Hotels in Nelson

Exploring Nelson

Visit the tumbling waters of the Takaka freshwater springs, or commandeer a kayak to explore the rocky, open coastline. Hike into the mountain ranges, following twisting trails that undulate with the land, or relax in elegant restaurants, sampling freshly caught Nelson Bay scallops straight from the sea. Nelson is cool, and hip, and trendy, with an upmarket approach to hospitality. Designer hotels sit next to Maori art galleries and golden sandy beaches stretch into the distance.

Accommodations in Nelson

Most hotels in Nelson sit in the mid-to-high price range, clustering in the center of town, or lining the coast and gazing across the glittering waters of tranquil Ruby Bay. The cheapest Nelson hotels have a motel-feel, and usually offer private entrances, double or twin beds, and complimentary car parking, while the luxury hotels in Nelson go all out to impress with extravagant decor and delicious views. You’ll find some of these exclusive hotels located outside the town boundaries, sitting on private landscaped grounds. Amenities typically include satellite televisions, decadent en-suite bathrooms, and WiFi. Recommended cheap accommodations in Nelson are The Sails Nelson and Trailways Hotel Nelson.

Sightseeing in Nelson

The broad, flat sands of the Tahunanui Beach Reserve have long been popular with holiday-makers who flock to swim in the gloriously blue waters of the Tasman Bay, or relax on loungers as the gentle sea breeze takes the heat out of the afternoon sun. Trendy cafés overlook the surf, selling freshly brewed coffee and tempting flavors of ice cream to passers-by. Nearby, Founders Park is a vast expanse of flat, green land, dominated by the lofty white rugby poles that stand at either end. You can wander through here from the beach, making your way to the Founders Heritage Park on the other side, an intriguing collection of quaint original town buildings that were once home to the forefathers of this thriving community. You can buy freshly baked artisan rolls, hand kneaded the old-fashioned way, or pick up some colorful trinkets and unique souvenirs of your trip from the historic town shop. In addition, amongst the must-visit tourist attractions in Nelson are Nelson Market, Natureland Zoo, and Nelson Provincial Museum.

Transportation in Nelson

Nelson Airport is a decent-sized regional airstrip, and although it’s capable of receiving international flights, it doesn’t accept any commercial airlines from abroad. The nearest airfield for international arrivals to Nelson, is at Christchurch, and that’s a 5 hour drive by car. The route is worth the effort though, winding like it does through the startling beauty of the Nelson Lakes National Park. You can stop at various scenic outlooks along the way, taking in the dramatic peaks of the mountains as their sweeping flanks disappear below the water of crystal clear lakes. If you don’t have the time to spend on the road, connecting flights between the two airports take only 50 minutes.