The perfect weekend break in Nelson City: Explore, eat, shop, stay & play
Discover our guide to exploring, eating, shopping, staying and playing in Nelson City.
N elson City or Whakatū is nestled in the centre of New Zealand on the sunny northern coast of the South Island. It’s just a short drive away from mountain ranges, pristine golden beaches and three of NZ’s most beautiful national parks. The Nelson Tasman region attracts visitors from near and far to discover the stunning natural landscapes, vibrant arts and artisans and extraordinary food and drink on offer here, but the city itself also warrants exploring too. It’s got a charming and walkable city centre packed with delicious dining, boutique shops, art galleries, friendly locals and near constant sunshine. We reckon you’d be hard pressed to find a better place to spend a weekend exploring, eating, drinking and shopping.
EXPLORE
Whether you’re into art, culture, history, nature, food or wine, you’ll find it all within walkable distance here. Learn the intriguing history of the South Island’s oldest European settlement on a guided heritage walking tour or step back in time and experience what life was like in Nelson during the 1800s at Founders Heritage Park. This charming replica village features a hop and beer museum, an explorable Bristol Fighter Plane and a working railway. If you don’t fancy walking, grab an e-bike and see the city’s famous street art for yourself. Don’t miss the incredible Aotearoa Mural on Wakefield Quay or the urban jungle at the top of Trafalgar Street. To explore more of Nelson’s art pop into the Suter Art Gallery, one of New Zealand’s oldest and most iconic galleries, established over 120 years ago. Then walk 10 minutes down the road to Parker Gallery, which showcases a range of one-off original art pieces. To see the greener side of the city, take the short trip out to the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary and within minutes you’ll be surrounded by waterfalls, wildlife and native bush. Or get on the water and go for a sunset sail, paddleboarding adventure, or guided kayaking trip in the clear blue waters of Nelson Haven, Boulder Bank and Haulashore Island. You can even venture up the Maitai River by paddleboard for a riverside lunch in the city.
EAT
Like food, wine and beer? You’re going to love Nelson City. The Urban Oyster Bar & Eatery is right in the middle of town, serving up simple but elegant local cuisine in relaxed surroundings. Try the oysters and the sashimi and thank us later. Just up the road hiding down a side street, you’ll find locally brewed beer and vintage vibes at the iconic Workshop Brewery. Nearby, there’s a charming courtyard with live music at Deville Cafe. Find your tappy place at The Free House, a quirky converted church that now boasts an ever changing craft beer menu and is NZ’s first carbon positive bar. Or for sophisticated tapas and a gorgeous wine list, visit Arden on Hardy Street. If you’re after something stronger, drop by Kismet, a speakeasy style whiskey and cocktail bar that specialises in all things barrel aged. For dinner with views of Tasman Bay and Nelson Haven head along to Wakefield Quay, and watch the sunset over the sea while eating fresh seafood at The Boat Shed.
SHOP
There’s just something about Nelson Tasman that attracts creative people and artists, which explains why the streets here are brimming with boutique stores filled with the work of talented local makers. The Little Beehive is a co-op store started by two local creatives that gives the regions makers a place to showcase their work - from gifts and skincare to art and homewares. Lord of The Rings fans shouldn’t miss Jens Hansen, makers of the One Ring from the films (in collaboration with Sauron of course). Louise Douglas is another mustvisit, where you’ll find locally made and designed jewellery inspired by New Zealand’s natural environment. The Nelson Market is on every Saturday in Montgomery Square, and features food and drink, produce, clothing, homewares and art by local makers and farmers. It’s one of New Zealand’s oldest artisan markets and we think it’d be fair to call it one of the best. Palm Boutique is Nelson’s favourite fashion boutique, stocking a curated collection of New Zealand’s best designer clothing and a limited selection of international designers.
Stay
The locally owned and operated Trailways Hotel is a smart, modern option, thanks to its super central location a few minutes’ walk away from Nelson’s city centre on the banks of the Maitai river. Lovers of history should consider a night at Wakefield Quay House, a luxury B&B in a grand century-old villa on Nelson’s waterfront. Spend your evenings looking out over the harbour while the sun sets and enjoying a complimentary drink with your hosts and other guests. If you’re looking for somewhere all to yourself, book a night at Sojourn Cottage on South Street. This charming renovated home is located minutes away from town on New Zealand’s oldest fully preserved Victorian heritage street.
Nelson distills all the best bits of New Zealand into one location - incredible nature, friendly people, delicious cuisine, colourful history and breathtaking scenery. Visit www.nelsontasman.nz to start planning your next trip.