The Ultimate Nelson Weekend Break
The top of the South Island has everything from an array of artists and galleries, three national parks, incredible beaches, walking and cycle trails. Nelson, Tasman is a must-visit destination at anytime of the year.
Head to Tāhunanui, Nelson for a weekend away with Bella Vista. Your Nelson accommodation is a short stroll to the popular Tāhunanui Beach and a short drive to Nelson city. You’ll be ready to go and explore Nelson and our region once you’re checked in.
Friday Afternoon
Whether you are flying into Nelson Airport or driving to Nelson, Tasman region, by following directions for Bella Vista Nelson will mean you will soon arrive at Tāhunanui - the only beachside suburb of Nelson. As you arrive, you will enjoy the choice of complimentary and convenient free parking, receive a friendly welcome, check-in will be a seamless affair and then you will be personally shown to your Qualmark endorsed quality studio room.
Your Nelson motel accommodation for the weekend ahead is located within a short stroll from Tāhunanui Beach. It’s the perfect base for you to explore Nelson, Richmond, Mapua, Motueka, Golden Bay and beyond. Once you’ve unpacked, it will be time to stroll down to the beach area for dinner at one of the many eateries.
Friday Evening
Weather permitting, you can’t beat good ol’ Kiwi fish n chips on the beach. Head across the road from the beach to the award-winning ‘The Sands Fish and Chip Shop’ and order your dinner, then enjoy on the beach as the sun goes down. They also offer gluten-free options too.
Or, if you prefer to dine in, no trip to Nelson is complete without dinner at The Boat Shed Café. Situated on the iconic Nelson waterfront, this dining experience is a must! This is true waterfront, in fact the restaurant is built over the water with views over the harbour, to the lighthouse. A truly memorable dining experience in Nelson.
Saturday Morning
Start your day strolling around the famous Nelson Market, recognised for its fine produce and quality artistry. Every Saturday morning for more than 40 years, Nelson Market has welcomed visitors to discover a unique creative showcase from fresh produce to gourmet foods, clothing, homewares, jewellery, plants and flowers and everything in-between. You will easily fill in a few hours strolling around the rows and rows of stalls.
Saturday Afternoon
If you haven’t taken advantage of the many food trucks at the Nelson Market for breakfast, brunch or lunch then we suggest making your way back to Tāhunanui for lunch at the Tahuna Breakfast Club, they have a small but delicious menu offering breakfast or lunch and incredible coffee. The staff are super friendly, you can sit inside or outside, the relaxed vibe will keep you there for a coffee or two!
After lunch you then need to decide if you’re up for a walk to the Centre of New Zealand or a leisurely stroll around Queen’s Gardens, then onto the Suter Gallery or we would suggest do both!
The short 20-minute uphill walk to the Centre of New Zealand is under the canopy of popular and kauri trees will land you at the viewing platform. The panoramic views over Nelson, Tasman Bay, and the mountain ranges are spectacular. Queen’s Gardens is a more sedate stroll, featuring various intimate gardens, a water wheel, sculptures and bridges, the perfect place to relax, watch the ducks, and listen to the bird song.
Saturday Evening
Tonight, head towards Tāhunanui Beach to one of the many eateries close to the beach. Whether its burger and beers, Indian, Thai, Pizza or other great New Zealand cuisine, leave your car at the motel and take the short walk to the dining experience of your choice.
Sunday Morning
After checking out of your Bella Vista Nelson motel, you have a few hours left to appreciate this wonderful area.
You may choose to relax and enjoy another of the fabulous cafes or our top picks before you depart Nelson are:
- Māpua Wharf - a favourite of ours, a quaint seaside village just 30 minutes’ drive.
- Nelson Provincial Museum - explore the rich heritage of Nelson, Tasman region.
- Nelson Classic Car Museum - more than 150 cars from more than 120 years of motoring
- Historic South Street – NZs oldest fully preserved street in Nelson with cobblestone paths, quaint Victorian cottages, and lantern streetlights.
- Brook Waimārama Sanctuary – the largest haven for endangered plants and creatures in the South Island. The Sanctuary offers 15km of public walking tracks, you may not have time to enjoy them all but do visit next time you are in Nelson.
When you book your weekend away at Bella Vista Nelson, we know you won’t have time to experience everything Nelson, Tasman has to offer, so come and enjoy what you can, then plan your return visit.
We look forward to hosting you and providing you a fabulous Nelson accommodation experience.
To book a weekend away with accommodation, flights, transfers and a few extra activities, contact the Bella Vista Travel Club: [email protected]