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 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...
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...
TOAD Hall Café
TOAD Hall Café in Motueka is one of those places you enter once by chance, and never pass up again.
flamedaisy
Home of stunning hand-blown glass and neon art by artist Anthony Genet.
Bacca Bakery
Flavour, nutrition, and affordability are the calling cards of Bacca Bakery, a two-person operation of love in Parapara.
Salvito's Pizza Bar
Nelson has a long and significant Italian history, and one of the best ways this heritage shines through is in the city’s pizza scene.
The Apple Pickers' Cottages
Channel your inner Rita Angus and step into an idyllic piece of Nelson Tasman at The Apple Pickers’ Cottages.
Rabbit Island Coffee Co.
Located in a chic, airy storefront a few doors down from
The Historic Langford Store & Post Office
Stepping into The Langford Store in Golden Bay is like stepping into a piece of historic Kiwiana, and immediately brings a smile to your face.
The Dangerous Kitchen
Despite its moniker, the only thing truly dangerous about The Dangerous Kitchen in Tākaka, is how tasty its food is.
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.
Trouble & Fox Boutique
Hidden down an alleyway just off the main drag of downtown Nelson lies Trouble & Fox Boutique, an inviting wee spot filled with tastefully curated apparel.
Maitai 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...
