1 Day in Nelson, New Zealand: An Itinerary
Although classed as a city, when you’re spending 1 day in Nelson, it feels as though you’ve been transported to an old village town because of the relaxation and quaintness. Not to mention the friendly locals!
Nelson isn’t a very big place yet I’ve returned to this region multiple times. It was my first stop before going on a week road trip around the South Island and most recently during a holiday to New Zealand.
If you’re looking to do 1 day in Nelson, this New Zealand travel blog can help you discover the Tasman region as well as recommendations for where to stay in Nelson.
Disclosure: This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning, at no extra cost to you, I may earn commission if you click through and make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see my Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.
Contents
Contents (jump to)
How to Get to Nelson
Nelson is located within Tasman Bay in the northern part of New Zealand’s South Island. This is truly a beautiful part of the world (as is the majority of New Zealand) and somewhere you definitely should visit on your New Zealand travels.
Nelson has a main airport just 10 minutes from the centre of town. It’s a small airport with connecting flights to all over New Zealand. I arrived here from Christchurch which takes just over an hour.
From the airport, you can get an easy bus or taxi into Nelson’s main area to explore and if you’re tight for time and want to see Nelson for 1 day, this is just the NZ itinerary for you.
What to See in Nelson in 1 Day
Can you see Nelson in 1 day? The answer is yes and follow this Nelson guide for some of the best options to explore the Tasman area. Given that Nelson is quite a small place, there are many things to see with just 1 day in Nelson.
1. Stroll Along the Maitai River
Start your day trip to Nelson by strolling near the Maitai River. The peaceful stream will find you heading to central Nelson and you can even do some fishing here.
2. Get a New Zealand Pie
You’re on holiday to Nelson so don’t worry about the time, get as many New Zealand pies as you can because they’re incredible! A long debate has been had between whether Australia or New Zealand have the better pies and in my opinion, NZ takes the crown.
Stop off at a dairy (local shop) and get a NZ pie. Make sure it’s homemade so it’s on the hot counter and not out of a packet and enjoy.
3. Tahunanui Beach
Head to Nelson’s beach suburb for water-based activities such as stand paddle boards, kite and wind surfing, swimming or general beach fun. When going from Tahunanui beach to the centre of Nelson, this could be your chance to see dolphins in Nelson if you’re lucky!
Find accommodation near Tahunanui Beach.
4. Centre of New Zealand
The best place to start your afternoon would be the centre of Nelson. Even better, how about the centre of New Zealand? It’s been debated whether its geographically the centre of the country, but hey ho let’s go with it anyway! The place is actually located at the top of a botanical hill in the Maitai Valley and is a pleasant (and fairly easy) walk. There’s stunning views along the walk and at the top you can marvel over Tasman.
5. Rugby in Nelson
Make sure before or after your walk to the Centre of New Zealand you start at The Reserve because this is a place of history.
One of the best New Zealand facts is that it’s famous for the All Blacks, arguably the best Rugby team in the world, and the first ever rugby game played in New Zealand was held right here in Nelson in 1870!
6. Christ Church Cathedral
In the middle of town is the Nelson Cathedral and surrounding gardens. Perfect for a stroll up the stairs leading to the bell tower for a picturesque part of Nelson.
7. Coffee at Fords
I love trying coffee in the local cafes wherever I visit and stopped by Fords for a cuppa during my Nelson day trip.
8. Nelson Provincial Museum / Pupuri Taonga O Te Tai Ao
Nelson Provincial Museum is a regional gallery, free for residents of Tasman/Nelson area and just $5 for visitors.
Visit here to learn about Nelson and Tasman region’s history, local story, Rugby, wildlife, early settlers and more.
Opening hours are from 10am until 5pm (4.30pm on weekends).
9. Beer / Cider at The Vic Mac’s Brewbar
New Zealand has more commercial breweries per capita than the US, UK or Australia according to Brewers Association. And Nelson has more breweries per capita than anywhere else in New Zealand so it’s safe to say they know how to craft a beer.
Mac’s is a local brewery making craft beer and crisp cider. I’m a cider-lover and New Zealand’s Mac’s is one of my favourite ciders in the world. Right in the middle of Nelson is The Vic Mac’s Brewbar, a local pub with a quaint back garden to enjoy your choice of beverage on a sunny afternoon in Nelson.
10. Dinner in Nelson
End the Nelson day trip with some food at Lone Star Cafe and Bar. Be warned, the portions are large but after all the walking and exploring, you’ll need it to round off this 1 day Nelson itinerary.
Where to Stay in Nelson
Click below for the best budget stays in Nelson and it will take you to booking.com site:
The Prince Albert Backpackers & Bar
Thanks for reading my 1 Day in Nelson Guide!
Other Posts You May Like:
- Great Ocean Road 2 Day Itinerary: An Australia Must-Do!
- The Ultimate Borneo Wildlife Safari
- What is Melbourne Culture?
- Best Food in Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Vietnam 1 Month Itinerary
- How to Explore London, England
Like this Nelson 1 Day Itinerary Post? Please pin it!
One Comment