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Things to do in Nelson

Walmer is the perfect place from which to explore three national parks as well as the city and surrounding district.  There are vineyards, galleries, cafes, art trails, restaurants, shopping and heritage buildings.  It is an easy five minute walk along the waterfront to four excellent seaside restaurants.  To find out more about the Nelson district please view the Official Nelson Visitor Information website.

Explore the Outdoors

  • Abel Tasman National Park’s golden sand beaches
  • Nelson Lakes National Park’s mountains and lakes
  • Kahurangi National Park’s forest and walking trails
  • Marlborough Sounds kayaking and sailing
  • Mountain biking for a range of abilities

Enjoy the Arts and Crafts

The region is the undisputed creative arts centre in New Zealand.  There are over 300 working artists.  Painters, sculptors, ceramic artists, potters, glass blowers, jewellers and writers draw energy from the spectacular natural environment and each other.  Two highlights are:

Food and Wine

Wine and craft beer enthusiasts will find the cellar doors of passionate winemakers and brewers open and foodies will discover fabulous produce and seafood as they dine among the vines, along the waterfront, in the heart of Nelson City, or you discover secret country cafés or the quaint seaside village of Mapua.

Nelson has a great range of quality restaurants, cafes and bars in the inner city, along the waterfront and at Tahunanui Beach. Nelson’s central business district is home to over 600 retail outlets so make sure you spend some time looking around the tree lined streets and quaint heart of the city.