The Nelson Tasman region is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and extraordinary outdoor experiences. So if you're looking for inspiration for your group, look no further, because we've got you covered with 1 hour, half day and full day options for everyone to enjoy.


1-2 Hours

With Nelson Tasman being a wonderland of stunning natural landscapes you are spoilt for choice with activities. Whilst it’s recommended you allocate more time to fully enjoy the vast options in this area, if you only have an hour or two you can choose according to the location of your conference.

If you’re based in Nelson City or close to it, your group may like to take a short stroll to the geographical Centre of New Zealand. A twenty-minute uphill trek under the canopy of poplar and kauri trees will land you at the Centre of New Zealand viewing platform, adorned with a large white pin that identifies the central trig point from the 1870’s. After capturing that perfect Instagram shot, take a breath of fresh air and enjoy the stunning views over the buzzing central city, Tasman Bay and the picturesque mountain ranges. Alternatively, you could go for a quick paddleboarding session on the waterfront, or hire a mountain bike and venture into the hills that backdrop the city centre. For something slightly less physical, why not picnic in the spectacular Queens or Miyazu Gardens, or hire some e-bike's and cruise along the Maitai River?

If your conference or group is staying further afield near to the Abel Tasman National Park, you have endless outdoor activities right on your doorstep; simply choose one of the options in the half or full day itinerary below.

 

 


Half Day

Allowing for travel time from the city centre, a half day is a good time-frame to expand your horizons and venture into the wider Nelson Tasman region. With activities designed to make the most of the great outdoors, your group will get to experience more of the stunning natural landscapes that the Top of the South is renowned for.

Nelson Coachlines takes the stress out of travel and can transport your group anywhere in the region, and many of the activity operators offer transfer options as well. Or, if seeing the region from great heights and reaching far-fledged iconic locations is your preference, you could book a helicopter flight to see the Lord of the Rings film sites, and arrive in style for lunch at Awaroa Lodge in the Abel Tasman National Park. 

With cycling an integral part of the Nelson Tasman culture, you won't want to miss out on experiencing Tasman's Great Taste Trail. Weaving past an array of picturesque locations, such as the Monaco Peninsula and the Waimea Inlet, Rabbit Island and Mapua, you'll get to ride beachside before hopping aboard the Mapua Ferry. Reminisce on the orchards and vineyards, sparkling coastlines, rivers and valleys of the day whilst drinking in the spectacular views (and a glass of delicious wine) on the Mapua Wharf.

If a glimpse of golden sand is what you're after, book a shuttle to the Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park. Offering great riding for all abilities in a stunning and unique setting, the mountain bike park is based at the gateway of the world-famous Abel Tasman National Park. Extraordinary trails feature stunning views over the glistening sea and golden beaches below, and the waterfront restaurants are the perfect place to relax and refuel after an active day in the sun. Alternatively, hire a stand-up paddleboard and explore the lagoons and islands that surround Kaiteriteri Bay. 

 

 


Full Day

A full day allows you to enjoy epic views and extraordinary activities at a more leisurely pace, with necessary breaks to savour the region's artisan fare. 

If you love cycling, or want to try the e-bike option out, you could enjoy more of Tasman’s Great Taste Trail. Browse the boutique cool-store galleries on the Mapua Wharf, before continuing on to the gorgeous golden sands of Kaiteriteri Beach, stopping off to indulge in world-famous donuts in Motueka and delicious craft beer in Riwaka. The rolling hills, mountains and seascape views along this section of the trail are unparalleled elsewhere in the world, and can be enjoyed at any time of the year.

If the full Abel Tasman experience is what you're looking for, book a transfer to Kaiteriteri with one of the local operators and set out on your day's adventures. You can explore the picturesque coastline in any number of ways: cruise vessel, sailing catamaran, aqua taxi, eco-tour, kayak, helicopter, foot or a combination of them all! One of the most popular options is to kayak the Astrolabe Roadstead, farewell your guide from a nearby beach, take a stroll amongst the lush native surrounds, and then hop on board a scenic cruise to explore the rest of the majestic Abel Tasman coastline. For those more adventurous, you might try canyoning or even sky diving over this extraordinary part of the world.

If you have transport over the Takaka Hill, it's definitely worth venturing further afield to Golden Bay for a tour of Farewell Spit. One of the largest natural sandspits in the world and a wetland of international importance, the spit is a whopping 35km long, and is home to an endless array of wildlife guaranteed to mesmerise your group. A colony of gannets, playful seal pups and cheeky oyster-catchers provide hours of entertainment, and nothing quite compares to the rush of adrenaline you feel as you roll down the towering sand dunes. 

Depending on the time of your Farewell Spit tour, which is dictated by the tides, you won't want to miss visiting Te Waikoropupu Springs. A short walk through manuka and kanuka forest will land you at the largest freshwater springs in the southern hemisphere, with water so clear it’s almost impossible not to see the eels and fish darting around under the surface. The Mussel Inn, a quirky live music venue known for their artisan beers, ciders and soft drinks, is the perfect place to refuel before venturing back over the hill.

 

 

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