Nelson Town
(population 53.000)Nelson is located at Tasman Bay. It is a surprisingly nice place to visit. It is an active place from which you can very well explore the Nelson area. The town is known for its art and craft galleries, café’s and restaurants. Furthermore the town has many nice public gardens, a central city cathedral and some beautiful historic houses.
Outdoor
Tramping
Gardens of the world, Isel Park-, Miyazu Japanese- and Botanic Gardens. It is worth wandering around these parks, gardens. Especially in February, at that time “all” the flowers are flourishing.
Culture and Entertainment
Cultural activities
Mccashin’s Brewery and Malthouse
This is known as Mac’s Brewery and is most of the Nelson beer drinkers their favorite. It is worth taking a brewery tour and to taste the different beers.
Cultural buildings or places
Christ Church Cathedral
Building this cathedral started in 1925, it took many years to finish it. Completion took place in 1965.
Founders Historic Park
This park includes a replica of a historic village. This artificial village consists of vintage vehicles, jade and silver jeweller, a children’s playground, café, brewery and a collection of ships in bottles.
Isel House
In Isel Park Gardens you will come across a house; Isel House. This historic house is worth visiting.
Festivals
Arts Festival
This festival is held every September. The event contains for example a masked carnival parade and theater.
Nelson Jazz Festival
This festival takes place in December, annually. New Zealand’s Jazz musicians gather in Nelson and play their (best) repertoires.
Galleries
Montana World of Wearable Art Award and WOW Gallery
This art award competition is held every September in Nelson town. The competition is held over six nights. If you visit Nelson without the competition taking place it is worth visiting the World of Wearable (WOW) Art Gallery.
South St Gallery
This gallery is known for its extensive collection of pottery.
Museums
The Nelson Provincial Museum
This museum exists since 1842 and gives access to the region’s interesting History.
The Suter Te Aratoi o Whakatu
This is Nelson’s region’s art museum. In this museum you will learn about the visual arts heritage of the region.