20 incredible things to do in Nelson for a trip to remember

We arrived in Nelson with a hotel booking for three days. We ended up staying for over two weeks because each day we would find yet another incredible thing to do in the area! The city itself is lovely, with so many amazing cafes and restaurants, as well as very friendly locals, which makes a stay here all the more special.

However, it’s the surrounding area that will really blow you away, with breathtaking beaches, secret glow worm colonies, New Zealand’s most incredible cave, epic hiking trails and plenty of great wineries.

We’re sharing all the best things to do in and around Nelson to help you plan the perfect trip.

Cable Bay, Nelson

Things to do in Nelson

1. Explore the incredible Split Apple Rock Beach

Whilst there are beaches closer to Nelson, Split Apple Rock is special and well worth driving a little further to reach.

Not only is the beach utterly fabulous, with a long sweep of golden sand backed by dense forest, it also has a curious rock formation.

Split Apple Rock - Things to do in Nelson

Split Apple Rock is cleaved almost in half, and sits just off shore, making it a very popular spot with photographers.

At low tide you’ll also find some picturesque sea caves to explore and can rock hop over to the next beach along, which is tiny, but very picturesque.

We have all the details on visiting Split Apple Rock, including the best time for photography in this guide.

Things to do in Nelson - Split Apple Rock
Exploring the caves around Split Apple Rock

2. Marvel at the secret glow worm colony

If you’re looking for an adventure after dark then look no further than the secret glow worm colony at Ruby Bay.

Glow worms line the creek and cliff walls like strings of glittering Christmas lights, and despite how magical it is, it remains something of a locals secret and you’re very unlikely to share the experience with anyone else.

Glow Worms near Nelson

The downside is that though the walk is very short, it’s not the easiest track and has a few slippery sections with no handrails, so you’ll need to watch your step carefully, particularly on the descent.

Assuming this doesn’t put you off then you’ll want to park on Brabant Drive (you can find the co-ordinates by clicking here) and head down the walking track which leads into the bush.

The glow worms start fairly early on and continue most of the way down to the end of the trail (approximately 400m), at which point you’ll turn around and do it all over again.

Since visiting the Ruby Bay, I read an article here with a couple of other options for glow worms in Nelson which sound easier than Ruby Bay, so it’s worth considering those too.

Seeing glow worms in nelson

3. Reach epic views on the Mount Robert Circuit

The views from the top of the Mount Robert Circuit are jaw-dropping. In fact the views are spectacular from around 10 minutes into the trail, looking out over the glorious Lake Rotoiti and the St Arnaud Range.

The ridge line at the top even reminded us a little of our beloved Kepler Track, which remains one of the best walks we’ve ever done!

Mount Robert Circuit - The best things to do in Nelson

The circuit is just over 9km and though it does involve a fairy steep climb, the track is very well maintained, which makes it one of the easier walks to reach such fabulous views.

We have more details on the trail in this guide.

The views from the top of Mount Robert
Sunset from Mount Robert

4. Admire the spectacular Whisky Falls

Whisky Falls is a beautiful waterfall in a dramatic setting. It’s surrounded by mossy walls, giant boulders and countless cascades.

It’s one of those spots that draws you in and you’d probably never leave if it weren’t for the ever persistent sandflies. Don’t let them put you off though because a visit to the falls is more than worth it.

Visiting Whiskey Falls in Nelson

Depending on how active you’re feeling, you can either hike to the falls along an easy 10.6km walking trail, or catch a scenic boat ride across the lake instead.

We opted to walk, but we have all the details on both options in this post.

The walk to Whiskey Falls, Nelson

5. Enjoy a picnic in the Japanese garden

When you’re ready for a break from constant exploring, head to the peaceful Miyazu Gardens and settle down for a picnic in the pretty surrounds.

There are plenty of spots to lay out a blanket and relax in the sunshine. If you happen to be visiting Nelson in spring, you’ll be in for a treat.

