Activities in Nelson Region
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Neudorf
Moss-covered barnlike complex; gorgeous pinot noir and some of the country’s finest chardonnay.
reviewed
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A
Double Decker Experience
The Double Decker Experience is a handy way to get around and see the sights too. The bus departs the Suburban Bus Lines/InterCity depot twice daily and loops in and around Nelson, passing (among other sights) Founders Park, Isel Park, the World of WearableArt Museum, Tahunanui Beach and Nelson's waterfront. Stay onboard for an entire circuit, or get off at an attraction on the morning loop, then jump back on the afternoon service.
reviewed
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Happy Valley Adventures
Strap yourself onto a ‘skywire’ and soar through the air at Happy Valley Adventures, a 15-minute drive north-east along SH6. The 1.65km-long Skywire (a chairlift/flying-fox hybrid) dangles you up to 150m above the native forest; rides cost $85/55 per adult/child. Quad-bike tours start at $80/20 per driver/passenger for one-hour forest rides, and 2½-hour horse treks cost $95.
reviewed
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Mapua Leisure Park
This is ‘NZ’s only clothes-optional leisure park’ but you don’t have to nude-up, and the buff option is only available from February to March. It’s a bit ragged around the edges, but the location and swimming are sweet, and there are tennis and volleyball courts, kayak hire, pool, sauna, spa and a waterfront cafe.
reviewed
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Nelson Bonecarving
Artisic types will love Stephan’s bonecarving courses at Nelson Bonecarving. He’ll supply all materials, tools, instruction, encouragement and cups of tea (plus free pick-up/drop-off in town if needed); you supply inspiration and talent and you’ll emerge with your very own bone carving.
reviewed
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B
Skydive Abel Tasman
Take in eye-popping views on the way up (and pant-wetting views on the way down) on a tandem skydive with Skydive Abel Tasman . Prices include instruction and a certificate (DVDs and photos to show your mum cost extra); free pick-up/drop off from Motueka and Nelson.
reviewed
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Vertical Limits
reviewed
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Marahau Horse Treks
If you’re in an equine state of mind, Marahau Horse Treks on Sandy Bay Rd, offers you a chance to belt along the beach on a horse, your hair streaming out behind you (children’s pony rides $30 to $35, two-hour rides $80 to $85).
reviewed
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Pegasus Park
If you’re in an equine state of mind, Pegasus Park on Sandy Bay Rd, offers you the chance to belt along the beach on a horse, your hair streaming out behind you (children’s pony rides $30 to $35, two-hour rides $80 to $85).
reviewed
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Cable Bay Kayaks
Four kilometres down the road from Happy Valley Adventures is Cable Bay Kayaks, offering guided sea-kayaking trips (half-/full-day from $85/135) exploring the local coastline and marine life.
reviewed
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Stonehurst Farm Horse Treks
On solid ground, Stonehurst Farm Horse Treks, 22km south of town, offers kids’ pony rides, one-hour farm rides, 2½-hour sunset and ‘musterers’, and a half-day riverside ride.
reviewed
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Abel Tasman Mountain Biking
Abel Tasman Mountain Biking offers two-wheeled options for experiencing the Abel Tasman area, Kaiteriteri MTB Park, and Canaan Downs/Rameka Track.
reviewed
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Stewarts Avanti Plus Nelson
You can hire a bike from Stewarts Avanti Plus Nelson. City and mountain bikes, plus touring bikes, repairs and equipment.
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Abel Tasman Wilson’s Experiences
Impressive array of cruises, walks, kayak and combo tours. Luxurious beachfront lodges at Awaroa and Torrent Bay for guided-tour guests.
reviewed
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Woollaston
Multi-level winery set into the hillside with tussock roof, gallery and picturesque surrounds. Enjoy a platter on the lawn.
reviewed
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Seifried
One of the region’s biggest wineries, at the turn-off to Rabbit Island, and home to a pleasant garden restaurant.
reviewed
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F
Bike Tasman
Energetic and sane folk can hire bikes from Bike Tasman. Guided tours available (from $79).
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G
Riverside Pool
For swimming, head to Tahunanui Beach, 5km south of town, or the Riverside Pool .
reviewed
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Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures
A range of well-priced catamaran trips, plus private skippered charters.
reviewed
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U-fly Extreme
reviewed
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Travers–Sabine Circuit
The 80km five- to seven-day Travers–Sabine Circuit from St Arnaud is a tramp for the hardy and experienced, with backcountry skills essential.
reviewed
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Tasman Sky Adventures
Rather soar than plummet? Tasman Sky Adventures offers a rare opportunity to fly in a microlight. Keep your eyes open and blow your mind on its 30-minute scenic flight above Abel Tasman National Park ($155). Wow. And there’s tandem hang gliding for the eager (15/30 minutes, 2500ft/5280ft $185/275).
reviewed
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St Arnaud Range Track
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