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Things To Do In Nelson

Nelson is a city on the eastern shores of Tasman Bay, and is the economic and cultural centre of the region. Port Nelson is the largest fishing port in Australasia. Fresh fish, scallops, clams and mussels feature on the menus of creative chefs. Nelson winemakers are renowned for aromatic varieties; a perfect match for seafood. Nelson is well kno... Show More

Tourist Information About Nelson

Top Attractions

Spooners Tunnel (One day Self-Guided Cycle Tour)

Spooners Tunnel (One ...

Cycle through the longest disused Rail Tunnel in the southern hemisphere then af ......

Wild North West Mountain to Sea by private helicopter

Wild North West Mount...

A flight of a lifetime covering the north-western tip of the South Island - two ......

Moutere Ebike Wine and Food Spectacular (one day self guided cycle tour)

Moutere Ebike Wine an...

Cycle on an Ebike from Nelson Airport to Mapua along a coastal section of the Gr ......

Nelson is even more beautiful from a helicopter!

Nelson is even more b...

Grab the family or some friends for an awesome mountain adventure where you'll f ......

Abel Tasman Experience with helicopter landing at Awaroa Beach for up to 3 people

Activity LocationAbel Tasman

Depart from our heli-base at Nelson Airport in a private helicopter for up to 3 people. Following the beautiful coastlin ...

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NZ $1440.00 Book Now

Heli-Fish Marlborough Sounds for up to 6 people in a private helicopter

Activity LocationNelson

Flying and fishing - the ultimate experience! Board your private helicopter from our base at Nelson Airport and be whisk ...

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NZ $8750.00 Book Now

Magical Mapua (One Day Self-guided Cycle Tour)

Activity LocationNelson

Cycle from Nelson to Magical Mapua on the Great Taste Trail, one of New Zealand's Great Rides.

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NZ $120 Book Now

Abel Tasman Experience with helicopter landing at Awaroa Beach for up to 6 people

Activity LocationNelson

One of our most popular helicopter tours - and for very good reasons! From our convenient base at Nelson Airport, board ...

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NZ $3125.00 Book Now

Cable Bay Adventure Park

Activity LocationNelson

The Cable Bay Adventure Park is Nelson's adventure playground and located less than 15 minutes north of Nelson’s city ...

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NZ $215.00 Book Now

Best Abel Tasman Day tour

Activity LocationAbel Tasman

A small group personalized 6 hour daytrip, exploring the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park's coastline aboard a comfor ...

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NZ $340 Book Now

Tourist Information About Nelson

Nelson is a city on the eastern shores of Tasman Bay, and is the economic and cultural centre of the region. Port Nelson is the largest fishing port in Australasia. Fresh fish, scallops, clams and mussels feature on the menus of creative chefs. Nelson winemakers are renowned for aromatic varieties; a perfect match for seafood. Nelson is well known for its thriving local arts and crafts scene, Each year, the city hosts events popular with locals and tourists alike, such as the Nelson Arts Festival. Nelson is one of the few New Zealand cities to have its own flag.


Best Attractions and free things to do in Nelson



Heli-Fish Marlborough Sounds

1. Heli-Fish Marlborough Sounds

The Marlborough Sounds' rocky and inaccessible shoreline is impossible to reach unless you're in a helicopter and can land on a reef! You'll be hooked if you combine flying and fishing. Our skilled pilots are also avid anglers, so you'll get the most out of your stay with us. We can pick you up from heli-friendly establishments in the vicinity or drop you off at our heli-base at Nelson Airport!

 
Walk to the Center of New Zealand

2. Walk to the Center of New Zealand

While "The Center of New Zealand" may not appear to be an exciting spot to begin your list of free things to do in Nelson, it is considerably more than what it appears to be. A short upward hike through the forest will lead you to a hilltop with views of Nelson city and the Tasman Bay on one side and the Tasman Mountains on the other. In Nelson, walking to the center of New Zealand is a quick and free activity.

 
Experience the Abel Tasman by Air

3. Experience the Abel Tasman by Air

In the Abel Tasman National Park, visit one of New Zealand's most famous beaches. It's a well-liked tour for good cause! The view from a helicopter is unrivaled, and this is one of the nicest you'll ever see. Avoid the long trip and hike by boarding your private helicopter at Nelson Airport's heli-base and being whisked away on a once-in-a-lifetime flight.

This once in a lifetime flight will leave you wanting to tell the world about your journey!

 
Heli-Picnic

4. Heli-Picnic

Helicopters Nelson is where your adventure begins. At Nelson Airport, board one of the contemporary helicopters for a once-in-a-lifetime flight. The magnificent Abel Tasman, with its golden sand beaches and clear blue ocean. When you arrive in the secluded Kahurangi National Park, you'll be astounded by the terrain, which is so natural and unspoiled. Breathtaking! Relax with a sumptuous picnic by the lake after a short walk to the neighboring waterfall. The tour lasts 3 hours in total. A popular tour for marriage proposals, special birthdays, or surprising family or friends. With the help of Helicopters Nelson, we're making memories.

 
Cable Bay

5. Cable Bay

Cable Bay is located not far from Nelson city so it's perfect for a day trip. The Cable Bay Walkway is a three-hour-and-thirty-minute one-way stroll that takes you through stunning farmland and coastal landscapes. The trek can begin at either Glenduan or Cable Bay.

