Things to do in Marlborough & Nelson
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A
U-fly Extreme
Here's one for the courageous: you handle the controls doing aerobatics in an open cockpit Pitts Special plane. No experience necessary, just a stomach for stunts.
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.
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B
Tasman Sky Adventures
A rare opportunity to fly in a microlight. Keep your eyes open and blow your mind on a scenic flight above Abel Tasman National Park. Wow. And there’s tandem hang gliding for the eager (15/30 minutes, 2500ft/5280ft $185/275).
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Mt Robert Circuit Track
This five-hour track starts south of St Arnaud and circumnavigates the mountain, with options for a side trip along Robert Ridge.
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Tasman Helicopters
A host of chopper flights and tours, including D’Urville Island, trout fishing, lunch tours and flights over Farewell Spit, and Kahurangi and Abel Tasman National Parks.
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Simply Wild
A swathe of half- to five-day active wilderness adventures: walking, mountain biking, sailing, caving, rafting and canoeing around Nelson’s national parks. Prices on application.
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Sail Nelson
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Wine, Art & Wilderness
Upmarket wine, scenic and nature tours around Nelson, Marlborough, Golden Bay and the West Coast.
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Nelson Hang Gliding Adventures
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Kite Surf Nelson
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Kitescool
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JJ’s Quality Tours
Scenic, wine-focused and craft tours, plus a half-day brewery trail.
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Hang Gliding New Zealand
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Cat Sailing & Launch Charters
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Biking Nelson
Hit the hillside mountain-bike trails with Dave and company, who run guided rides (all gear provided) and offer freedom rental and advice.
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Bay Tours
Nelson city, region, wine, beer, food and art tours. The full-day scenic tour includes a visit to Kaiteriteri and a cruise in Abel Tasman National Park.
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Avocado Adventures
Personalised small-group adventures around the region.
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Top Spot Seal Swim
Two-hour guided snorkelling tours.
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C
South Street Workers' Cottages
Just west of the Christ Church Cathedral, South Street contains a row of improbably quaint workers’ cottages, built between 1863 and 1867: those in the know say it’s the oldest fully intact street in NZ. Some cottages are available as accommodation.
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D
Pier Hotel
Wide views of bay and the mountains beyond make this the grandest dining room in town. A cheerful crew serves up generous portions of honest food, such as fresh local fish, baby back spare ribs and bbq crayfish for those with fat wallets. The enticing public bar has reasonably priced beer and bar snacks, historical photos and a garden bar. Upstairs lodgings are worn and creaky, but good value (double room, including breakfast, from $115).
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Nelson Paragliding
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E
Monty’s Sunday Market
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Maori Tours Kaikoura
Fascinating half-day, small-group tours laced with Maori hospitality and local lore. Visit historic sites, hear legends and learn indigenous use of trees and plants. Advance bookings required.
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