How to get to Nelson

Nelson is one of the sunniest and most vibrant cities in New Zealand, located at the top of the South Island. Washed by the waters of Tasman Bay, this region is famous for its golden beaches, magnificent landscapes, and unique creative atmosphere. The city has long been a centre of attraction for artists, craftspeople, and art lovers, offering guests a multitude of galleries, colourful markets, and festivals.

Beyond its rich cultural life, Nelson serves as the ideal starting point for exploring the region's natural wonders, including the famous Abel Tasman National Park. Travellers will find excellent opportunities for hiking, kayaking in turquoise bays, and relaxing in the fresh air. The combination of a mild climate, picturesque orchards, and inviting cafes makes this city a wonderful place for an inspiring holiday.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the region is by air. Nelson Airport (NSN) is located just a few kilometres from the city centre and is considered one of the busiest regional aviation hubs in the country.

The airport receives regular domestic flights from major cities such as Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Thanks to frequent air connections, travellers can easily connect their itinerary if arriving via international flights at New Zealand's main airports. The modern terminal ensures a comfortable arrival, and the proximity to the city allows you to be at your hotel within 15–20 minutes of landing.

There is no direct railway connection to the city, as Nelson does not have a train station. However, this does not prevent you from including a train ride in your itinerary: many travellers take the railway to neighbouring transport hubs, enjoying the scenic views of the South Island along the way.

The nearest stations accepting passenger trains are located in the towns of Picton and Blenheim. From there, you can comfortably reach your destination via regular buses or a rental car, driving through the beautiful valleys and agricultural landscapes of the region.

Bus travel in New Zealand is noted for high comfort, and the route to Nelson is no exception. Most often, tourists arrive here from the port town of Picton immediately after the ferry crossing; covering the 140-kilometre journey takes about two and a half hours. The road winds among green hills and reveals breathtaking views of the coast, turning a standard transfer into a small excursion.

Another popular and fast option is the trip from neighbouring Blenheim, which lasts just one and a half to two hours and passes through the famous landscapes of the Marlborough region. Travellers from Wellington face a combined route: after a picturesque crossing of the Cook Strait by ferry, they transfer to a bus in Picton to complete their journey at the top of the South Island.

A scenic drive by car from the port of Picton to Nelson takes about two hours. The 140-kilometre route runs through green valleys and along the coast, delighting travellers with magnificent views. The road from the scenic town of Blenheim is even shorter: just an hour and a half journey on State Highway 6 separates guests of the region from their destination.

For those driving from Wellington, an exciting ferry crossing across the Cook Strait with their vehicle awaits. Self-driving gives travellers the freedom of choice: you can move at your own pace and make stops in the most photogenic spots. It is worth noting that taxi services or private transfers between cities can be costly, so renting a car remains the most popular and convenient option for exploring the South Island.

To ensure your trip to Nelson is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth considering a few important nuances in advance. We have gathered practical recommendations that will help you easily navigate this sunny corner of the country.

1. Clothing and Sun Protection. Even if the forecast promises warmth, the weather in New Zealand is changeable. Bring a windbreaker and clothing that can be worn in layers. Most importantly, be sure to use high SPF sunscreen and wear a hat, as the sun here is very active, and sunburn can occur even on a cloudy day.
2. Transport and Movement. The city centre is compact and pleasant to explore on foot. However, for trips to Abel Tasman National Park or distant beaches, it is better to rent a car. If you do not plan to drive, use the eBus system, which connects the city with the suburbs of Richmond and Stoke.
3. Finances and Payment. The local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, from restaurants to taxis and souvenir shops. Cash may be useful mainly for small purchases at farmers' markets, although tipping is not mandatory here.
4. Health and Safety. Nelson is a safe city, but one should be attentive in nature. The main annoyance for tourists can be sandflies near bodies of water. Ordinary mosquito sprays are often ineffective against them, so it is better to purchase a local repellent at a pharmacy or supermarket. The single emergency number is 111.
5. Communication and Language. The official language is English, but locals often use words from the Māori language. Do not be surprised by the greeting "Kia ora" (hello) — it is a sign of friendliness. English here has its specific accent and slang, but locals treat tourists with understanding and are always ready to repeat things more slowly.
6. Local Etiquette. New Zealanders (Kiwis) are very open, polite, and informal. It is customary to greet bus drivers when entering and thank them when exiting. Respecting queues and personal space is also an important part of the culture.
7. What to Avoid. It is strictly forbidden to leave rubbish in nature — locals are very protective of the environment. Also, avoid feeding wild birds and animals so as not to disturb the natural balance. Be careful when swimming at wild beaches: always check information about currents.
8. Additional Tip. Try to plan your stay to include a Saturday morning. The Nelson Market is a legendary place where you can buy unique wool and wood products, taste local delicacies, and truly feel the creative atmosphere of the city.

By following these simple recommendations, you can avoid unnecessary hassles and focus on the main thing — enjoying the beauty, art, and hospitality of this amazing region.