Activities
You can have the best of both worlds... easy walking distance to the city centre and the great outdoors on your doorstep. As well as walking, biking, swimming and scenic areas, there are many other attractions and activities within easy driving distance.
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On foot: You can wander into town along Willow Walk, a pretty path beside the Brook stream. If you want something more challenging The Centre of New Zealand, lookout provides a panoramic view over Nelson. Start your ascent from the Botanics Sports Field where the first Rugby game in New Zealand was played.
The extensive Maitai track which runs beside the Maitai river is very pretty and in summer you can cool off in one of the many swimming holes along the way.
The Grampians walking tracks can be accessed off nearby Collingwood Street. Suitable for people with moderate fitness, they afford views of the city, the harbour and surrounding valleys.
By car: Tahunanui Beach, Rabbit Island, and Cable Bay are all good swimming beaches only a short drive away. Aniseed and Lee Valley are popular swimming and picnic spots.
Some popular day trips include Kaiteriteri, Golden Bay, Abel Tasman, Kahurangi and Nelson Lakes National Parks. Tour operators from the Abel Tasman have buses that will transfer you from the door.
