Plan the perfect date in Nelson City

Whatever date night looks like for you, dining alfresco, chasing the sunset, strolling along the beach or dancing the night away, you’ll find plenty of ways to make a night of it here.

Dine by the water's edge

Plan the perfect dining experience with your loved one. Picture yourself savouring delicious dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients while enjoying a rose gold sunset with a glass of wine.

Our top picks:

Tides Bar & Eatery

Set along the banks of the Maitai River, Tides Bar & Eatery is open all day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, available from 6.45 am to 8.30 pm daily.

Gold Partner

Nelson's iconic waterfront heritage venue. The Boathouse is a member's society open to the public as a cafe, a venue for weddings and events and wonderful live music from international and local artists. Come and enjoy chowder on the deck and see what all the fuss is about.

Boat Shed Café

Situated on the iconic Nelson waterfront, our restaurant revolves around a seasonally driven menu that celebrates exceptional New Zealand produce every day.

The Styx

The Styx is a place to get away from it all. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax next to the ocean. We’ll keep your glass filled with local libations and your soul happy with fresh food made with love.

Walking to Water With Paddleboards at Tahunanui Beach

Sunset walks on the beach

Catch a stunning sunset at one of our stunning beaches. Pack a picnic and a blanket, and enjoy the serene views together.

Our top picks:

Glenduan Beach

Glenduan, or The Glen as locals say, is a pebble beach that links the Boulder Bank to Mackay Bluff. It’s the gateway to an 8 km coastal trail packed with stunning views and rich biodiversity.

Cable Bay

Rotokura (Cable Bay) is a hidden gem in the Nelson Tasman region, only a 20-minute drive from Nelson City. It's so close to town that you feel like you’ve escaped it all and discovered a slice of beautiful nature in rural New Zealand.

Tāhunanui Beach

The closest beach to Nelson City, Tāhunanui Beach, is a recreational paradise with a 1.75km stretch of sand.

The Monaco Peninsula Loop

The Monaco Peninsula, home to a small village community, is the perfect seaside destination for a short stroll.

Live music

From intimate acoustic sessions in cosy cafés to lively performances at bustling bars and outdoor festivals, there's always something to enjoy.

Our top picks:

The Dog's Bone

Tucked away down Achilles Avenue (Wakatu Square Carpark), you'll find The Dog's Bone. It is filled with bright colours, recycled furniture, quirky art, dog memorabilia, live music, burgers and all-round good vibes

Fanny's Pub

Fanny’s Pub in Nelson is a vibrant, cosy spot with a welcoming vibe, serving craft cocktails, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty pub fare. It’s perfect for catching up with friends, enjoying live music, or soaking up the local charm in the heart of the city.

Red16

A casual and cosy bar located in the heart of Nelson. At Red16, you can enjoy an impressive selection of local wines, beers, hand-pulled ales, and expertly crafted cocktails.