1.4km tunnel was constructed in the late 1800s as part of a plan to create a rail connection to the West Coast. As you enter the tunnel, you quickly realise there is no light source inside, and then once you are about 500 metres in, it is complete darkness. A glint of light finally appears and the trail eventually pops out in thick native bush. Read more
Harwoods Hole seen on a scenic flight. NELSONTASMAN.NZ
Harwoods Hole seen on a scenic flight. NELSONTASMAN.NZ
The South Island's secret sinkhole
Harwoods Hole is the largest vertical shaft in the country and is reached on a leisurely 45-minute walk through dense beech forest. Near the end of the track, the path forks. One leads to a lookout, which has magnificent views of the Tākaka Valley. The other track leads to the sinkhole itself, a 176-metre shaft that disappears deep below. Don't get near the edge – there are no fences or safety rails. Read more
It's not uncommon to have the water to yourself in Abel Tasman. BROOK SABIN
It's not uncommon to have the water to yourself in Abel Tasman. BROOK SABIN
Abel Tasman Coast Walk is the country's most accessible Great Walk. BROOK SABIN
Abel Tasman Coast Walk is the country's most accessible Great Walk. BROOK SABIN
The Janie Seddon is a popular social media stop. BROOK SABIN
The Janie Seddon is a popular social media stop. BROOK SABIN
You can ride through the 1.4km Spooners Tunnel. BROOK SABIN
You can ride through the 1.4km Spooners Tunnel. BROOK SABIN
The uniquely Aotearoa coastal adventure
In Abel Tasman National Park can you paddle a double-hulled waka while learning about the rich cultural history of the region and te ao Māori. Heading out with Waka Abel Tasman from Kaiteriteri Beach brings such a beautiful, rich cultural depth to the experience, as you carve through the brilliant turquoise waters, past islands of granite rocks, golden sand beaches framed with forest greens and striking red pōhutukawa blooms. Read more
Waka Abel Tasman teaches guests how to paddle a waka and deepen their knowledge of te ao Māori. SUPPLIED
Waka Abel Tasman teaches guests how to paddle a waka and deepen their knowledge of te ao Māori. SUPPLIED
A flaming good bush walk
Tucked away deep in the bush outside Murchison are flames which have been burning virtually non-stop for almost a century. The marvel is a seepage of natural gas that was lit by a couple of farmers who followed their noses while out hunting. The flames have been flickering beneath the fern leaves ever since, used for cooking and making billy tea by passing hunters and visitors. They're now the highlight of the four-hour Natural Flames Experience. Read more
Insider tip: Hike Nelson’s Centre of New Zealand Walk for photographic evidence of your visit to the country's “centre”. The short and steep climb rewards walkers with panoramic views across the city to the sea.
A GUIDE TO KAHURANGI NATIONAL PARK
Linking the Golden Bay region and the West Coast, one of New Zealand's most popular Great Walks is the highlight of the country's second-largest national park.
Remote Tasman Sea beaches and idiosyncratic limestone formations feature along the 78km route of the Heaphy Track, while there's more spectacular karst scenery in the park's southern region near Karamea.
Embark on the Heaphy's comprehensive tramping adventure, or take a short riverside stroll to the Oparara Basin's natural landscapes dating back 35 million years.
There's also diversity in the park's flora and fauna. More than 80 per cent of the park is densely forested, with a huge range of alpine and subtropical vegetation represented. Around 60 bird species include kiwi, and the endangered whio and takahē.
At either end of the Heaphy Track, easygoing Tākaka, Collingwood and Karamea are relaxed spots to either prepare for the walk, or relax at the end of it.
NEW ZEALAND'S WALKING MECCA
Pūponga Hilltop Track
Dramatically carved coastal cliffs, wild, windswept Wharariki Beach, cute colonies of seals, and one of the world’s longest natural sandspits are highlights of this 8km west coast walk. Beginning amid the giant sand dunes of Farewell Spit, the track climbs to a lighthouse before continuing to Cape Farewell, where you’ll see some pretty cool cliffs and – often – a gang of sun-worshipping seals. From there, you’ll make your way to Wharariki Beach with its sand dunes and interestingly shaped sea caves and sea arches.
