Nelson City Guide 2026

THE OFFICIAL 2026 GUIDE TO NELSON CITY

Welcome to Nelson City Nelson City is a place full of unexpected delights.

Plan your day with this official guide and visit uniquelynelson.nz for the latest news and information.

Contents

Essential Services

Attractions & Activities..............3

Police, Fire and Ambulance 111 (Emergency)

Artists, Galleries & Museums... 6 Artists + Galleries Trail............ 10 Restaurants, Bars & Cafés.......12 Retail & Fashion...........................18 Health & Wellbeing ................. 20 Getting Around ........................... 21

Nelson Hospital/Emergency Dentist Tipahi St, T: 03 546 1800 Medical & Injury Centre 7 days 98 Waimea Rd, T: 03 546 8881 Nelson City Council Customer Service T: 03 546 0200 Public Toilets Buxton and Montgomery car parks, Millers Acre Morrison Square and 1903 Square.

City Map ......................................... 22 Simply choose "Nelson City Free WiFi" on your smart phone or device and enjoy FREE 50MB per day per device!

Shop, dine, and experience the best of Nelson City

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Attractions & Activities It’s on in

Nov 1 New Zealand Cider Festival

Explore Nelson Tasman’s official events guide at NelsonTasman.nz/Events

Nov 9 & 10 BLACKCAPS vs West Indies T20 Cricket Nov 22 The Big Tāhuna Ocean Swim Series Nov 27 – Jan 18 Nelson Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival Nov 29 Gintastic Nov 30 Nelson Santa Parade

Mar 22 Multicultural Festival Mar 28 Marchfest Apr 4 – 5 Nelson Yoga Festival Apr 26 – May 2 Nelson Festival of Golf

Dec 5 – 6 The Spectacle

May 29 – Jun 1 Ceol Aneas Irish Music Festival

Dec 31 New Years Eve Celebrations

May 30 – Jun 7 Founders Book Fair

Jan 8 – 17 The Importance of Being Ernest

Jul 3 – 7 Te Ramaroa

Jan 14 – 16 South Island Colgate Games Jan 17 – 18 Summer Kite Festival Jan 29 – Feb 7 Adam Chamber Music Festival Mar 1 Nelson Italian Festival Mar 5 – 14 Nelson Fringe Festival

Jul 10 Matariki Festival Jul 12 Nelson Marathon Sep 26 – 27 NZ Highland Dancer of the Year Sep 30 – Oct 4 South Island Chess Championships Oct 2 – 9 Nelson Clay Week

Mar 14 – 21 NZ MTB Rally

Oct 16 – 18 NZ Fishing, Hunting, & 4x4 Expo

Mar 15 – 21 VERO International Festival of Historic Motoring

Oct 22 – Nov 1 Nelson Arts Festival

Natureland

1 Discover Natureland Wildlife Trust, Nelson's family-friendly zoo dedicated to conservation, education, and breed-forrelease programs. Meet unique species, farmyard favourites, and playful monkeys while supporting vital wildlife initiatives.

Every visit helps protect Aotearoa's taonga for future generations.

A. 1 Hounsell Circle, Tāhunanui, Nelson H. 9.30am – 4.30pm every day T. 03 548 6166 E. info@natureland.nz facebook.com/NaturelandWildlifeTrust

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Nelson Farmers Market

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Every Wednesday Rain or Shine!

From 8am – 1pm Your midweek market in Nelson city, specialising in the best locally grown produce and artisan food. Pop on down and see what's fresh this week.

A. 23 Halifax Street, Nelson T. 022 010 2776 E. managernelsonfarmersmarket@gmail.com W. nelsonfarmersmarket.org.nz facebook.com/nelsonfarmersmarket @nelsonfarmersmarket

Nelson Market

3 Nelson Market: Saturdays 8am – 1pm A vibrant showcase of regional arts, crafts, fashion, jewellery, fresh local and organic produce.

Monty’s Market: Sundays 8am – 1pm Pre-loved clothing, tools, books, CD’s, plants, produce, collectables, new and imported goods.

