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 AllMaitai Whare Iti
If you’re looking for a rural respite, head to the heart of the Maitai Valley where surrounded by the tranquillity of the native bush, you’ll find the Maitai...
Burger Culture
You'll find delicious burgers, outrageously lush shakes, nostalgic tunes and good vibes here.
Tasteology
The outside of the building is simple and understated in white and sage green, the inside overflows with colour.
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.
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.
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.
Parker Gallery
Feast your eyes on one-of-a-kind pieces from New Zealand artists.
Urban Oyster Bar & Eatery
The stars of the show, as the name suggests, are oysters.
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...
Rabbit Island Coffee Co.
Located in a chic, airy storefront a few doors down from
Java Hut
Keen to find that secret local’s coffee spot in Māpua? Make a stop at Java Hut on the main road into town.
Hot Clay - Kiln Gallery
You’re bound to encounter a handmade ceramic or two that catches your eye.
Zappekin Artists & Allies
Zappekin Artists & Allies is a co-op of seven resident creatives formed to create community for local artists, a space to come together and work in, exhibit and collaborate in.
