Nelson is an amazing destination to visit, and locking in a cheap car hire deal is the best way to see everything it has to offer! Because once you’ve got yourself some wheels, you can plan your day trips and know that you’ll be able to get wherever you want to be, at the time that suits you best.
So, where should you go once you’re in town? Well, that depends on what you (and your travel companions) are interested in! Here’s a few suggestions to get you started.
For the art curator
Renowned for its art, heritage and culture, Nelson’s creative community thrives through its many events, galleries and programmes dotted about the region. Check out the Hoglund Glassblowing Studio, the Nelson Centre of Musical Arts, the Theatre Royal, The Suter Art Gallery, or simply follow an art trail map to see where it takes you. There’s also some very cool street art on display around Nelson and surrounding towns. You really are spoilt for choice when it comes to the creative arts in Nelson, with many of the local artists working in their studios – allowing for the opportunity to meet with them and chat about their craft.
For the adrenaline junky
If you’re looking for adventure, thrills and spills, you won’t be left hanging in Nelson (unless you want to be, of course). The SKYWIRE Experience is the world’s longest flying fox, and is actually one hell of an epic attraction. Get up to speeds of nearly 100 km/hour as you rocket up and down the Cable Bay hillside, through trees and valleys and take in the incredible views of the rolling hills of the Nelson countryside.
Or if you want your feet even further from the ground, how about a 16,500ft tandem skydive over the breathtaking Abel Tasman? You’ll experience up to 70 seconds of freefall, with speeds of up to 70 km/hour. Wow!
For the nature lover
If immersing yourself in nature is what you’re hoping to find in your next holiday destination, then you’re in luck. Nelson is on the doorstep of some of New Zealand’s most phenomenal scenery, and you can get right in amongst it too.
There’s the Heaphy Track or Abel Tasman Coast Track, the world’s clearest lake Lake Rotomairewhenua (the eighth natural wonder of the world), you could climb Mount Arthur or Mount Robert, or simply soak up the golden sand on some of New Zealand’s most pristine beaches. Just grab yourself a car hire in Nelson and you can get to where you need to on the map.
For the kids
There’s certainly no shortage of fun, family-friendly activities to do in Nelson. Visit Natureland Zoo and Wildlife Conservation Centre to get up close and personal with some wonderful furry friends, race the Pro Karts at Tahunanui Beach, jump the morning away at Pro Bounce trampoline world and in summer, the Nelson Fun Park is definitely worth a visit. Here you’ll find a hydro-slide, bumper boats and mini golf – the perfect way to spend an afternoon on holiday.
For the wine connoisseur
Fancy a few days checking out some of New Zealand’s top wineries? You’re well sorted here. Nelson’s warm, ocean-side climate produces freshly-scented sauvignon blanc and chardonnay, and lively pinot noir. The Nelson Tasman district is one of the smaller wine regions in the country, and this means at many of the cellar doors you’re more than likely to ‘meet the maker’.
If you’re keen to go further afield, Marlborough is less than two hours drive away – it’s New Zealand’s largest wine region. Don’t forget to book in that cheap rental car in Nelson, and then you’re ready to hit the road!
There’s no question that Nelson is a wonderful place for a holiday, no matter who you’re travelling alongside. With everything above, and so much more to see and do, make sure it’s on your travel bucket list.
Heading to Nelson for a holiday? Make sure you check out all of the awesome Lord of the Rings locations. Download our guide and check them off the list!