A. Both at Montgomery Square, Nelson H. Sat 8am – 1pm, Sun 8am – 1pm T. 03 546 6454 E. info@nelsonmarket.co.nz W. nelsonmarket.co.nz (Shop online)

Founders Heritage Park

HISTORIC FUN FOR EVERYONE

Founders Heritage Park Discover the past, play in the present, and create memories for the future!

Open 10AM - 4:30PM Every Day Free for locals $12.10 Adults, $5.20 Children under 16, $30 Family, $7.90 Concession 87 Atawhai Drive, Nelson 03 548 2649 Founderspark.co.nz

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Waahi Taakaro Golf Club

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The most affordable, friendly and sheltered course in Nelson 336 Maitai Valley Road, Nelson, Tel:03 548 7301

waahitaakarogolfclub.co.nz

Cycle Nelson

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CYCLE THE GREAT TASTE TRAIL THE EASY WAY Cruise the Great Taste Trail with your local tour guide at Cycle Nelson. We know the trail inside out, and we take care of every little detail.

Find a Cycle Nelson hub: Tāhunanui Beach Nelson Airport Kaiteriteri Beach

0800 932 453 cyclenelson.co.nz uniquelynelson.nz

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Artists, Galleries & Museums The Suter Art Gallery

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Discover beautiful objects crafted by local artists in our gift shop, be inspired by our exhibitions, then stay for delicious treats in the café.

open 7 days 208 bridge street ph. 03 548 4699 thesuter.org.nz

ART GALLERY | CAFÉ | GIFT SHOP | THEATRE

Arty Nelson Gallery

8 A collaboration of experienced artists presenting diverse, high-quality art from around the Nelson region.

Paintings, pottery, sculpture, glass, garden art, jewellery, prints and cards.

Visit today and be inspired.

A. 126 Trafalgar Street, Nelson H. Mon – Sat 10am – 4pm, Sun 11am - 2pm (Summer) T. 021 022 90996 E. jackiemacnz@gmail.com facebook.com/artynelsongallery

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Nelson Provincial Museum

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Nelson Classic Car Museum

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Little Beehive Co-Op

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Little Beehive Supports Small NZ business and local Nelson Talent

littlebeehive.shop 263 Hardy St, Nelson Open Mon-Fri 9.30-5pm Sat 9.30 - 4pm

LITTLE BEEHIVE CO-OP ART & DESIGN FROM AOTEAROA

Jewel Beetle

12 Handmade in Nelson.

Step into a bright array of silver and gold jewellery designed and created in our Nelson workshop. New Zealand inspired collections include delightful fantails, silver ferns, contemporary greenstone jewellery and beautiful NZ blue pearls. Commissions welcome.

A. 56 Bridge Street, Nelson H. Mon – Friday 10am – 5pm, Sat by appointment T. 03 548 0487 E. info@jewelbeetle.co.nz W. jewelbeetle.co.nz

Wall to Wall Art Gallery

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Wall to Wall Art is a collective gallery run by a dozen local artists. The gallery offers an inspiring selection of diverse and vibrant artwork, fused glass, ceramics and photography, plus gifts, prints and art cards. Located just off Trafalgar Street, the gallery is accessible from Bridge Street and Buxton Square car park.

A. 112 Bridge Street, Nelson H. Mon – Sun 10am – 4pm T. 03 548 3961 W. walltowallartnelson.co.nz facebook.com/walltowallartnelson

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Flamedaisy & Lexgun

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Jens Hansen – The Ringmaker

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Visit the Makers of The One Ring™ Jens Hansen is the legendary creator of the world’s most famous ring, The One Ring™, for the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.

A. Selwyn Place, Nelson H. Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm, Sat 9am – 2pm T. 03 548 0640 E. studio@jenshansen.com W. jenshansen.co.nz facebook.com/theringmaker

Nelson City Framers & The Gallery

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Yes, we can frame that for you!

We have been framing pictures, paintings, prints and everything else imaginable for a while now. Call in and see us and check out our gallery space at the same time.