The Grove Scenic Reserve. BROOK SABIN
The Grove Scenic Reserve. BROOK SABIN
The Grove Scenic Reserve
The gnarly roots of northern rātā creeping down large limestone blocks will make you feel like you’ve entered an enchanted kingdom – or perhaps the ruins of an ancient one – on this lesser-known short walk. The track winds its way through the walls of blocks, some of which have been sculpted into weird and wonderful shapes by water, to a viewing platform overlooking the plains and beaches of the lower Tākaka Valley.
Lake Rotoiti Circuit
Set in Nelson Lakes National Park, Lake Rotoiti is a delight at any time of year, but particularly in the cooler months, when the mountains that hug it cast snowy reflections in the water. To complete the loop in a day, take a water taxi to Lakehead or Coldwater Hut and walk back to Kerr Bay. To experience the whole circuit, spend a night in one of DOC's lakeside huts. Look forward to towering trees alive with the sound of native birdlife.
Sunset at Cable Bay Walkway. @CJMADDOCK
Sunset at Cable Bay Walkway. @CJMADDOCK
Cable Bay Walkway
It would be hard to find a more romantic spot for a picnic than the boulder-strewn hilltop overlooking Cable Bay. The entire walk takes about 3.5 hours one way, but it’ll only take you about an hour return to reach the top of the first hill from the Cable Bay end (although you are in for a steep climb). It’s well worth doing the full walk though, which takes in rolling farmland, native bush and spectacular views of Nelson, the Te Pokohiwi/Boulder Bank and Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks.
Eat & Drink
Visit Nelson's peanut butter wonderland, drink a pint at the country's oldest pub, and catch your own salmon for lunch.
The ultimate summer treat
Built back in the 1850s, Motueka’s Toad Hall was the town’s original schoolhouse. It’s been through many lives since, but is now home to some of the best pies in the region, a taproom for the brewery out the back, and the ultimate summery treat. Toad Hall's real fruit ice cream is one particularly famous attraction, thanks to the oversized servings and use of local produce. Read more
Burger Culture is a popular eatery on Trafalgar Street. NEAT PLACES/SUPPLIED
Burger Culture is a popular eatery on Trafalgar Street. NEAT PLACES/SUPPLIED
Five food streets of Nelson Tasman
The Nelson Tasman food and drink scene is a mixture of exciting newcomers matched with popular staples that have stood the test of time. Access to fresh local produce from both land and the sea makes the city a big player in NZ’s food scene, and a true culinary destination. A collection of downtown streets play host to some of the best spots in town, including a bustling outdoor eatery with resident food trucks, and a picturesque option in the city with masses of outdoor seating. Read more
Peanut butter heaven
Visitors to Pic's Peanut Butter World in Nelson can learn all about the process of making peanut butter and then have a go at making their own on a pedal-powered nut crusher. The free guided tours, which run three times per day from Monday to Friday, take a whirlwind trip of the factory floor from the roasting to packing stations. No visit is complete without ordering something peanut buttery from the on-site eatery and a selfie with the world’s largest peanut butter jar. Read more
New Zealand’s small-town doughnut capital
For doughnut lovers, Motueka's The Smoking Barrel is of biblical importance. The flavours are extraordinary. We're talking creations filled with bourbon caramel and vanilla crème brulee. Then there are the breakfast doughnuts, like bacon and eggs benedict, and a cheeseburger doughnut which tastes exactly like it sounds. The café, run by husband and wife team Josiah and Rachel Smits, makes around 400 doughnuts per day, and are usually sold out in about three hours. Read more
Taste the Tasman
Nelson Tasman is humming with makers, bakers, brewers and producers. The region is filled with passionate entrepreneurs who practise traditional baking methods, wine techniques, roast coffee and make the best use of the top of the South Island’s bounty. From craft beer goodness to handmade chocolate and a Saturday market showcasing a huge variety of everything locally made and grown, Nelson Tasman is a destination where appreciating all things artisan comes easy. Read more
Sublime Brew Bar is a one-stop shop for serious coffee drinkers. NEAT PLACES/SUPPLIED
