The Nelson Bays region sits at the top of the South Island, blessed with the sunniest climate in New Zealand. It is a fruit-growing region backed by forested hills, with long golden-sand beaches along Tasman Bay and a relaxed, outdoorsy character.
Nelson is the main town — a compact, artsy city named after the British admiral, with a remarkable concentration of galleries, studios, and the World of WearableArt museum. Nearby Richmond is the commercial centre of the Waimea Plains, while Motueka to the west is the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park, one of New Zealand's most popular coastal walks.
Three national parks define the region's outdoor life. Kahurangi to the west is New Zealand's second-largest park, home to the Heaphy Track. Nelson Lakes to the south is quieter and more alpine, with glacial lakes and excellent birdwatching in its predator-controlled forest sanctuary.
