6 Top Nelson Tasman Must-Do's

The sun shines brightly on all those who visit the Nelson Tasman region. Quite literally. Home to more sunshine hours than any other South Island district, blue skies, beaches and buoyant small towns present the most idyllic canvas for non-stop adventure and indulgence.

© AA Traveller 2021

1. Cable Bay Adventure Park

Cable Bay Adventure Park Skywire © George Guille

Home to one of the world’s longest flying foxes – the Skywire. This four-seater contraption hovers 300 metres above ground, catapulting plucky passengers through the air at 100km per hour.

2. The Suter Art Gallery

Suter Gallery, Nelson © www.nelsontasman.nz

Mixing works by famous Kiwi masters to the relatively unknown, admire a diverse range of art. The food in the garden café is as exquisite as the exhibits. Free entry.

3. Split Apple Rock

Waka, Split Apple Rock © Waka Abel Tasman

The most insta-famous rock in New Zealand, this giant orb is perfectly split in half. Sail to this ‘rockstar’ by cruise, kayak or waka, or snap it from the shoreline via the Towers Bay walking track.

4. Te Waikoropupū Springs

Te Waikoropupū Springs © Craig Parry / www.nelsontasman.nz

A 10-minute drive from Tākaka, you won’t find clearer water. Even at its deepest (63m), the clarity is shockingly glass-like. The springs are sacred to Māori, who ask visitors to refrain from eating, drinking, smoking or making contact with the water.

5. Farewell Spit

Farewell Spit © NelsonNZ.com

Huge dunes form a landing strip for thousands of shore birds (and over 90 species) that have migrated from the northern hemisphere. At 35km-long, the sandspit is a phenomenal sight but access is limited due to tide times. Eco-tours depart both Collingwood and Pūponga.

6. Buller Gorge Swing Bridge

At 110 metres in length, the longest swing bridge in New Zealand sways over the stroppy Buller River. Part of the Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure and Heritage Park.

Cometline © Buller Gorge Swingbridge

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