Nelson, South Island

Wilson’s Abel Tasman Experiences

A family-run company, Wilson’s is the premier operator of kayaking, hiking, boat cruising and water taxi tours of Abel Tasman National Park. Whether you have one or fi ve days to explore this stunning coastal National Park, Wilson’s will be able to get you where you want to go by whatever means you prefer. Wilson’s can pick you up in Nelson, or you can drive to their offi ce at the gateway to the park.

Some popular options are:

Sea Kayaking Day Excursions
Single-day sea kayaking for all budgets.
from $120

Cruise and Hike
Cruise or Water Taxi out, and hike back.
from $40

Vista Cruises
Scenic cruises along the spectacular Abel Tasman coastline.

Overnight Kayaking or Hiking
Spend a night or more at one of the lodges along the track, and kayak, hike and/or cruise in and out.

3-5 Day Guided Walks
Explore the length of the world famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track.
3-Day Guided Walks from $793 /per person, twin share
5-Day Guided Walks from $1,166 /per person, twin share

Bay Tours’ Wine & Gourmet Tours, Nelson

Nelson’s happy blend of climate and landscape has produced ideal grape growing conditions for elegant pinot noirs, chardonnays, sauvignon blancs, rieslings and pinot gris, as well as other fruits and olives. This is a day (or half dayyour choice) of indulgence to satisfy your appetite and thrill your palate. Immerse yourself in Nelson’s nature and beauty and find something special to take home. Experience wine, food, olive oils and preserves, all presented with passion.

from $67, half day per person

Nelson Area Hotels

Wairepo House, Motueka

Amid 180 acres of apple and pear orchards and 12,000 peony tubers, you will find the unique setting of the rambling and luxurious Wairepo House, near Nelson. The three-storied colonial-style country homestead is set in two acres of garden, with many beautiful trees and large, rambling perennial borders that meander to a grass tennis court and a summer house that is situated over the pond, a wonderful place to relax with a glass of local wine and cheese platter. The five well-appointed suites feature native timbers, antique furnishings and artwork from some of the region’s finest. To capture the sea and mountain views, all suites open to balconies and garden.

from $301 per room

Cathedral Inn, Nelson

Set on a rise behind the Nelson Cathedral, this two-story Heritage-listed house was once the residence of Bishop Suter, and still retains a dignified ambience. Tucked away in a quiet enclave, Cathedral Inn is only a few minutes’ walk to the center of town. Completely refurbished with no expense spared, a stay here is as comfortable as you will find. The seven guest rooms are decorated to suit the grand style of the house, with brass or timber bedheads, lace curtains, writing desks and cane or leather chairs.

Downstairs, a large high-studded and elegant lounge and dining area is dedicated to guests. It opens to a covered veranda and outdoor patio. Polished antiques, crystal, silver, fresh flowers and period paintings give the house its refined ambience.

from $243 per room

Rutherford Hotel, Nelson—A Heritage Hotel

The Rutherford Hotel Nelson offers travelers an excellent standard of accommodation and service at its central city location. The Rutherford has all of the amenities, facilities and levels of comfort you would expect from an international hotel, including a hospitable welcome.

from $142 per room

Bonus Offer: Stay 2 nights & receive complimentary room upgrade

California House Inn

Ideally situated in a quiet garden setting by the Maitai river, just five minutes walk from the heart of Nelson, California House Inn is the town’s premier bed & breakfast. Built in 1893, California House Inn is classified by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. The property’s features are impressive, from the English oak-paneled entrance hall and beautifully finished New Zealand native timbers, to the numerous stained glass windows and stylish period decor. California House Inn has spacious rooms and wide sunny verandas overlooking the garden. Highlights of a stay here are gourmet breakfasts, warm hospitality and personalized service.

from $239 per room