Places to visit in Nelson

With its central location and abundance of attractions, the tourist population at Nelson Airport in New Zealand has grown substantially in recent years. With its natural hot springs, forests, beaches, wineries, art galleries, and museums, Nelson is a great place to visit for those who want to escape the rush and bustle of larger towns.

The airport also facilitates travel to neighboring communities like Motueka and Kaikoura. There are numerous hiking routes, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries in the vicinity, providing lots of entertainment for those who enjoy being outside. Numerous cafes and restaurants in the city offer local delights and the chance to meet intriguing people for those who are interested in more cultural activities.

Considering all there is to do and see in the area, it's no wonder that Nelson Airport sees an increase in visitors yearly. To learn about other thrilling outdoor pursuits in the area, visit getyourguide.com.

Abel Tasman National Park Scenic Cruise

Head out from beautiful Kaiteriteri Beach on this 4-hour scenic cruise through Abel Tasman National Park. See the world-famous Split Apple Rock, New Zealand fur seals, Bark Bay, Tonga Quarry, golden sand beaches, and sparkling turquoise waters along the way.

Explore the coastline and discover secluded beaches and bays from the boat's comfort. Learn about the park's history and what makes it a special place to visit.

Hear commentary about the region and its inhabitants. The cruise is the best way to experience Abel Tasman National Park while encountering some local wildlife.

Nelson: Cable Bay Adventure Park Skywire Ticket

Travel in comfort and convenience to and from the launch site at Cable Bay Adventure Park in Nelson, both ways. If you buy a ticket on Skywire, you may experience the adrenaline rush of flying over the trees at speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour.

The Skywire's departure platform is 400 meters above the park's base café. The journey begins with a 4-kilometer minibus ride through the park. Listen attentively as your guide relates exciting tales and history about the park.

Up to four passengers can ride in tandem in individual racing-style seats equipped with 5-point safety harnesses. The Skywire allows you to freewheel 800 meters in any direction, so you can easily travel in either direction.

Spend approximately 10 minutes on this thrilling adventure, during which you'll cover 700 meters of beautiful landscape in both directions before returning to your starting location.

Nelson: Guided Quad Biking Tour Through Forest and Farmland

Take a guided quad bike tour through the forest, across a New Zealand farm, and up to vantage spots with panoramic views of the Cable Bay shoreline for a thrilling and adventurous experience.

Take in the sights at your own pace, rain or shine. Your knowledgeable guide will begin the adventure with a brief education session and safety briefing. Then, before setting out on your trip, make sure you've had enough time to polish your driving skills.

Farm Forest Rides last 1.5 hours, whereas Bayview Circuit Tours last 2.5 hours. Taking the Farm Forest Ride will take you on a trip suitable for people of varying physical abilities. It will take you through farms, up Skywire Hill, and back through the flats and the riverbanks.

Alternatively, the Bayview Circuit Tour spans 14 kilometers along picturesque forest pathways. Travel down through the farm after passing the Skywire and out to the breathtaking Bayview viewpoint over Delaware Bay. Snacks and drinks will be provided.

Abel Tasman National Park: Sailing and Self-Guided Walk

Enjoy a wonderful day trip by sailing along the beautiful coast of Abel Tasman National Park and then hiking along one of New Zealand's top trails.

Start your day of sailing by taking in the sights at Kaiteriteri Beach. Enjoy the dazzling sunshine, sheltered coves, enchanting islands, and chirping birds as you travel by Split Apple Rock and the frolicking New Zealand fur seal population.

As you sail, your guide will fill you in on Abel Tasman's background and the marine and land life that inhabits the area. Once you reach Anchorage Bay around lunchtime, you can have your packed lunch on the beach or go for a swim before continuing on your self-guided nature walk back to Marahau.

Your journey will take you past picturesque vantage points and native flora to sandy beaches. It usually takes three to four hours to complete a self-guided walk around the National Park coastal track, where you can take in the breathtaking landscape.

Nelson to Mapua: Full-Day Cycling Self-Guided Adventure

You'll get your bikes tuned up and a tour orientation in Nelson to kick off your journey. Ride your bike along Tasman's Great Taste Trail to reach Mapua. Start your journey to Mapua, a small fishing community located south of Nelson City, by following the blue Great Taste Trail signs.

The Nelson Classic Car Museum is worth a detour. Stop by the Honest Lawyer for a pint in a country bar. If you need a break from cycling, there are plenty of local distilleries, vineyards, and breweries to explore.

Take pleasure in the trail's scenic seaside section. Walk around the coasts of Waimea Estuary and Farmland for breathtaking vistas. You'll have to travel across the breathtaking Waimea Swing Bridge to Rabbit Island. Cool yourself in the warm sea waters of Rabbit Island, or splash around in a freshwater swimming hole.

Take a trip across the water on the famous Mapua Ferry. Enjoy the galleries, studios, restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and the Golden Bear Boutique Brewery when you dock at Mapua Wharf.

Dinner on Mapua Wharf is the perfect end to a day of sightseeing. Take the kiwi Journeys shuttle back to Nelson once you're finished.

Nelson: Abel Tasman Cruise-Fly Day Tour

You may take it easy on the shuttle ride from Nelson Airport to Kaiteriteri, the Tasman area's only seaside town. Take a boat ride through Abel Tasman National Park to Totaranui; the trip takes about 90 minutes. Look out for dolphins and seals as you travel.

Enjoy your picnic lunch and the landscape with an hour and a half on the beach at Totaranui, known for its pure, stunning golden sand, clear water, thick forest, and walking routes in all directions.

You can swim, lounge on the beach, stroll in the National Park, or check out the DOC Visitor Centre for some background on the region. The 50-minute shuttle tour from Totaranui to Takaka along the limestone coastline includes a discussion about the history and ecosystem of Golden Bay.

You'll stop at Te Waikoropupu Springs, the most incredible freshwater and cold-water springs in New Zealand. Take pleasure in a 30-minute stroll around the forest that ends at a platform perched halfway over the water at Te Waikoropup Springs. Along the wheelchair-accessible boardwalks are explanatory signs.

Flying back to Nelson over the Abel Tasman coast is a spectacular way to say goodbye to Golden Bay. You'll be given a headset during the flight to communicate with other passengers and the pilot and hear interesting facts about the sites you fly over. You will finish your trip when you reach Nelson Airport.

Cable Bay Adventure Park: Half-Day E-Bike Hire

Spend half a day exploring Cable Bay Adventure Park on your own with the help of a rented full-suspension electric bike. Access our Skywire via the 4x4 road system. Visit the beautiful Bayview overlook and picnic place, 14 km return from the starting point, for a more extended excursion.

The designated mountain bike tracks are also open to e-bike riders. Take advantage of the half-day rental to travel to the Bay view overlook and ride the Skywire with your friends.

Safely learn the bike's controls with a thorough orientation, and perfect your technique in the parking lot before venturing out. When you rent one of our bikes, we also provide helmets at no extra cost.