Sublime Brew Bar is a one-stop shop for serious coffee drinkers. NEAT PLACES/SUPPLIED
Lunch on the lawn at Forsters is a must-do in the Moutere Valley. LIZ CARLSON
Lunch on the lawn at Forsters is a must-do in the Moutere Valley. LIZ CARLSON
For food, wine and craft beer connoisseurs
Discerning foodies will quickly realise how special Moutere truly is. The region is home to high quality produce — from glorious wine to mushroom forests, handmade cheese and olive oil to die for, they have it all. You haven’t lived unless you’ve tried the delicious Neudorf black garlic and no visit is complete without a trip to The Moutere Inn, New Zealand’s oldest bar to remain in its original building. Read more
Catch your own lunch
There's nothing more satisfying than catching your lunch and having a chef deliver it to you 20 minutes later. There are few places where you get the complete farm to table experience, but in the spirit of raising consciousness about the foods we eat, Anatoki Salmon heightens the experience for a truly fresh serving of salmon. Once you’ve caught your salmon from the lake, you can enjoy it hot smoked, as sashimi, or on top of a pizza. Read more
The award-winning smoked warehou and terakihi. SUPPLIED
The award-winning smoked warehou and terakihi. SUPPLIED
The South Island's best pie shop
It’s easy to miss when you’re driving down State Highway 60 just out of Motueka, but look out for the humble shipping containers which make up Ginger Dynamite Go Go Food and Coffee. Soon to be renamed the Riwaka Tuckshop, this side-of-the-road café is no fuss, but big on taste, with an extremely loyal local following thanks to its top-notch pies and great coffee. The smoked fish pie is award-winning, as is their vegetarian option, the lentil and potato curry pie. Read more
A one-of-a-kind culinary adventure
Guided tours with Wine, Art & Wilderness combine the best food, wine and art of Tasman, from sipping wine direct from the barrel, sampling fresh olive oil, devouring food platters and drinking craft beer at New Zealand’s oldest pub. The tours are mostly bespoke, so guests can determine how they eat, drink and their way around the region. Read more
Insider tip: Take a self-guided tour of Nelson's Craft Beer Trail by downloading Craft Brewing Capital's free online map.
A TOUR OF HOP COUNTRY
Sprig + Fern
Sprig + Fern is a local legend, brewing sessionable craft beers and ciders from their Richmond base. Since opening their first tavern in 2007, they’ve built up something of an empire with taverns dotted all over the region, as well as outlets in Christchurch and Wellington. True beer geeks will be pleased to know Sprig + Fern serves all their beers as precisely measured imperial pints – so you’re guaranteed your fill of the good stuff.
Sprig + Fern. SUPPLIED
Sprig + Fern. SUPPLIED
The Workshop
In an industrial building in central Nelson is The Workshop, a very funky microbrewery, bar and eatery where you’ll be served your beers from a shipping container. Beers are brewed just metres from where you sit, with a focus on real ales. A tempting menu of pizza, burgers, and snacks like buffalo wings and barbecue pork ribs will have you settling in for the evening – be sure to check the blackboard to see what’s going for dessert.
The Mussel Inn
If you’re heading over Tākaka Hill into Golden Bay, popping into The Mussel Inn in Onekakā is a must. This local institution café and live music venue also houses a small brewery that produces all-natural beers made from locally sourced ingredients. Be sure to try their signature ‘Captain Cooker’ beer, an amber all-malt beer, flavoured with freshly picked mānuka tree tips.
Golden Bear Brewing
For great beers in a stunning location, head to Golden Bear at Māpua Wharf. The brewery is perched on a prime position with plenty of outdoor seating for enjoying beers in the sun. The owners hail from Los Angeles, and that influence can be seen in the food menu, with tacos, burritos, quesadillas and burgers on offer, which go perfectly with the California-style pales and IPAs.
Golden Bear Brewing. SUPPLIED
Golden Bear Brewing. SUPPLIED
Hop Federation Brewery
Don’t pass through Riwaka without making a stop at Hop Federation. Conveniently positioned right in the middle of hop country, this family-run brewery aims to mostly use hops grown within a 100-kilometre radius. Pop into their neat little roadside cellar door to taste your way through their range, which includes seasonal, experimental and one-off creations.
