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Kayak Adventure, Abel Tasman National Park, South Island, New Zealand

Nelson & Abel Tasman

Visit Nelson & Abel Tasman

Introduction

To the west of the Marlborough Sounds is Abel Tasman National Park, another area of great natural beauty on the warm and sunny northern tip of the South Island.

Sailing, walking and sea kayaking among the park's picturesque bays are some of the most popular activities for visitors.

Others choose to head for the mountains and rivers inland from Nelson, the region's main hub. World-class white-water rafting, fly-fishing and mountain biking can be experienced inland.

However, the Nelson region is also a great place to relax as well - wineries, art galleries, wellness retreats and fine dining restaurants are other attractions.

Nelson

The lively coastal town of Nelson is one of the oldest settlements in New Zealand and marks the centre of the country geographically.

It was named after Horatio Nelson and references to the admiral can be seen in street names and public areas in the city, such as Trafalgar Street and Trafalgar Park.

Christ Church Cathedral stands on a small hill that affords views across Nelson towards Tasman Bay and the mountains that surround the city on three sides.

There are also some interesting art galleries and museums, as well as cafes and restaurants serving quality regional food. Succulent seafood, organic vegetables and drinks from local microbreweries and wineries have earned Nelson a reputation as a destination for foodies.

Abel Tasman National Park

Beautiful beaches, clear seas and some of the country's best walking tracks are the draws of the small Abel Tasman National Park, 60 kilometres from Nelson.

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of the least demanding of New Zealand's great walks and is an excellent option for those who might not automatically think of themselves as trampers. It takes between two and five days, meandering through picturesque bush, over sandy beaches and up to scenic lookout points.

Cruises are another way to explore the park, combining time at sea with walking tours and other shore excursions. Sea kayaking is also popular and provides the means to reach secret coves and overnight campsites. Seals and dolphins are sometimes seen while you paddle, swim and snorkel.

 

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Top itineraries in Nelson & Abel Tasman

Queenstown, New Zealand

Highlights of New Zealand

19-day tailor-made self-drive from £3,790 pp incl. flights

With boutique hotel stays and car hire included throughout, this curated road trip perfectly showcases the unique cultures and natural wonders of New Zealand's North and South islands.

Maui Ultima Elite

New Zealand by Motorhome

20-day motorhome self-drive from £4,685 pp incl. flights

With its spectacular driving routes linking gorgeous coastlines and vast national parks, and plenty of gorgeous locations to pull up and park, find out why New Zealand is tailor-made for a motorhome holiday.

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Wilderness Highlights of New Zealand

23-day tailor-made self-drive from £8,490 pp incl. flights

Discover the spectacular landscapes of New Zealand's north and south islands on this fly-drive holiday, which includes a journey across the Southern Alps aboard the iconic TranzAlpine Express.

Mountain picnic, Queenstown, New Zealand

Culinary Highlights of New Zealand

25-day tailor-made self-drive from £8,445 pp

With a focus on food and wine, this luxury fly-drive covers many of New Zealand's highlights, taking in the everything from the rolling vineyards of Hawke's Bay to the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps.

Top places to stay in Nelson & Abel Tasman

Stonefly Lodge, New Zealand

Stonefly Lodge, Nelson, New Zealand

Small & intimate lodge

Set within 150 acres of pristine private forest in the heart of the Moteuka Valley, just 50 minutes from the town of Nelson, Stonefly Lodge offers luxury accommodation for guests looking to relax and enjoy fly-fishing in one of New Zealand's most beautiful regions. The lodge is situated between thr…

The Resurgence bush chalet, New Zealand

The Resurgence, Nelson and Abel Tasman

Traditional eco-accommodation

As one of the world’s 25 best eco-lodges according to the National Geographic Traveler, national park views, bush chalet accommodation and locavore dining make this a truly enticing option.

Atholwood view, New Zealand

Atholwood, Nelson and Abel Tasman

Small & intimate b&b

Genuine charm and a stunning location combine for this intimate property whose peninsula-fronting gardens are a true hideaway.

Meet our Nelson & Abel Tasman experts

Speak to a tailor-made specialist on 020 7590 0614

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Why book with Wexas Travel?

At Wexas, we specialise in bespoke travel experiences. Our itineraries are just samples of what we can arrange, and can be changed depending on your precise needs, finances and ideas by our experienced destination specialists.

Contact one of our consultants on 020 7590 0614 to discuss how we can tailor your holiday.

Learn why Wexas is the leader in creating luxury holidays. What is tailor-made travel?

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