Overview
Nelson, a pocket paradise nestled in the top northwest corner of the
South Island. 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).
Nelson is an area of great beauty lying between the northern edge of the
Southern Alps and a great sweep of beaches. The trademarks are stunning
scenery and a diverse culture that has blossomed in this area of rich
resources and easy climate.
You are never short of something to do in the Nelson region and you are
ensured of encountering many original characters amongst a vital network of
artists and craftspeople, Maori marae, farm and orchard settlements,
alternative communities and adventurers - friendly folk happy to share their
good life with you.
Key Attractions :
Suter Art Gallery
The Suter Art Gallery in the Queens Gardens, 208 Bridge Street, houses a
large permanent art collection noted for works by 19th century artists such
as Gully, Lindauer and Van der Velden; and a growing contemporary art
collection including landscapes by Sir Toss Woollaston. The exhibition
programme features a wide variety of work by significant local and national
artists. The gallery includes a craft shop, cinema and restaurant.
Broadgreen House
In Nayland Road, Stoke, Broadgreen House is a stately two-storied, cob
house built about 1855. The 11 rooms of Broadgreen, including the cellar,
have been restored and furnished to recapture the atmosphere of a family
home of the mid-1850's. Don't miss the Samuels Rose Garden in the grounds.
Melrose House
Melrose House, in Brougham Street, is one of the last surviving "grand"
homes of Nelson. It was designed by Mr J Scotland and built for Mr Charles
Fowell Willett Watts in about 1876. Melrose is now used in many ways by
numerous groups and organisations in the community, as well as for private
social functions.
The
other attractions included Takaka Hill, the dairying town of
Takaka picturesque at all times of year, the district has a large number of
exotic trees which are particularly colourful in autumn. Motueka , New
Zealand's only commercial plantations of hops and tobacco. Nelson's fresh
seafood and Takaka Hill Waikoropupu Springs are other important attractions.
Shopping :Shop till you drop!
The main shopping areas in Nelson are mostly contained within the central
blocks of the urban area. A varied range of goods are available, from the
commonplace through to the unusual. Open-air markets feature booths selling
anything from craft to cabbages. The main markets are held on Saturday and
Sunday 8am-1pm in Montgomery Square in Nelson, and in Motueka and Golden Bay
on Sundays. Other small markets are held at different times throughout the
region and are generally advertised in Visitor Information Centres and in
local newspapers.
Nelson – An Incredible Journey :
New Zealanders flock to Nelson because it has some of the South Island's
best beaches and sunniest weather. As a result, this town of 43,000 offers a
number of nice hotels and restaurants. Nelson is noted for its pottery and
other crafts, including Maori carvings, jewelry and weaving. Sights include
the Nelson Provincial Museum (Maori art, photography), Botanical Reserve
(great views from Botanical Hill) and Founders Park (historic buildings).
Nelson is also the nearest city to Abel Tasman National Park and a departure
point for trips there. In the surrounding region you'll find good trout
fishing.
