Discover the best places to eat, drink, shop and explore in Nelson Tasman with our guide.
Nelson is a city synonymous with sunshine, the great outdoors, world-class cuisine, and creativity. Discover golden beaches, clear waters, mountaintops and lakes among a vibrant arts, beverage, and food scene. The wonderful Nelson Tasman region is an area to be treasured.
There is so much to discover in the wider Nelson Tasman region that it’s no wonder this seaside town is a favourite destination for holidaymakers and lifestyle searchers alike. While summer months are the natural time to head to this wonderland of sunshine and sandy beaches, it’s just as intriguing visiting in winter without the masses.
The compact downtown is best explored on foot and plays host to numerous interesting destinations. Find galleries exhibiting the best of the region from ceramic art to painting, glass-blowing and beyond, world-class restaurants, cafés and breweries, carefully curated boutiques, recycled fashion, and antique stores, plus an iconic Saturday market, which brings in local makers, bakers, and growers to showcase the bounty of the region.
Just beyond the city centre, the great outdoors awaits. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, water sports, or boating, it’s all within reach here. Camp by the beach, strap on a backpack, or slip on a swimsuit — there’s plenty of activities to choose from.
Whichever way you decide to explore the region, expect to be surrounded by stunning natural landscapes like nowhere else, to bathe in sunshine, wine and dine like a king, and appreciate art made by clever creatives that call the Top of the South home.
Journeys to The Mussel Inn: A Legend of New Zealand Hospitality
It started over 30 years ago with a bare paddock and a vision; to create a space for family and friends to gather and for music to be played. Fast forward a few decades, and The Mussel Inn is one of New Zealand's most loved hospitality destinations. A pub, brewery and live music venue in Golden Bay on the way to the top of Te Waipounamu South Island.
The Best Nelson Tasman Accommodation Worth Travelling For
From chic urban oases to luxe resorts and adventure-ready cabins, here’s the best Nelson Tasman accommodation to suit every style of traveller and every budget.
9 Nelson Tasman Walks and Where to Treat Yourself Afterwards
Nelson Tasman is the Top of the South’s destination for history, culture and varied natural landscape. It’s also a pretty neat part of New Zealand Aotearoa for a spot of walking and eating.
An Art and Interiors Lover's Guide to Nelson Tasman
Shopping for art doesn’t just have to be for a statement wall piece or stuffy painting. Items you can touch and use can be art too, and artisans across Nelson Tasman have you covered with galleries specialising in ceramics, glass and stylish homewares.
The Neat Taste Trail of Nelson Tasman
A journey of edible delights and surprises for your tastebuds.
Explore our Directory
View AllThe Courthouse Café
It’s easy to see how The Courthouse Café got its name, housed as it is in Collingwood’s former courthouse.
The Free House
Situated in an old church turned pub, The Free House is a true Nelson craft beer institution.
Little Dove Cafe
Wholesome food and aromatic pastries inspired by the Levant—the eastern Mediterranean region encompassing Israel, Lebanon, Jordan and parts of Syria—might not be...
Golden Bear Brewing Company
Golden Bear Brewing Company opened its doors back in 2008 and quickly became a hub of great beer, honest food, and regular live music.
Little Beehive Co-op
A treasure trove of items made by local creatives.
The Moutere Inn
The oldest pub functioning in its original building in Aotearoa and proud of it, The Moutere Inn is a definite destination in this part of Te Waipounamu.
Burger Culture
You'll find delicious burgers, outrageously lush shakes, nostalgic tunes and good vibes here.
Old Factory Corner
Old Factory Corner in Appleby is a one-stop-shop for local produce, waste-free shopping, and specialty food vendors.
Drift Off Grid - Luxury Eco Glamping
One of the best draws of Golden Bay is its gorgeous scenery, and at Drift Off Grid Glamping, you can immerse yourself in nature while staying at stylish, eco-conscious...
Godzilla Recycled Clothing
Looking to ethically revamp your wardrobe with a funky, unique edge? The racks of Godzilla Clothing in the heart of Nelson’s CBD have exactly what you need.
The Smoking Barrel
The Smoking Barrel is a bit of a Motueka institution. The family-owned and operated restaurant specialises in low & slow American style BBQ, statement burgers, and gourmet donuts.
Mussel Inn
A staple for over thirty years in Golden Bay, The Mussel Inn is your go-to for wholesome food, delicious in-house brews, dance-worthy live music and possibly a roaming weka...
Global Soap
Stepping in, you’ll find it hard not to pick up each colourful square placed neatly along the shelves and bring them to your nose, and even harder to walk out without a paper bag of goodies to take home.
Arden + Porta Via
Arden is a culinary experience you shouldn’t leave Nelson without enjoying.
The Wholemeal Café
Arguably the town’s most recognisable eatery, The Wholemeal Café, is housed in the former Takaka Theatre that dates back to 1910.
