Nelson - a pocket paradise nestled in the top northwest corner of the South Island.
A place where you will find artists and craftspeople, Maori marae, alternative communities and adventurers enjoying more sunshine hours than any other region in New Zealand.

Geographically, the entire area is said to resemble the prow of the waka (canoe) of Maui, an important figure in Maori mythology, and was known by the Maori as Te Tau Ihu o Te Waka a Maui (the tip of the nose of the canoe of Maui).

Home to three national parks, the centre of New Zealand, and Nelson, New Zealand's second oldest city, the region has many claims to fame. Nelson Tasman is known as one of New Zealand's sunniest spots, is home to 26 wineries and a trail of boutique brewers. It is the birthplace of both rugby (the first game in New Zealand was played there in May 1870) and the World of Wearable Art.

Countless walkways, mountain bike trails, kayaking, sailing, quad biking and golf are all accessible just moments from Nelson city, or further a field in the region's diverse landscapes.

Nelson is also known for its nucleus of ceramic artists, jewellers, painters, wood workers, wine makers and others who are ‘happy at their work' and ready to welcome you to their place.

This might mean a visit to a gallery overlooking the calm waters of an estuary, it might be a chat about the vintage with a world class vintner, a seafood lunch at a waterfront cafe or breakfast on the veranda of a colonial home with hosts who are living their dream.

Even shopping in the city has this air of something special. Find the silversmith who crafted the ring for the "Lord of the Rings" movies, seek out the local designers for a unique take on current fashions, and select unusual jewellery and ceramics to take home.

Out of town you'll find adventure that has evolved a particularly Nelson take. Travel the Abel Tasman Coast with a guide whose family have lived there for four generations, nature walk in the birdsong of Lake Rotoiti, climb to the Centre of New Zealand, get to know the craggy splendour of the Kahurangi National Park or experience the wilderness of Farewell Spit.

Nelson is ripe with treasures of all the best kinds. Come and be part of an enviable lifestyle fuelled by fresh food, fine wines, sunshine, and some of the best landscapes nature has to offer. For more information on the Nelson Tasman region, visit www.nelsonnz.com and for upcoming events www.itson.co.nz

Find out more about Nelson and Tasman - 3 short videos about our beautiful region:
Nelson Tasman - picture perfect
Nelson Tasman National Parks
Nelson City - a pocket paradise