Nelson is a wonderful place to stay – all year round!  Not only the geographical centre of the country but the venue for the first game of  rugby played in New Zealand, way back in 1870.

To reach the Centre of New Zealand will take 20-60 minutes, depending on your age, speed and fitness.  The main track is suitable for sturdier pushchairs and buggies.  You’ll find a stunning view over the city at the top and views up the Maitai Valley.    Take a seat and pick out the features of Nelson’s geography from the information panels.   There are a number of other ways down including heading along the hillside to Walters Bluff.   After the walk, have a swim at Black Hole and take the Maitai Track back to your starting point.

There is a myriad of things to take in around the city including the renowned Suter Art Gallery and the Provincial Museum.   Tucked behind the Cathedral are the South Street cottages – take a fascinating wander around the first Nelson houses dating back to 1863.

Don’t miss the famous Classic Car Museum in Stoke. Founders Heritage Park also shouldn’t be missed – children will love it.

The Saturday Market in Montgomery Square is a must do at weekends.

To relax go to the famous and beautiful sandy Tahunanui Beach with playgrounds, Natureland Zoo, café and many other attractions.

Nelson has a great climate, consistently winning the Record Sunshine Hours in New Zealand.  This makes the area ideal for growing grapes and so some of the best wines in the country are produced here.   Don’t miss going on a popular guided wine tour.

To visit Nelson region is to discover azure skies and wide open spaces, beaches and lakes, spectacular national parks and unique land forms, vineyards and gourmet cafes, artists and galleries, entrepreneurs, boutique shopping experiences and great events…a uniquely Nelson way of life.   Check out what is happening in our region at  www.itson.co.nz – regular events take place nearly every month of the year.

Cable Bay is a beautiful place to go.  The bay takes its name from New Zealand’s first overseas cable link to Australia, which was opened on 21 February 1876.  Away from the madding crowd you can kayak, swim, walk the Cable Bay Walkway or just enjoy a cup of coffee in the little café.

Nelson offers a wide variety of excellent restaurants.  Whatever your palette – European, Oriental, Seafood, Steaks, Indian, Turkish or just traditional “Fush & Chups” – it’s all here. Speak to us for advice or help with reservations.

Nelson is also a great location to explore the whole top of the South Island (Te Wai Pounamu).  Within an hour’s drive is the Abel Tasman National Park, Kahurangi National Park, Nelson Lakes National Park or the unique Marlborough Sounds and only two hours away is the eclectic Golden Bay.

To book any of activities or find out more visit the local i-site or speak to  Reception at the Harbourside Lodge.

Harbourside Lodge – your motel accommodation in Nelson