Visit the Japanese Garden - Things to do in Nelson

The garden has some gorgeous cherry blossom trees as well as a beautiful wisteria display, and the air is filled with their wonderful fragrance.

The garden is free to visit and located a 10 minute drive from the city centre.

The bridge in the Japanese Garden, Nelson
Cherry Blossom in the Japanese Garden in Nelson

6. Have a beach barbie at Rabbit Island

Rabbit Island (Moturoa) is a long sweeping stretch of golden sand with relatively calm water - perfect for an afternoon dip.

Things to do in Nelson - A bbq in Rabbit Island

Do as the locals do and bring supplies so you can use the free BBQs, which sit on the grassy area just behind the beach. If you don’t have a blanket to lay out on the sand, there are several picnic benches with lovely views out to sea.

It’s also a great place to go for a long leisurely stroll and soak up the fresh sea air. It might not be as spectacular as some of the Abel Tasman beaches, but it has a lovely vibe and is less than a 20 minute drive from the city.

The bbq at Rabbit Island
The beach in Rabbit Island

7. Delight in wine tasting with a view

If you want to mix great local wine with a spectacular view then head to Flaxmore Vineyards.

Not only are the wines fantastic and the welcome warm, but you can enjoy it all looking out over the glorious snow-capped Mount Arthur.

Wine tasting at Flaxmore Vineyard - Things to do in Nelson

It’s definitely one of the most wonderful winery views we’ve experienced. Tastings are free of charge and it’s a really relaxed friendly atmosphere. We loved all the wines we tried and couldn’t resist leaving with several bottles.

After sampling the wines, you can then head for a short stroll around the vineyard and make the most of those beautiful mountain views.

At time of writing the cellar door is open on weekends and then on weekdays by appointment only.

The vines at Flaxmore Estate in Nelson
The loungers at the vineyard in Nelson

8. Climb to a sensational viewpoint over Cable Bay

The vista over Cable Bay from the hill top is simply sensational and it’s a relatively short climb at just 1.2km each way. However, it’s short for a reason - it goes straight up!

It’s basically a goat track, which climbs directly up the hill making quick work of the short distance.

The good news is that as the walk doesn’t take long, it’s a great place to watch the sunrise or sunset.

We opted for sunset, which sets directly over the sea. It’s a beautiful sight and the colour wrapped right the way around to Cable Bay itself, bathing it in soft pink light.

Sunrise would be over the bay, and possibly even more spectacular if you don’t mind the early start.

Sunset over Cable Bay

9. Catch a sunset at the local beach

Although we prefer to head to the more pristine beaches of Abel Tasman during the day, come evening we love the calm that descends on Tahunanui Beach, right by the city.

Sunset at Tahunanui Beach - Things to do in Nelson

It’s incredibly picturesque at sunset and heading down to the western end of the beach feels quite secluded, the perfect place to watch as the sun slowly sinks into the sea.

It would make a nice spot to come with a picnic and you’ll often find locals sharing a glass of wine on the sand, making the most of the last light of the day.

Tahunaunui Beach iN nelson

10. Go wild swimming in pristine emerald water

Although there are some lovely swimming spots closer to Nelson, for true wow factor, heading an hour out the city to Pelorus Bridge is the way to go.

The water is sensational, both crystal clear and emerald at the same time - unless you go after heavy rain like we did and the water has lost its clarity - so expect it to be much more beautiful than our photos.

Wild swimming at Pelorus Bridge

If the scenery look vaguely familiar, it might be because you’ve seen it in a movie! The Pelorus River was used in one of the iconic scenes in The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, when the dwarves travel down the river in barrels.

You’ll quickly see why they picked this gorgeous spot, with the phenomenal water colour and dramatic cliffs.

There are various very easy to access swimming spots, as well as several hiking trails, including some great waterfalls. For more details check out our Pelorus Bridge post.

