Centre of New Zealand

  • Nelson
  • Walks & Hikes

The Centre of New Zealand is one of Nelson Tasman’s most popular walks. As the central trig point used for surveying in the 1870’s, the site is adorned with a giant white pin that identifies its unique history. The walk itself takes 20-60 minutes depending on your fitness, and caters to push chairs and buggies.

A short but sweet uphill stroll under the canopy of poplar and kauri trees will land you at the viewing platform, offering spectacular views over Nelson City and Tasman Bay. Once you reach the top, we recommend taking a seat and enjoying the view – take a picnic with you if you wish!

If you’d like to continue exploring, there are plenty of different routes you could take on your descent: the Branford Park trail will take you to the ‘Black Hole’ swimming spot, whilst continuing along the hillside will extend your journey through to Walters Bluff. Alternatively, returning downhill to the Botanical Reserve offers a variety of options to explore some of the magical gardens located close by.

How to get there: The walk begins from the Botanical Reserve, which has a unique history as the site of the first ever rugby game played in New Zealand. You can access Botanical Reserve via a blue footbridge at the end of Hardy Street (parking available by the footbridge), or via Tory Street or Milton Street.

Photo credits: (1-2) Nelson City Council, (3-4) www.nelsontasman.nz.

Address

Centre of New Zealand

Milton Street
The Wood
7010 Nelson

Phone
+6435482304
Visit website
Email
visit@nelsontasman.nz
logo