With some of New Zealand’s best beaches at its doorstep, world-class cycle trails and a bounty of local food producers, it’s no wonder the Nelson Tasman region has earned a reputation as a desired destination for nature and food-loving travellers.
Drink
The Nelson Tasman region has established itself as the hops capital of Aotearoa, with 20 varieties of hops grown in the region alone. Keen craft beer brewers make the most of this, with breweries serving up their own unique takes on pale ales, lagers and stouts. The taproom at McCashin’s Brewery in Stoke is well worth checking out, and offers brewery tours Tuesday to Friday. Nearby, the Eddyline Brewery and Taproom has a fantastic range of craft beers on tap, as well as its own taqueria.
The Free House has its own ‘nano’ brewery, along with a range of craft beers from around the country, and gained climate positive status through Ekos in 2020.
If you prefer a sauvignon blanc over a pale ale, why not explore the many fantastic wineries in the region? Neudorf Vineyards in the Moutere Hills has a lovely cellar door that opens Monday to Friday, where you can sample their varieties in the wine garden alongside a thoughtfully crafted picnic. The family-run Riwaka River Estate is a boutique vineyard where you can sample delicious wines and homegrown olive oil. Tastings are run by appointment only.
Take home
Be sure to fill your suitcase with local artisan goods to remember your trip. Pic’s Peanut Butter, Neudorf Black’s black garlic range, Chia Sisters superfood drinks and Hogarth Chocolate are just some of the fantastic food producers in the region. Running every Saturday, Nelson Market (below) is a great place to meet the region’s passionate producers and pick up some treats for the journey home.
Eat
Tucked down Nelson’s New Street and boasting a leafy courtyard, Deville is a delightful eatery serving lunch classics and hosts live music events. Be enticed by the smells of freshly roasted beans at Sublime Roastery and Brew Bar, the coffee roasters’ flagship spot.
The iconic Boat Shed Café boasts fine fare to match its fantastic views over Wakefield Quay. Opt for the ‘Trust the Chef’ tasting menu and enjoy delicious seafood. Meanwhile, East St. is a hidden gem serving a fully plant-based menu and hosting gigs.
Abel Tasman National Park is a must-visit destination when visiting the area – even in winter, its white- sand beaches and crystal-clear waters feel like a tropical oasis. On your way out there, be sure to stop at Toad Hall in Motueka. Starting out as a real-fruit ice cream stall on Kaiteriteri Beach, Toad Hall has grown into a foodie destination, with an all-day eatery and deli serving fresh produce, baked goods and artisan treats.
Meanwhile, Nelson’s main street, Trafalgar Street, is full of great alfresco dining options, lined by colourful planter boxes.
Great Taste Trail
One of the best ways to sample the culinary delights of Nelson Tasman is on two wheels along the Great Taste Trail. The trail is specially designed to showcase the stunning landscapes and rich variety of food and drink producers that the region has to offer. Covering 200km of scenic trails, you can choose to tackle the entire trail on a multi-day cycle, or go at a slower pace, enjoying the many fantastic food and drink destinations along the way. Moturoa/Rabbit Island offers gorgeous coastal views along its easy-going cycle trail, with the opportunity to stop at the charming seaside town of Mapua. Here, you can find fabulous grub at The Apple Shed, primely located on the Mapua Wharf, or head to The Junction Cheese Shop in Richmond and hand select your own picnic.
Heading inland, the trail winds past stunning hop plantations in Kohātu, which sits along the banks of the Motueka River. A more challenging stretch of the trail runs from Tapawera up through the Baton Saddle, past blackcurrant orchards and trout-filled rivers, with the stunning backdrop of Kahurangi National Park.
Stay
Located in the heart of Nelson and with modern rooms overlooking Maitai River, Tides Hotel is the perfect base for discovering the town and surrounding areas. If you’re planning on exploring Abel Tasman National Park (below), you can’t get much closer than the Abel Tasman Lodge, located at the edge of the park and offering chalets in a beautiful garden setting. Or opt for a luxurious stay at Awaroa Lodge, situated right in the heart of the national park at Awaroa Bay.
The nearby Rabbit Island Huts offer peaceful and luxurious eco stays. For an off-the-beaten path experience, stay at one of Baton Run’s backcountry huts. Host Richard Lublow sometimes offers guests the chance to hear a private poetry performance.