Stay
Sleep in a fairytale boot hotel, book your own island getaway for under $200, or take your steed to a horse-friendly homestead.
A state-of-the-art eco-hut
Tucked away in the hills above Wainui Bay, one of Golden Bay’s many micro bays, is a series of eco-retreats nestled in native bush, known as Golden Bay Hideaway. Little Greenie is completely off-grid and private. It has sweeping views of the coast through floor-to-ceiling glass walls, and an outdoor bathtub. But, the most remarkable thing isn't immediately obvious. This is one of the country's top eco-homes, rated nine stars, which means it’s almost completely self-sustaining. Read more
Little Greenie is completely off-grid and private. BROOK SABIN
Little Greenie is completely off-grid and private. BROOK SABIN
Three more spots to shack up in Golden Bay
Do you and your horse need a holiday? Golden Bay is just the ticket. Hack 'n Stay is a horse-friendly homestead and campground where guests can relax or plod along cross-country trails. Wetland View Park is home to two cosy chalets on the largest remaining wetland in Nelson/Marlborough. And Mohua Motels is a well-appointed accommodation option found on the outskirts of Tākaka where you can rest your weary bones in one of 20 rooms. Read more
Wetland View Park has two chalets. SUPPLIED
Wetland View Park has two chalets. SUPPLIED
Your own island for under $200
Just 30 minutes north of the city, Pepin Island is a magnificent place. The island is owned by a German family who purchased it as a run down farm in 1996. Since then, it's been transformed into one of the country's most picturesque sheep and cattle stations. There are three huts on the 518-hectare island. Rocky Point Hut is nestled in native kānuka on a cliff, with a comfortable bed, basic kitchen, and little mini-bar. Up a little rocky path is an extravagant bathtub overlooking the sea. Read more
Off-the-grid luxury
Magical moments unfold effortlessly during a stay at this property set high on a hill in Motueka Valley. Falcon Brae Villa is an architecturally designed marvel that disappears into the hills beyond thanks to its curved roof and clever colour scheme. But off-the-grid does not mean rustic here; instead you’ll find five-star luxury including four-course gourmet dinners, beautifully appointed suites, a central lounge area with a sunken bar, a media room, a heated outdoor pool and spa, and a well-equipped games den. Read more
The main dining room at Falcon Brae Villa. SUPPLIED
The main dining room at Falcon Brae Villa. SUPPLIED
The secret island hiding in plain sight
Jackett Island is a narrow strip of land just off Motueka. It’s home to only 14 properties, three of which are permanently occupied. This is isolation, but also on the doorstep of the Abel Tasman National Park and the rest of Nelson Tasman. To get there it's a 90-second crossing from the wharf. The Beach Retreat is a converted curtainside trailer. A queen-sized bed makes up the “south wing”, with a comfortable sofa in the middle, and a tidy kitchenette and well-proportioned shower/toilet area. Read more
A magical boot hotel
After launching a successful café, Judy and Steve Richards came up with the concept of a two-storey giant boot hotel. The romantic Jester House is nestled in a chestnut grove, overlooking bush and a little river. There's an outdoor patio — built around a large fire — for nights under the stars. Inside is another large fire in front of the "lovers chair". Where your toes would go, that's the dining area. In the heel, you'll find a bathroom, and up the spiral staircase is the 'bootroom', featuring a large bed overlooking the bush. Read more
Three more unique places to stay
When you’re looking for an unforgettable stay, there's no shortage of options in Nelson. The Tilvery's five brand-new luxury cottages offer private terrace gardens, stunning views and tranquillity in the rural reaches of Upper Moutere. The cute-as-a-button Rabbit Island Huts offer boutique luxury with views of the surrounding wetland. Māpua's The Gates marries eco-chic with rural rustic and Kiwiana interior charm. Read more
With natural and eco-friendly materials, bedtimes are cosy at Maruia-River Retreat. SUPPLIED
With natural and eco-friendly materials, bedtimes are cosy at Maruia-River Retreat. SUPPLIED
