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Nelson

Best timeNelson is sunny much of the year.
Getting thereNelson Airport has direct flights from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
Main townsNelson, Stoke, Richmond, Mapua

One of the sunniest towns in New Zealand, Nelson is an arts-and-crafts city with a busy Saturday market, beaches on the doorstep and cycle trails into wine and orchard country.

Highlights

  • Nelson Market Saturday market with local food, crafts and art.
  • Tasman’s Great Taste Trail A cycle trail of about 175 km through vineyards, orchards and coast.
  • Tāhunanui Beach A big family-friendly beach a few minutes from town.
  • Centre of New Zealand A short, steep walk to a hilltop marker with views over the city.
  • Galleries and studios Glass, pottery and jewellery studios around town and nearby.

Best time to go

Nelson is sunny much of the year. Summer is busiest; autumn is warm, settled and quieter.

Getting there

Nelson Airport has direct flights from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. It is about two hours’ drive from the Picton ferry.

Main towns

Nelson, Stoke, Richmond, Mapua

From Big Red Directory

Places in Nelson

Places to stay, eat and explore, listed on our sister site.

See all on Big Red →
C
Adventure ActivitiesCycle Nelson
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