Nelson

Where is it?

On the eastern shores of Tasman Bay lies Nelson, a warm, sunny, bustling city, one of the main attractions on the north coast.

What's it like?

Take the long drive up the west coast of the south island and you will go many miles seeing barely a soul. You will pass through small towns and villages that are little more than a blur, tiny specks on the map. The weather on the west coast can be wet and grim; it 'enjoys' almost twice as much rain as anywhere else in the country. Then, almost without warning, you reach Nelson, a place that glows with life and you know that the long drive is behind you, the sun will shine, the road will straighten and spirits dampened by the rain will lift.
The Maori first arrived in the 1500's but by the time Europeans arrived in the 19th century a series of bloody inter tribal conflicts had decimated the native population. The early settlers from Britain struggled in the early years and the Wairau Massacre (22 settlers killed in act of tribal revenge) seemed to mark the end for the embryo community but an influx of German migrants saved the day.
Nelson, due to its sunny climate and gorgeous setting is one of the major tourist destinations in New Zealand. It is easy to see why; there is loads to do and the easy going, lively, slightly bohemian atmosphere is hard to resist.

What to see and do.

Many visitors use Nelson as a base for exploring the scenic splendour of the area. There are four National Parks, Abel Tasman, Kahurangi, Mount Richmond Forest and Nelson Lakes. Each has its own flavour, all are stunning. Perhaps your idea of pleasure is more bacchanalian, in which case head into the wineries. The Marlborough Wineries are not far away, but closer at hand are a number of vineyards and breweries all worth a look.
None of this appeals? Maybe you want to be a bit more active; this is New Zealand after all. Apart from tramping in the national parks there is the usual Kiwi fare of skydive/paraglide/rafting activities. Rock climbing is big in this area and the Marlborough Sounds offer fantastic opportunities for sailing and sea kayaking. All of these activities can be booked from Nelson.
And then there is the town itself…
Architecturally the Christ Church Cathedral is an iconic Nelson image. Begun in the mid 1920's this art deco structure had a staggered and controversial upbringing (largely due to funding problems) before completion in the mid 1960's and eventual consecration in 1972. The Isel Park House & Gardens is a pleasant place to pass an hour or two. Elsewhere is the Queens Gardens, another well-established green space. Next to this is the Suter Gallery a small but well stocked gallery and museum. Amongst other artists whose work is on show are many samples of pieces by Sir M. Tosswill Woollaston a modernist artist with a fantastic name. If in Nelson do not miss the World of Wearable Art and Collectable Cars. This originated in a fashion show that was started to display art that could be worn. This event has grown into an annual, international event that gloriously reflects the full range of artistic talents residing in Nelson. The Museum is a showcase of past winners of this fashion show but also includes a display of historic cars of all sorts from French taxis to ex Presidential Cadillac's.

Eating, Sleeping and Drinking

There are two breweries that serve the town, both run tours and both feed ale into the many bars and restaurants of Nelsons lively late night scene. Obviously the wine on offer is locally made and of world class, as is the food. The seafood is divine; try the shellfish.
Nelson is a hectic place especially in the summer and it is very much on the backpacker trail. This means you need to book in advance to get a bed in one of the many hotels or hostels in the town.