The region takes in sweeping beaches, fertile farmlands and lush native forest, mountains and crystal clear lakes.

It is a place where you will find artists and craftspeople, Maori marae, farm and orchard settlements, alternative communities and adventurers enjoying more sunshine hours than any other region in New Zealand.

Abel Tasman National Park

The Abel Tasman National Park coastal track is world-renowned for it’s beauty and accessibility, just 20-40 minutes drive from The Lodge at Paratiho Farms, or take a spectacular scenic helicopter or fixed wing flight over the many beaches and bays, touching down at secluded Awaroa Bay www.kaiteriteriboatcharters.co.nz, where you can enjoy a beautiful lunch and maybe take a swim or a stroll.

The Park is well known for its sea kayaking, perhaps you may want to explore the magnificent coastline in this way, if so there are many options available - a combination of walking and kayaking, a full days kayaking, or a water taxi up the park and kayaking back. If the wind is good you can put up the sails www.sailingcharters.co.nz, relax and take in the views! The track is well maintained with mainly a gentle grade, there are many walking options depending on time and fitness www.abeltasman.co.nz.

A launch or water taxi can drop you off at any chosen spot and pick you up further along, or alternatively you may wish to helicopter in, and walk out, stopping at a beach along the way to enjoy your picnic lunch on the golden sand. We can easily organise a private guide for the day, whether you are walking, kayaking, sailing, or taking a launch, we’ll ensure that you have everything that you need for the day. The National Park is not just a summer-only region, in winter the days are sunny, calm and clear, ideal for any activity that your heart desires!

Art in its own place

Painters, sculptors, ceramic artists, jewellers and more ... live and create throughout the Nelson region. Meeting the artist who painted the picture or the winemaker who crafted the vintage is one of Nelson’s unique experiences www.wineart.co.nz.

Start by buying Nelson’s cultural explorer’s guide, The Nelson Guide Book - ‘Art in Its Own Place’ www.nelsonarts.org.nz from good bookstores and the Nelson i-SITE Visitor Centre www.nelsonnz.com and follow the art trails through picturesque countryside.

World of Wearableart and Collectable Cars Museum

The WearableArt phenomenon is now an internationally celebrated event. Winning entries from the shows live exclusively in Nelson at the World of WearableArt and Collectable Cars Museum. The juxtaposition of incredible garments with classic cars in one museum is a winning combination. www.wearableart.co.nz