blurry placeholderGlide past sea caves and spot seals with Golden Bay Kayaks.

Autumn

Golden Bay

Feel the warmth of Nelson Tasman this autumn

Radiating golden hues and cosy charm, autumn in Nelson Tasman is an ideal time for a getaway in a place recently voted New Zealand’s most satisfying holiday destination.

Autumn in Nelson Tasman is pure magic

The golden light is a dream for photographers and artists, while wildlife, including playful fur seals, thrives under the gentle autumn sun. With calmer weather, it’s an idyllic time for boat cruises and scenic flights.

Our region’s vineyards come alive in autumn, with leaves turning golden and harvest in full swing. Cycling through wineries or enjoying cellar door tastings becomes a must-do, especially when paired with award-winning dining experiences.

It's on this autumn

Autumn is when Nelson Tasman really comes alive, with a calendar of events that pair golden days with great music, food, art and community vibes.

Nelson Italian Festival 2026

Nelson Italian Festival 2026

1 March 2026 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Trafalgar Park, Nelson
Ethnic, Multicultural
Nelson Fringe Festival

Nelson Fringe Festival

5 March 2026 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Refinery ArtSpace, Nelson
Festivals
NZ Antique & Classic Boat Show

NZ Antique & Classic Boat Show

7 March 2026 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Kerr Bay, Nelson Lakes
Boating
Vero International Festival of Historic Motoring 2026 Public Events

Vero International Festival of Historic Motoring 2026 Public Events

16 March 2026 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
The Trafalgar Centre, Nelson
Family Entertainment
The Beths

The Beths

23 March 2026 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Theatre Royal Nelson, Nelson
Singer-Songwriter
The Big Bike Film Night 2026

The Big Bike Film Night 2026

26 March 2026 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm
The Suter Theatre, Nelson
Cycling
Marchfest

Marchfest

28 March 2026 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Founders Heritage Park, Nelson
Festivals
Nelson Yoga Festival

Nelson Yoga Festival

25 April 2026 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
Founders Heritage Park, Nelson
Festivals

Find your perfect stay

Our accommodation comes in all flavours, from modern hotel and motel rooms and fully equipped apartments to secluded luxury lodges, holiday parks and off-grid glamping escapes.

Exclusive accommodation deals

With fewer crowds and seasonal accommodation deals on offer, autumn is a smart time to plan a stay in Nelson Tasman. View all accommodation deals

Autumn Deal - Save 15%
15% off deal
Ratanui Lodge

Autumn Deal - Save 15% Celebrate the Seasons

at Ratanui Lodge Save 15% on one night stays 1 March-26 April. Select dates

15%Off

Valid between 27 January 2026 11:00 am - 25 April 2026 12:00 pm
More information
Pohara Paddle & Stay
$930 deal
Ratanui Lodge

Pohara Paddle & Stay One nights accommodation

Breakfast for two A half day trip with Golden Bay Kayaks. Scroll for Offer.

From
$930NZD

Includes packed lunch

Valid between 4 January 2026 11:00 am - 30 March 2026 11:00 am
More information
Farewell Spit Experience
$1340 deal
Ratanui Lodge

Farewell Spit Experience 2 nights, with breakfast daily

Farewell Spit Tour for 2 Picnic Lunch for 2 Scroll to Golden Bay Getaway

From
$1340NZD

T&C apply. Scroll to Offer

Valid between 4 January 2026 11:00 am - 30 March 2026 11:00 am
More information
Romantic Ratanui
$1004 deal
Ratanui Lodge

Romantic Ratanui 2 night package

Perfect for a celebration Includes daily breakfast Dinner one evening, bubbles

From
$1004NZD

T&C apply. Scroll to Offer

Valid between 4 January 2026 11:00 am - 30 March 2026 11:00 am
More information
Great Autumn Deals
20% off deal
Awaroa Lodge

Great Autumn Deals 20% off + $25 dining credit

2 consecutive nights with our Stay and Save deal 1 March-26 April. T&Cs Apply

20%Off

T&C apply

Valid between 29 November 2025 11:00 am - 25 April 2026 12:00 pm
More information
Awaroa Family Adventure
$1938 deal
Awaroa Lodge

Awaroa Family Adventure A 2 Night Adventure

In Abel Tasman National Park including accomm & selected meals 2 adults & 2 kids <12

From
$1938NZD

+ water taxi. Scroll for Deal

Valid between 8 June 2025 12:00 pm - 19 April 2026 12:00 pm
More information
Celebrate Awaroa
$1358 deal
Awaroa Lodge

Celebrate Awaroa Perfect for a Special Occasion

2 nights accommodation 3 course dinner. Full cooked breakfast. Scroll for Deal

Now
$1358NZD

based on 2 people, T&C apply

Valid between 8 June 2025 12:00 pm - 19 April 2026 12:00 pm
More information
Awaroa Paddle & Stay
$1238 deal
Awaroa Lodge

Awaroa Paddle & Stay Half Day Guided Sea Kayaking

2 nights accommodation Return water transfers Full cooked breakfast

From
$1238NZD

for 2 people in a Standard Rm

Valid between 8 June 2025 12:00 pm - 19 April 2026 12:00 pm
More information

Weather essentials

Autumn brings warm days, crisp evenings, and some of the most settled weather, with temperatures ranging between 16°C to 22°C. The vibrant foliage adds extra charm to the already stunning landscapes, making it a perfect time for hiking, vineyard visits, or coastal strolls. With sunny skies, mild breezes, and fewer crowds, it’s an ideal season to soak up the tranquillity of our region’s natural beauty, local culture, and world-class dining.

Autumn in New Zealand spans March, April and May.