Free things to do in Nelson
Matai River Walkway, Nelson
You don’t need to splash out to enjoy Nelson City. Our place is packed with things locals love to do for free, from morning strolls through leafy gardens to sunset swims at the beach. It’s all about slowing down, soaking up the sunshine, and seeing the city the way we do.
Here are some of the best free experiences to enjoy right in the heart of Nelson.
This is the classic Nelson walk that everyone knows and loves. The track begins at the Botanical Reserve, which happens to be the site of New Zealand’s very first rugby game. From there, it’s a steady climb to the top, where you’ll find a lookout that shows off the whole city, Tasman Bay, and the mountain ranges beyond. On a sunny day, you’ll see locals walking their dogs, jogging up the hill, or taking their kids up for an adventure.
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Montgomery Square comes alive every Saturday morning with music, food, and colour. Locals have been coming here for decades, so it has a real community feel. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a brilliant place to wander, chat with stallholders, and get a taste of Nelson’s creative spirit. Grab a coffee, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy the buzz.
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Nelson’s own city beach is the perfect place to spend an afternoon without spending a cent. Families set up picnics, kids play in the sand, and groups of mates kick a ball around. The water is usually calm, so it’s safe for swimming or paddleboarding, and the sunsets here are spectacular. If you want to feel like a local, join the evening dog walkers or grab fish and chips and eat them on the sand.
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When you’re in Nelson, the City Centre ArtWalk is a must-do. This free outdoor gallery winds through the heart of town, leading you past 26 artworks that each carry a special connection to our region. You’ll stumble across bold contemporary creations, historic gems, and pieces that speak to the stories of Whakatū Nelson. Take it at your own pace, soak up the creative energy in the open air, and see our streets from a whole new perspective. Afterwards, wander into nearby galleries like Flamedaisy to watch artists at work and find something special to take home.
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Right in the heart of the city, this museum tells the stories of Nelson Tasman in a way that locals are proud of. Entry is free for residents and well worth it for visitors, too. Exhibitions cover everything from natural history to contemporary art, and there’s usually a local story or two that sparks conversation. It’s a spot where many Nelson kids grew up going on school trips, so it has both nostalgic charm and plenty to discover.
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Side by side in the city, these two spots are easy to enjoy together. The Suter is free to enter and often showcases exhibitions that locals pop in to see on their lunch break. The café overlooks a lily pond, perfect for a quick pause. Step outside and you are in Queen’s Gardens, a peaceful Victorian-style park where locals stroll, picnic, and slow down for a while.
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The Maitai River is like Nelson’s green ribbon, winding right through the city. Locals use the riverside tracks every day, whether it’s for a quick lunchtime walk, a family bike ride, or a jog after work. Follow the path upstream and you’ll find swimming holes that locals return to summer after summer, while quieter corners are perfect for a picnic or a book in the shade. It’s one of the easiest ways to experience the outdoor lifestyle Nelson is known for.
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