A yoga retreat in the middle of nowhere
Cristina and Lasse Holopainen bought Maruia River Retreat in 2018 transforming it from a fishing lodge into a world-class wellbeing destination complete with seven luxury villas and a yoga shala. The property sports proper old-growth beech forest, with boardwalks and tracks taking you to the edge of the river or along trails spilling over with rich undergrowth. There’s a stainless-steel hot tub set into the bush, two beautiful saunas and an outdoor shower to get your blood truly pumping. Read more
The Boot is designed as a romantic retreat for couples. BROOK SABIN
The Boot is designed as a romantic retreat for couples. BROOK SABIN
Rabbit Island Huts are 98 per cent plastic free. APPLEBY HOUSE/RABBIT ISLAND HUTS
Rabbit Island Huts are 98 per cent plastic free. APPLEBY HOUSE/RABBIT ISLAND HUTS
Little Greenie has excellent views. BROOK SABIN
Little Greenie has excellent views. BROOK SABIN
Rocky Hut’s bath is its crowning feature. BROOK SABIN
Rocky Hut’s bath is its crowning feature. BROOK SABIN
A GUIDE TO CAMPGROUNDS
Tōtaranui Campground
Positioned within arm's reach of golden sands and the northern end of the Abel Tasman National Park is Tōtaranui Campground. The site is hugely popular in the warmer months, and even though it has room for up to 850 campers, restrictions apply on the length of stays. Camping on the beach side of the access road is reserved for those walking the Abel Tasman Coast Track. Those staying in one spot have several short walks on-hand as well as the long sheltered stretch at their fingertips for kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming.
Tōtaranui Beach. DAVID T/UNSPLASH
Tōtaranui Beach. DAVID T/UNSPLASH
Kerr Bay Campsite
This DOC campground is situated next to Lake Rotoiti in Nelson Lakes National Park, around an hour north of Nelson. It's open year-round and proves particularly popular with those climbing to the St Arnaud ridgeline thanks to the convenience of hot showers and laundry facilities. There are 15 non-powered tent sites and powered sites to choose from. The lake is a brilliant destination for kayaking, boating and paddleboarding, and you can't leave without a grabbing a photo on the iconic jetty at Kerr Bay.
Pōhara Beach Top 10 Holiday Park
Just nine kilometres from Tākaka village, and with both Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks on its doorstep, this Top 10 Holiday Park is the perfect base to access the greater Tasman region. The pet-friendly camp has room for the whole family across a range of units and cabins, including beachfront powered sites, self-contained motel units and one wheelchair accessible unit. Pōhara Beach is only a few footsteps away, providing ample space to stretch out on your towel.
Pōhara Beach Top 10 Holiday Park. BRADEN FASTIER/NELSON MAIL
Pōhara Beach Top 10 Holiday Park. BRADEN FASTIER/NELSON MAIL
Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park
Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park is located just over four kilometres from Nelson centre and adjacent to the stunning Tāhunanui Beach. The holiday park was first established in 1926 and covers an expansive 54 acres of parkland. The White Zone is closest to the park entrance, offering easy access to the mini golf course and one of three playgrounds on-site, as well as the reception and café. Further options range from classic motel rooms that can sleep five to a spacious three-bedroom residence with room for up to nine people.
Sponsored Picks
Nelson Tasman paradise in the south
Anchorage Abel Tasman. NELSONTASMAN.NZ
Discover jaw-dropping natural beauty, golden beaches, epic outdoor adventures, artisan creativity and foodie sensations at the top of the south.
A Sunday market in Nelson. NELSONTASMAN.NZ
Anchorage Abel Tasman. NELSONTASMAN.NZ
Anchorage Abel Tasman. NELSONTASMAN.NZ
A Sunday market in Nelson. NELSONTASMAN.NZ
A Sunday market in Nelson. NELSONTASMAN.NZ
Visuals: Brook Sabin
Words: Brook Sabin, Stephen Heard, Siobhan Downes, Lorna Thornber, Juliette Sivertsen, Alan Granville, Pamela Wade, Sharon Stephenson, Tessa Patrick, Liz Carlson, Brett Atkinson, Becky Carruthers, Sarah Bennett, Neat Places, Dane & Stacey
Editors: Trupti Biradar, Stephen Heard
Built with Shorthand