The waterfall in Pelorus Bridge, Nelson

11. Stroll the beautiful Queens Gardens

Once described as ‘something worse than an eyesore’ the Queens Gardens are now the perfect place to head for a leisurely stroll.

On what used to be a swamp you’ll now find a gorgeous garden, with water features, dainty bridges and plenty of birdsong.

Things to do in Nelson - The Queens Gardens

The gardens aren’t huge, but they’re incredibly picturesque, with lots of shady spots to stop and relax. I’ve been a few times and the garden is always beautiful, but if you’re lucky enough to visit in spring, it’s extra special, with the emergence of the glorious cherry blossoms.

The gardens are free of charge and open year round. Art lovers can also visit The Suter Art Gallery which is located in the gardens.

The lake at the Queens Gardens
The cherry blossom at Queens Gardens

12. Take a dip with the locals at the Black Hole

If you want to cool off but prefer wild swimming holes to the beach, then do as the locals do and head to the Black Hole.

It might not sound tempting, but it’s a pretty swimming spot and there’s plenty of room to spread out.

The walk swimming spot at Black Hole

If you’re feeling adventurous there’s a rope swing which was getting good use when we visited. The walk to get to the Black Hole starts at Hanby Park road and takes just five minutes along a well maintained track.

The only downside to this spot is that due to its very central location and ease of access, it can get very busy. If it’s a hot day and you’re hoping for a tranquil dip, I would go early in the morning.

The swimming spot near Nelson

13. Wander amongst the gorgeous pastel coloured houses of South Street

A short stroll down South Street is a must, it’s New Zealand’s oldest fully preserved street and the pastel coloured buildings are a real delight.

It felt like we’d left the city behind and wandered into a charming little village, complete with old fashioned lanterns, gorgeous trellises and blooming planter boxes.

Things to do in Nelson - South Street houses

There are a few little plaques to give you some history, but a visit here is more about the aesthetics.

You’ll find South Street a 10 minute walk from the city centre and whilst it doesn’t take long to see the houses, it’s well worth the diversion.

The picturesque houses on South Street, Nelson

14. Prepare to be awestruck by New Zealand’s most jaw-dropping cave

If Disney were to create a fairytale cave full of mythical creatures, I’m sure it would look something like Rawhiti.

I’ve always loved caves and visited so many around the world, but I have never seen anything like it!

Rawhiti Cave - Things to do in Nelson

The extraordinary cave is home to thousands of stalactites, which grow outwards towards the sunlight due to a phenomenon known as phytokarst.

Not only are the stalactites unusual in shape, but they’re also unusual in colour, with many being a salmon pink. It’s the sort of place that leaves you slack jawed and staring in wonder.

The walk is 1.7km each way and steep in places - it can also be quite slippery when wet. We have full details on the trail and conditions, as well as more on the cave itself in this post.

Rawhiti Cave in Nelson
The rock formations at Rawhiti Cave

15. Go Indiana Jones at The Grove

Walking through the wild jungle and crazy rock formations of The Grove feels like stepping onto the set of Indiana Jones!

You feel like you’re deep in the forest, yet you never need to leave the well maintained path, and the walk is very easy. It’s hard to believe how atmospheric a 650m walk can be!

The canyon at the Grove

You’ll be strolling in-between huge boulders covered in twisting vines, past swaying nikau palms and giant gnarled tree roots. In fact, it reminded me of some of the scenery along the Heaphy Track, but requiring far less effort to reach!

It’s located 1.5 hours from Nelson, in the Golden Bay area, where there are several other great attractions very close by which we mention in this post. It’s well worth the day trip.

Walking through the Grove in Nelson
Walking through the Grove in Nelson

16. Visit the picturesque Cathedral

The Christ Church Cathedral is surrounded by beautiful trees and plants which will catch your eye before you even set foot through the door.

Once inside you’re treated to several elaborate stained glass windows, most memorable of which is the Rose Window, which I could still visualise from my first trip to Nelson 15 years ago.

