The 14 BEST things to do in Nelson, New Zealand

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Nelson, New Zealand!

Welcome to Nelson, New Zealand – the land of kiwis, sheep, and some of the most breathtaking natural beauty you’ll ever lay your eyes on. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer looking for your next thrill or a laid-back traveler just looking to relax and unwind, Nelson has something for everyone.

Atmosphere / Vibes

Placid Lake Near Green Mountains Under White Clouds in Nelson, New Zealand.
Photo by Lutushe MWW
Nelson is a small city with a big heart and an even bigger sense of community. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere here is laid-back and relaxed. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.

Weather throughout the year

Two Brown Lama
Photo by josiah farrow
One of the best things about Nelson is its consistently mild weather. With an average high of 22°C (71°F) in the summer and an average low of 9°C (48°F) in the winter, it’s the perfect place to visit year-round. And with more than 2,400 hours of sunshine per year, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to soak up the rays and enjoy the great outdoors.

Why Nelson, New Zealand is the best place to be

Interior of spacious room with huge windows behind curtains and comfortable furniture against TV set in Nelson, New Zealand.
Photo by Max Vakhtbovych
Nelson is a place where you can truly be yourself and let your hair down. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, water sports, or just soaking up the beauty of the surrounding landscape, there’s something here for everyone. Plus, with a thriving arts and culture scene, you’ll never be at a loss for things to do.

Cost of Travel

Empty photo frame on desk decorated with green plants in Nelson, New Zealand.
Photo by Ann poan
While it’s not the cheapest destination in New Zealand, Nelson is still relatively affordable compared to other popular tourist destinations. And with so much to see and do, it’s well worth the investment.

Top 14 best things to do in Nelson, New Zealand

White Llama on Green Grass in Nelson, New Zealand.
Photo by josiah farrow
  1. Go hiking in the Abel Tasman National Park
  2. Take a scenic drive along the Great Taste Trail
  3. Relax on the golden sands of Tahunanui Beach
  4. Go mountain biking in the Nelson Lakes National Park
  5. Take a kayak tour of the Abel Tasman National Park
  6. Explore the vibrant Nelson Saturday Market
  7. Visit the World of Wearable Art and Classic Cars Museum
  8. Go wine tasting at one of the many local wineries
  9. Take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscape
  10. Visit the Nelson Art Gallery and check out the local art scene
  11. Go on a brewery tour and sample some of the local craft beer
  12. Take a stroll through the Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre
  13. Explore the historic town of Motueka
  14. Go sea kayaking in the Marlborough Sounds

Conclusion

Person with keys for real estate
Photo by Oleksandr Pidvalnyi
Nelson, New Zealand is a place like no other – a place where you can reconnect with nature, unwind, and just be yourself. With its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and endless activities to choose from, it’s the perfect place for a memorable vacation. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the magic of Nelson for yourself!


Have you thought about staying in Nelson for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Nelson

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in New Zealand, such as Queenstown, Rotorua or Christchurch.