The Cable Bay Walkway to Glenduan is 8 kilometers (5 miles) long either way, but it is not necessary to do the entire trip. Walking up the steep hill from the beach provides breathtaking views of the verdant hills and turquoise estuary.

 
See the One Ring

6. See the One Ring

If you're a fan of The Lord of the Rings, not only should you visit Jens Hansen – The Ringmaker to see some of the real One Rings used in the movies, but you should also visit some of the 23 Lord of the Rings Locations You Can't Miss in New Zealand. Simply enquire at the counter, and the personnel will typically be delighted to provide additional information.

 
Tahunanui Beach

7. Tahunanui Beach

Who doesn't enjoy relaxing at the beach? Tahunanui Beach is a local favorite, and it's only a 10-minute drive from Nelson's city center. Walking from the city center to the beach saves money on gas and takes about an hour along the lovely Rock Road that follows the shore. Furthermore, it is a fantastic solution for a fun filled day with families.

 
Hike or Cycle the Dun Mountain Trail

8. Hike or Cycle the Dun Mountain Trail

Try the Dun Mountain Trail in Nelson for a more adventurous hike. This well-graded shared biking/walking track winds through the hills and native and pine woodland. Along the route, you'll be able to photograph some spectacular alpine landscapes. The 9.5-kilometer (6-mile) hike takes about three hours each way.

 
Hike in the Grampians Reserve

9. Hike in the Grampians Reserve

We'll add one more trek to your bucket list because hiking and walking are always dependable free activities to do on any day. The Grampians Reserve is the mountain range that forms Nelson's backdrop. There are a variety of walks to choose from, ranging in length from one to three hours. Expect reasonably challenging mountain hikes through native and exotic forests.

 
Stroll Along the Maitai River

10. Stroll Along the Maitai River

In Nelson, there is an abundance of green land. The Maitai River is a great area for a quick walk or run, and it's close to the city's shops and cafes. Near town, the 8-kilometer (5-mile) riverwalk is paved, but as you travel further out, it turns gravel.

It's lovely and lush, and it doesn't take long to forget you're in the city.

There are several swimming holes along the way, including Black Hole, Dennes Hole, and Sunday Hole, where you may cool yourself in the summer.

 


Top attractions in Nelson



Wild North West Mountain Helicopter Ride - Take a thrilling helicopter ride over the Wild North West Mountains and experience the beauty of Nelson from a whole new perspective. You'll fly over rugged peaks, lush forests, sparkling lakes, and have a chance to see the region's unique wildlife.

Heli-Fish - If you're an angler, Heli-Fishing is the perfect way to experience the best fishing in Nelson. Take a helicopter to a remote location, where you'll cast your line in some of the most pristine waters in the region and catch some of the freshest fish around.

Abel Tasman Helicopter Experience - Take a scenic helicopter ride over the Abel Tasman National Park and see the beautiful landscapes, beaches, and lagoons that this region is known for. You will have the chance to see the diverse marine life and the different colours of the water.

Nelson Heli Tour - Enjoy a comprehensive tour of Nelson by helicopter and see the many attractions and landmarks that make this region so special. From the picturesque beaches to the rugged peaks, this tour will give you a complete overview of the area and its natural beauty.



The best things to do with kids and children’s activities in Nelson



Wild North West Mountain Helicopter Ride: Take your kids on an adventure of a lifetime with a breathtaking helicopter ride over the stunning Wild North West Mountains. Marvel at the majestic peaks, glaciers and alpine landscapes as you soar through the skies.

Heli-Fish - If you're an angler, Heli-Fishing is the perfect way to experience the best fishing in Nelson. Take a helicopter to a remote location, where you'll cast your line in some of the most pristine waters in the region and catch some of the freshest fish around.

Abel Tasman Helicopter Experience - Take a scenic helicopter ride over the Abel Tasman National Park and see the beautiful landscapes, beaches, and lagoons that this region is known for. You will have the chance to see the diverse marine life and the different colours of the water.

Nelson Heli Tour - Enjoy a comprehensive tour of Nelson by helicopter and see the many attractions and landmarks that make this region so special. From the picturesque beaches to the rugged peaks, this tour will give you a complete overview of the area and its natural beauty.


The best things to do near Nelson



Scenic Hot Air Balloon Flight: Take a hot air balloon ride over the beautiful landscape of Canterbury and enjoy the stunning views of the region from above. You'll get to see the beautiful mountains, lakes, and valleys of the region and see the beautiful colors of the sunrise or sunset.

Aoraki/ Mt Cook scenic flights: This is a spectacular way to see the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, home to New Zealand's highest mountain. You'll fly over rugged mountains, glaciers, and alpine meadows and get an unforgettable view of Aoraki/Mt Cook.

Guided Wildlife Kayaking: This is a unique way to explore the stunning coastal region of Canterbury by kayak. You'll have the opportunity to see the local wildlife and explore the beautiful coastal scenery of the region.

Skydiving Kiwis Ōtautahi: Experience the thrill of skydiving over the beautiful landscapes of Canterbury. You'll get an incredible view of the region as you freefall and then enjoy a peaceful parachute ride back to the ground.

Evening Penguin Safari: This is a unique opportunity to see the little penguins coming ashore to their nesting colonies. You will go on a guided tour, watch them waddle up the beach and into their burrows and learn about the conservation efforts to protect them. It's a great way to learn about these adorable birds and see them in their natural habitat.