You’re free to wander around at your leisure between 8:30am-6pm.

The cathedral in Nelson
The stained glass windows in the cathedral

It’s particularly atmospheric if you happen to visit when the organ practice is happening.

Visiting the cathedral is free of charge, but donations are very welcome.

The cathedral in Nelson

17. Relax at the serene underwater river

Walking through the spectacular mossy forest to the Crystal Pool feels like stepping into an enchanted land. It’s just a short 800m return walk, yet it feels a world away.

The Riwaka Resurgence is a sacred Maori site, so swimming in the water is not an option, but simply sitting beside it is enough. It’s hard to put your finger on it, but there’s a really special feeling to this spot, an aura of calm and serenity.

Riwaka Resurgence in Nelson - Things to do in Nelson

As you walk through the forest you’ll first come to a small waterfall, just a few steps off the main track. You then head up a couple of stairs to a lookout point over the river before continuing on to the pool.

Heading down the wooden staircase will take you to the water’s edge. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric spot and somewhere I could sit for hours. The entire walk is less than 10 minutes each way.

The scenery at the Riwaka Resurgence
The waterfall at Riwaka Resurgence

The turn off to the Riwaka Resurgence is just before Takaka Hill, don’t miss it or you’ll get stuck with no turn around point for quite some time.


18. Kick back at one of New Zealand’s most fabulous beaches

Kaiteriteri Beach is a 50 minute drive from Nelson, but the second you set eyes on the crescent of golden sand, you’ll know it was worth the drive.

It’s absolutely jaw-dropping, with calm turquoise water which is perfect for swimming.

The beautiful views at Kaiteriteri

The beach has a dramatic feel with forested headlands that reminded me of the karsts in Southeast Asia. We’d seen a lot of beautiful New Zealand beaches by this point and it still took my breath away.

It’s a wonderful place to simply sit and relax, but if you’re feeling energetic, you can also hire kayaks and paddle about the bay.

The headlands at Kaiteriteri

19. Learn some local history at the regional museum

If you’d like to absorb a little local history then head to New Zealand’s oldest museum, the Nelson Provincial Museum. You’ll learn about the region’s history from Maori times to early settlers, and though the museum is small, there’s a good mix of exhibits.

Exploring the Nelson Museum

The upstairs is reserved for temporary exhibitions, it was the popular Dinosaur Evolution when I visited which was really good, and popular with adults and children alike.

The museum is $5 for adults unless you’re a resident of the area in which case it’s free.

The dinosaur exhibit at the Nelson Museum

20. Walk to the Centre of New Zealand

Ok, so science has proved this isn’t quite the Centre of New Zealand, but it’s still a lovely trail that offers a fabulous view over Nelson, as well as the rolling green hills of the Maitai Valley and glittering Tasman Sea.

Not bad for a mere 2km return walk.

The views over the Maitai Valley from the centre of New Zealand

The track is very well maintained and though it is predominantly uphill, it’s an easy walk that only takes around 15 minutes.

We headed up for sunset, which was a lovely time to be up there. You can relax and watch the golden glow from the seating area, unless you get unlucky like us and it’s a little too overcast!

The centre of New Zealand lookout, Nelson

Where to stay in Nelson

Delorenzo's Studio Apartments

We loved these apartments so much, we’ve stayed there three times. In terms of quality and value for money they are pretty hard to beat. We stayed in a couple of different rooms, but the Poolside Studio Spa Shower & Bath were by far the best (more modern and better layout). They have a small but excellent kitchenette, spa bath and even a washing machine and dryer. It’s also just a short walk to the city centre.

You can check out the reviews and prices on Booking.com by clicking below:

Booking.com

Getting to Nelson

Nelson is located at the top of the South Island, a 1.5 hour drive from Picton and the ferry to the North Island. If you’re heading west, it’s 3.5 hours from Greymouth and 3 hours 15 to Kaikoura if you’re heading east.