Nelson, Motueka & The Abel Tasman
Nelson is the sunshine capital of New Zealand and the region is blessed with a Mediterranean climate. Winters are cooler, but we only get snow on the surrounding mountains.
The Nelson City area offers many opportunities for leisure activities: walking along the banks of the picturesque Maitai River, and catching a glimpse of our native birds, or swimming in the river. Tahunanui Beach is a must; it's very safe for swimming or gentle strolling along the sandy beach.
As well as the usual attractions of museums and art galleries Nelson has an outstanding Saturday market which features an eclectic range of goods as well as locally produced crafts and produce.
There are many different cafés of an ethnic nature for you to sample, and New Zealand's fine wines complete a memorable experience. All tastes are catered for - Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Thai, Vietnamese, Italian, Turkish, etc.
For those wanting a laid back holiday the Nelson area offers many opportunities to unwind, relax and feel the sand between your toes as far away from the madding crowd as you want to be.
For the more adventurous the region offers many opportunities for outdoor activities. Nelson is the gateway to the Abel Tasman, the Nelson Lakes and the Kahurangi National Parks.
There are short day trips and more extended adventures available which include: bush walking and tramping trips, kayaking, rock climbing and sailing.
Keen fishers are well catered for throughout the region as there are several superb rivers of international standing for trout fishing within easy driving distance. A licence is required but the costs are very reasonable.
Sea fishers have the choice of surf casting or going out on charter vessels, some of which are equipped for scuba diving, and of course sea going yachts and motor boats can be hired.
The hills and mountains surrounding Nelson are home to introduced deer, chamois, thar and wild boar, and hunting trips can be arranged. For these a good level of fitness is required.
"We have discovered the perfect hideaway and the song of the tui"
Linda and Geoff McKee, Australia.