TASMAN-NELSON
The golden sand at Kaiteriteri Beach
Hole in the rock at Wharariki Beach
The Tasman-Nelson region of the South Island includes stunning scenery, fantastic beaches, forests, all in some of New Zealand's best climate.
Nelson is famous for it's local artists and crafts people, it great climate and horticulture. Explore the local markets and watch skilled glass-blowers create beautiful objects.
If you want to escape from urban life, it's only a short drive to the Able Tasman National Park where you can get lost for days. Explore golden sand beaches, take a boat ride around the many little bays, or walk through the forest tracks.
But if you really want to escape, drive over the Takaka Ridge to Golden Bay. Tiny towns scattered along the coast, isolated beaches, convoluted rock formations, great fishing, an old school house that is now a really nice cafe.
There is much for the motor caravanner to explore in Tasman-Nelson. It's not a location to rush through. It's not visitor focussed, and you need to take time to get to know each location. Talk to the people living there, and swap stories with other travellers.
Walking track out to the Hawkes Lookout