Nelson And Motueka

The Nelson Motueka Tasman region is situated at the north-western end of New Zealand’s South Island surrounded by the sea boasting beautiful bays and coastal scenery through to mountains which form the northern tip of the magnificent Southern Alps.

Our region has everything for you to enjoy, literally at your fingertips and you will find yourself surrounded by beautiful scenery wherever you go in our wonderful region.

Our region is also well known for its thriving arts community and also award winning wineries, olive oils, jewellery, art, craft and cafes to explore, all within 45 minutes drive from Kanuka Ridge Abel Tasman Backpackers. Motueka and Nelson both have weekend markets where it is possible to by art, crafts and fresh food directly form the producers.

Festivals include the Mask Parade, Opera in the Park, Jazz in the Park, Buskers, Arts Festival, Taste Nelson, Marchfest, Cherry Blossom Festival and the Ecofest to name a few. www.nelsonfestivals.co.nz for more information.

World of Wearable Art & Classic Cars Museum is located close to Nelson airport about 50 minutes drive from Marahau. Displayed are garments from the World of Wearable Art competition which started in 1987 and is held each year and with hundreds of entries from around the world.

Each garment contains hours of energy, passion, skill and creativity entered under such categories as the “Bizarre Bra” section, “Illumination Illusion” Section, “Avant Garde “ Section or the “South Pacific”  Section.

It is well worth spending a few hours admiring these displays of creative genius as well as the 50 classic cars and motorcycles on display.  www.worldofwearableart.com  for more information.

Nelson city has a population of 44,000 while the whole Nelson Tasman regions population combined is 92,000 people.