Nelson (Abel Tasman National Park area)

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
25/08/2025
Serene coastal beach with golden sand and green waters, bordered by dense forest and clear skies.
Donovan Kelly, Pexels

Nelson and the Abel Tasman National Park area offer a diverse blend of golden sand beaches, lush native forests, and rugged mountains, providing opportunities for both tranquil relaxation and active adventures. The region is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and rich cultural experiences.

Nelson fosters a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with various local events and markets like the Saturday Nelson Market encouraging community interaction. For travelers, social hostels in Nelson provide communal spaces, organized activities such as pub crawls and game nights, and are ideal for meeting other tourists and backpackers.

Top 5 Things to do in Nelson (Abel Tasman National Park area)

Visitors can immerse themselves in coastal adventures, vibrant local markets, and unique cultural attractions.

1. Hiking the Abel Tasman Coast Track & Water Taxi

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of New Zealand's famous multi-day walks, winding through lush native forests and alongside pristine golden sand beaches. While the full track spans 60 kilometres, many choose to experience shorter sections as day trips, utilizing convenient water taxi services for drop-offs and pick-ups at various points along the coast. It is a fantastic way to discover hidden coves, enjoy stunning coastal views, and listen to the revived birdsong resulting from conservation efforts. A popular detour includes a refreshing slide into the natural rock pools at Cleopatra's Pools.

Cost: Water taxi fares for one-way trips vary by distance, typically starting from NZ$43-58 per adult. Multi-day walking requires booking Department of Conservation (DOC) huts or campsites, which incur additional fees.

Transport: From Nelson, shuttle buses or coaches provide transport to the park's main gateways like Marahau or Kaiteriteri, with fares ranging from approximately NZ$20-27 and travel times between 1 hour 17 minutes and 2 hours 43 minutes. Taxis are also an option, with an estimated cost of NZ$180-220 for a one-way trip to Apple Tree Bay. Self-driving to the park's entry points is common, usually taking about an hour.

2. Sea Kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park

Exploring Abel Tasman National Park by sea kayak is an unparalleled experience, offering a unique perspective of its sheltered coves, distinctive granite coastline, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Paddlers can navigate through hidden arches, discover secluded beaches, and observe marine wildlife such as fur seals and occasional dolphins. Whether opting for a relaxed self-guided rental or a guided tour with a local expert, kayaking provides an intimate connection with the park's natural beauty. Many trips depart from Marahau.

Cost: Freedom kayak rentals typically start from around NZ$110 for a full day and NZ$160 for two days. Guided tours, which often include equipment and an environmental access fee, can range from approximately NZ$135 for a day trip to higher prices for multi-day excursions.

Transport: Access to kayaking departure points, primarily Marahau, is the same as for hiking. Buses from Nelson cost NZ$20-27 (1-3 hours), taxis are around NZ$180-220, or self-drive.

3. Visit the Nelson Market

The Nelson Market is a beloved Saturday morning institution in Montgomery Square, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings. It provides an excellent opportunity to experience the local creative community, featuring high-quality Nelson produce, unique arts and crafts, and a wide array of gourmet foods. It is an ideal spot to enjoy a coffee or a delicious meal while browsing for handmade gifts or souvenirs. A smaller Nelson Farmers Market also operates on Wednesdays, focusing on fresh, local, and seasonal produce.

Cost: Entry to the market is free. The cost depends on purchases made.

Transport: Located in the heart of Nelson City, the market is easily accessible by walking from most central accommodations.

4. Explore the World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum

This distinctive museum offers a fascinating blend of art and automotive history. It showcases an incredible collection of award-winning garments from the internationally renowned World of WearableArt (WOW) Awards, with exhibitions changing regularly to feature new creative masterpieces. Alongside this, visitors can admire over 50 meticulously maintained classic cars and motorbikes, reflecting technological advancements and design trends through the decades. It provides a unique visual feast that appeals to a wide range of interests.

Cost: Admission is NZ$24 for adults, NZ$10 for children aged 5-14, and NZ$18 for students and seniors (65+). Children under 5 enter free.

Transport: The museum is situated on Quarantine Road, a short drive from central Nelson. Public transport options are limited, so a taxi or ride-share service would be the most convenient, with estimated taxi costs from central Nelson likely around NZ$20-30 depending on the exact distance and number of passengers.

5. Craft Beer and Winery Tour

Nelson Tasman is a hub for New Zealand's craft beer and wine industries, boasting an excellent climate for hop and grape cultivation. Embarking on a tour allows visitors to explore local breweries and wineries, learning about the production process from knowledgeable guides. Tastings offer the chance to sample a variety of craft beers, ciders, and exquisite local wines. Many tours also include visits to historic pubs or scenic stops, providing a relaxed and enjoyable way to experience the region's culinary delights.

Cost: A guided brewery tour can cost around NZ$30 for an hour. Self-guided cycling beer tours, including bike hire, map, and one tasting, are approximately NZ$99, with an e-bike upgrade costing an additional NZ$50. Guided wine and craft beer tours typically start around NZ$219 per person, usually including tastings but with lunch and additional drinks at extra cost.

Transport: Many guided tours offer convenient pick-up and drop-off from Nelson city accommodations. For self-guided cycling tours, rental depots are available, some located near Nelson Airport. Taxis can be used for direct transport to specific breweries or wineries, with fares varying based on distance.

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