Welcome to Nelson Airport, a bustling New Zealand regional airport located on the South Island. From untouched forests and rugged mountains to the long stretches of golden beaches, Nelson offers plenty to occupy the most avid of travellers. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to hit the ground running once you’ve landed. Simply hire a car at Nelson Airport and explore the sunny region on your own terms.
Nelson is a creative metropolis, home to the largest community of working artists and craftspeople in the country. With its bustling arts and culture scene, there is no shortage of cultural and contemporary galleries, art studios and markets. One of the city’s most popular galleries lies the World of Wearable Art & Collectable Cars Museum, located just 10 minutes from the city centre, with collections updated twice a year. Get inspired by the award-winning garments exhibited from the annual WOW Awards Show, which is easily accessible from the airport.
Exploring Nelson’s natural beauty
To truly experience the beauty of Nelson, get off the beaten path and explore the plethora of walking and hiking tracks on offer. Perched in the heart of Nelson, the Centre of New Zealand Walk is an easy 1-hour trek with spectacular views over Nelson. If you have a little more time on your hands, just a 2.5-hour drive from Nelson Airport is the Wharariki Beach Walk. Discover all the intriguing caves and steep sand dunes – there is even an option to explore the coast by horse.
If you can’t resist getting a snapshot of a cascading waterfall, then Wainui Falls Track is just over a two-hour drive from Nelson Airport. With a swinging bridge, lush native plants and a spectacular waterfall, the 1.5-hour walk is a popular destination in Abel Tasman National Park. For those with more time on their hands and looking for a challenge, the 3 to 5-day Abel Tasman Coast Track is a hiker’s dream. Take an intimate scenic tour of park’s magnificent rock formations, white sand beaches and local wildlife on foot, or mix things up and kayak or take a water taxi along parts of the trail.
Nelson is the perfect base of operations for adrenaline-inducing activities. For the ultimate white-water rafting experience, pick up a hire car and take the drive out to Murchison for unforgettable kayaking, rafting and jetboating through the Buller Canyon.
Wineries, breweries, dining and more
Nelson’s sunny climate makes for superb vineyard conditions. Boasting some of the finest Sauvignon Blancs, Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs – you’ll want to set aside some time to explore the numerous wineries around. If you’re looking to visit a few vineyards during your visit, be sure to check out the Neudorf Vineyards, Kaimira Estate and the award-winning Woollaston Estates.
If beer is more your style, then Nelson has got you covered. As the craft brewing capital of New Zealand, Nelson Tasman is home to the country’s hops (and one of the top 10 hops producers in the world), with craft breweries of all sizes situated along the Golden Bay. For an introduction to Nelson’s top craft beer, take a trip out to local favourites McCashin’s Brewery, Eddyline Brewery and Sprig and Fern to sample some of the country’s greatest product. Depending on when you visit, you might also be able to catch the MarchFest, Beer Week and New Zealand Cider Festivals.
For the lovers of fine dining, fear not – Nelson has a generous selection of top-notch restaurants. A few popular venues include:
-
Urban Oyster Bar & Eatery - With a constantly evolving menu and a key focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, it’s a combination worth exploring. From their superbly fresh oysters to the generous selection of local craft beer and outstanding wine lists, you’ll be in for a treat.
-
Hopgoods - Considered to be one of Nelson’s best, Hopgoods offers delicious, high-calibre gastronomy. The contemporary European-inspired restaurant is a mouth-watering indulgence. Be sure to finish off your culinary experience with the chocolate mousse.
-
Harry’s Bar - With locally-sourced, Asian-inspired dishes and an extensive cocktail menu, you can’t go wrong. Ostensibly, the red braised pork belly with chilli caramel dressing is a dish everyone’s raving about.
From the superb beaches and lush native walks and trails, to the bustling art scene and expansive culinary offerings, Nelson doesn’t disappoint. Enjoy the beautiful weather on offer and hire a car at Nelson Airport to explore Nelson and its surrounds at your leisure.
