Nelson to Nelson Road Trips

Marlborough Sounds
Motuara-lookout

Nelson to Nelson
Marlborough/Tasman (2-4 days)

Nelson (Whakatū) is a lively city on the northwestern edge of New Zealand’s South Island, well known for its high sunshine hours, flourishing arts scene, and coastal landscapes.

Nelson Airport is located 7 kilometres southwest of Nelson Central, connecting the Nelson-Tasman region to major centres across the country.

Multiple rental car providers operate check-in booths located inside the main arrivals area.

Great breakfast cafe, Hardy St Eatery.
Nelson Saturday Market, our story.
Favourite place to eat, The Styx.

Nelson - Havelock 79km, 1hr10min
Stop at The Coffee House in Rai Valley

Havelock - Picton 33km, 45min
Via Queen Charlotte Drive, coastal scenic route Marlborough Sounds.
Stay the night in Picton area
Half-day early morning trip to Motuara Island with Beachcomber Cruises.
Lunch at Le Cafe.

Picton - St Arnaud (Nelson Lakes National Park), 128km, 1hr35min
Via Marlborough vineyards, visit Cloudy Bay Vineyard.
Stay the night in St Arnaud.
Visit the visitor centre before walking/tramping in the National Park.

St Arnaud to Mārahau (Abel Tasman National Park), 114km, 1hr40min
Mārahau to Kaiterireri, 10km, 25min
Stay the night (we like Kimi Ora Eco Resort)
and explore this beautiful coastal National Park the following day.
Our Abel Tasman walking/kayaking story.

Kaiteriteri to Māpua, 31km, 38min
Māpua to Nelson, 32km, 32min