Nelson Tasman's boutique urban vibe and stunning natural landscapes make it the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of big city life. Relaxation and rejuvenation comes hand in hand with this culinary destination, home to three national parks and a plethora of golden sand beaches. 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

If you only have a couple of hours, you could hire some e-bikes and explore the cycleway along the Maitai River, watching for the elusive seal pups that sometimes make their way in from the sea. Gently cruising down to the Nelson Marina, breathe in the fresh sea air, taking in the sparkling water and port-side ambience of moored yachts and leisure fishing vessels coming back in to the boat ramp. A visual tapestry of sails, reflections and ripples are sure to get you dreaming of adventures on the high seas, and of course, you could always take a 2-hour sail around the bay with Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures.

In this short time-frame you could treat yourself to a short tour of Nelson's art galleries, either guided or unguided depending on your preference. Key highlights in the City Centre include the Suter Art Gallery and Craig Potton Gallery, whilst further afield a visit to the Moutere Artisans is a must. Many operators offer guided tours of art galleries, artisan producers, wineries and craft breweries, so you can relax amongst spectacular surroundings knowing that someone else is taking care of all the finer details.

If your group are looking for relaxation and indulgence (or a great rainy day alternative), a rejuvenating massage and a bubbling spa pool calls from the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park. Or, if you're based in Golden Bay during your stay, there are plenty of places to practice mindfulness in this laid-back town. A quick visit to the Golden Bay website can help you find the best option based on your preferences.

 

 


Half Day

If you have up to half a day, you’ll need to focus your efforts, and what better way to refuel and reward than by tasting your way around a thoroughly extraordinary gourmet haven?

Treat yourself to a tour of the region's artisan fare and delight your senses along the way with craft breweries, cellar doors, restaurants, chocolatiers and famous cheeses in cute artisan shops. These outstanding artisan pioneers have built their lives and businesses across the region, from the city centre to seaside villages, and roadside stalls to factory experiences, and there are many guided tours guaranteed to delight your taste and olfactory senses!

If you just feel like a simple ‘there, stop and back’ experience, nowhere says relaxation quite like Mapua Wharf, where you can wander between boutique stores at your leisure, indulge at the wine bar, dine at quality restaurants, visit the craft beer brewery, or simply grab yourself some famous fish and chips from the historical Smokehouse. On the way back, savour the opportunity to visit some award-winning cellar doors, tasting the vast flavours of the region and selecting a special bottle to take back home with you.

Alternatively, spoil your group with a scenic helicopter flight out to a lodge in the Abel Tasman, or further afield to admire Lake Rotomaiwhenua, the clearest lake in the world. If you have Lord of the Rings fans in your group, a majestic mountain in the Kahurangi National Park could be calling your name. 

With a vast selection of golf courses across the region, you could challenge the group to a round of golf. Nelson City, Maitai, Richmond, Tasman, Motueka and Takaka – the choice and the course type are as diverse as the stunning views – so much so it may distract you from getting a hole in one, but we promise they're worth it!

 

 


Full Day

With a full day in Nelson Tasman, you’ve got time to chill out and enjoy quality relaxation. Of course, this starts with a great night’s sleep in an environment where excellent customer service meets that bit of luxury you don’t get at home. Nelson Tasman offers a range of luxury accommodation from 24-hour serviced hotels to boutique vineyard accommodation and spectacular beachfront lodges.

From your central city hotel, set off on foot to explore the unique arts and heritage of Nelson City, or indulge in some pampering and a local day spa. Slightly further afield, you can escape the ordinary and experience the picturesque surrounds of the Abel Tasman National Park, enjoying the serenity that comes with a sunrise kayaking trip in a pleasantly calm bay. If full immersion into the Park doesn't suit, the gateway towns of Kaiteriteri and Marahau promise spectacular views, lush golden sands and delicious culinary experiences. Luxury eco retreats are also a great way to rejuvenate, and there's no shortage of these here.

There's no better way to relax and 'wine' down than with a tiki-tour of the vineyards and cellar doors that characterise the rolling Moutere Hills and expansive Waimea Plains. Each renowned for their own distinct sub-climates and terrior, the Nelson Tasman wine trail is compact enough to experience both destinations in one day, and the boutique nature of many of the wineries gives a relaxed and authentic experience. The Moutere Artisan Village is a wonderfully inspiring stop, home to a community with a deep love for, and connection with the stunning natural landscapes that encircle them. The gravel threaded clay soils provide excellent growing conditions for rich, flavoursome fruits, mycorrhizal mushrooms and for harvesting olives. So, it’s no surprise to find roadside stalls and boutique stores dotted around the valley, selling local artisan goodies such as sheep cheese, olive oils, chutneys and jams.

 

 

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