Things to do in Nelson

Activities, attractions and tours

Nelson - Tasman featuring rainforest
Nelson
Nelson
Nelson
Nelson

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What to do in Nelson

Popular places to visit

Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral

After visiting Christ Church Cathedral, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Nelson. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Christ Church Cathedral

Trafalgar Park

Catch an event at Trafalgar Park during your trip to Nelson. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Trafalgar Park

Nelson Hospital

Though Nelson Hospital might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Nelson while you are here.

Nelson Hospital

Nelson Market

You can search for that perfect souvenir at Nelson Market during your trip to Nelson. Wander around the parks or enjoy the area's cafes.

Nelson Market

World of Wearable Art and Collectable Cars

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in World of Wearable Art and Collectable Cars in Nelson. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

World of Wearable Art and Collectable Cars

Queens Gardens

Explore the great outdoors at Queens Gardens, a lovely green space in Nelson. Wander the lakeside or discover the area's volcano viewpoints.

Queens Gardens

Nelson College

Enjoy the collegiate vibe at Nelson College during your stay in Nelson. Visit the spas in this walkable area, or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Nelson College

Nelson Provincial Museum

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Nelson Provincial Museum during your trip to Nelson. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Nelson Provincial Museum

Centre of New Zealand Monument

You can find out about the history of Nelson with a trip to Centre of New Zealand Monument. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Centre of New Zealand Monument

Areas of Nelson

Nelson - Tasman featuring rainforest

Nelson City Centre

Nelson City Centre is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Nelson Provincial Museum and Nelson Market.

Nelson City Centre
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Tahunanui

Tahunanui is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Tahunanui Beach Reserve and Natureland Zoo while you're in town.

Tahunanui
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Stoke

Stoke is noteworthy for its bars, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Greenmeadows Park and McCashin's Brewery.

Stoke
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Nelson South

Unique features of Nelson South include the spas and restaurants. Make a stop by Fairfield Park or Victory Square while you're exploring the area.

Nelson South
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Maitai

While visiting Maitai, you might make a stop by sights like Centre of New Zealand Monument and Waahi Taakaro Golf Club.

Maitai
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The Wood

If you're spending some time in The Wood, Trafalgar Park and Founders Heritage Park are top sights worth seeing.

The Wood

Frequently asked questions

Is Nelson worth visiting?
Offering a blend of distilleries and craft breweries and coastal beaches, there's no shortage of things to do in Nelson. When you're here, visit Christ Church Cathedral, a key attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Nelson?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Nelson Provincial Museum and Natureland Zoo. Then, tour other parts of Nelson for local restaurants and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Nelson?
Christ Church Cathedral is one of the top tourist attractions in Nelson and deserves a spot on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Nelson?
Three days in Nelson is enough to visit the city's main highlights. Many guests stay for two days on average. Christ Church Cathedral, Nelson Provincial Museum and Natureland Zoo are top-rated sights. Want to experience more? Hang around a while longer to check off nearby hotspots like Motueka.
Is Nelson a walkable city?
It all depends on what you plan to see and do in Nelson. Several top sights, such as Christ Church Cathedral and Nelson Provincial Museum, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Nelson's best neighborhoods, The Wood is 0.97 kilometers away from downtown, while Nelson City Centre is 0.48 kilometers away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Nelson with kids?
If you are after activities and attractions for all ages, here are some excellent ideas for what to do in Nelson with kids.

What to do in Nelson for adults?
South Pacific Distillery and McCashin's Brewery are just a few of the things to do in Nelson. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Nelson?
From visiting parks to strolling around hip neighborhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Nelson. If you're looking for inspiration, get some recommendations from a local tour guide. Christ Church Cathedral is a must for anyone looking to save on their travel adventures.