A. 42A Halifax Street, Nelson H. Mon – Fri 8:30am – 5pm, Sat 10am – 1pm T. 03 539 1233 E. info@ncf.nz W. nelsoncityframers.nz facebook.com/nelsoncityframers

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Artists + Galleries Trail Nelson City is home to many artist studios and galleries. Visit Arts Council Nelson for details of artists, exhibitions and galleries: acn.org.nz

A Arty Nelson Gallery Paintings, pottery, sculpture, glass, jewellery, prints and cards from the Nelson region.

126 Trafalgar Street, Nelson Find us on Facebook – Arty Nelson Gallery

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Bill Burke Gallery

Bill Burke's oil paintings are an expressive joy of colour.

15B Ajax Avenue, Nelson 027 847 0620 • billburkeartist.com

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Craig Potton Gallery

Photography, art and jewellery by leading New Zealand artists.

255 Hardy Street, Nelson 03 548 9554 • craigpottongallery.co.nz

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Flamedaisy & Lexgun

Anthony Genet Glass Artist.

Studio and Gallery + Contemporary Jewellery.

324 Trafalgar Square, Nelson 03 548 4475 • flamedaisy.co.nz

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Little Beehive Co-Op

Local artists and creatives showcasing their unique products.

263 Hardy Street, Nelson littlebeehive.shop

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Nelson City Framers

Picture framing and gallery space featuring paintings, prints and more.

42A Halifax Street, Nelson 03 539 1233 • nelsoncityframers.nz

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RED Gallery

Come and discover the uniqueness of RED Gallery, Design Store and Café.

1 Bridge Street, Nelson 03 548 2170 • redartgallery.com

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Robyn Reynolds Gallery

A shared studio space for artists to showcase their creative work.

12A Church St, Nelson 027 772 7077 • robynreynolds.co.nz

The Refinery ArtSpace

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A creative community space supporting a diverse programme of exhibitions, projects & events.

114 Hardy St, Nelson 022 627 5363 • acn.org.nz

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The Suter Art Gallery

The Suter Art Gallery Te Aratoi o Whakatū is the public art gallery for the Nelson Tasman region.

208 Bridge Street, Nelson 03 548 4699 • thesuter.org.nz

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Wall to Wall Art Gallery

A diverse and vibrant selection of art, fused glass, ceramics, photography and gifts from local artists.

TRAFALGAR ELLIOTT ST PARK

112 Bridge Street, Nelson 03 548 3961 • walltowallartnelson.co.nz

GROVE ST

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Restaurants, Bars & Cafés Penguino Ice Cream Café

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Experience our multi award-winning gelato and sorbet right in the heart of Nelson City. Made on-site with fresh local ingredients. Come discover and enjoy our delicious hot waffles, coffees, smoothies and milkshakes in a great atmosphere with great service.

A. 85 Montgomery Square, Nelson H. Open 7 days a week T. 03 545 6450 Like us on Facebook facebook.com/penguinoicecreamcafe

River Kitchen

18 We offer a full à la carte menu, serving breakfast and lunch all year round with craft beers, wines, and locally roasted coffee. Freshly baked scones and muffins in the morning, and delicious sweet treats throughout the day fill our display cabinet.

A. 81 Trafalgar Street, Nelson H: Visit our website for opening hours T. 03 548 1180 E. hello@riverkitchennelson.co.nz W. riverkitchennelson.co.nz facebook.com/riverkitchennelson

Red16 Bar

19 Casual cosy bar in the centre of Nelson. Live music every Thursday & Saturday — 15 beer taps, cocktails, local wines with tacos, burgers & more served until late night. Enjoy in our intimate indoor space or sunny courtyard.

A. 19 New Street, Nelson H. Mon – Sat 3pm – late T. 03 539 0609 E. red16bar@gmail.com facebook.com/Red16Nelson

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Kimchi & Wasabi

Locals Fav • @kimchiandwasabinz

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Little India

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Authentic Northern Indian Flavours Step into Little India, proudly run by Mani and Sonia for over 21 years. From rich, aromatic curries to freshly baked naan, every dish is crafted with care and made from family recipes.

Gluten free, keto friendly & vegan options.

Download our app & join our loyalty programme for easy ordering & reward points!

269 Hardy Street, Nelson

03 539 1155

Lunch: Mon – Sun 11:30am – 2pm, Dinner: Mon – Sun 5pm – 9:30pm

littleindia.co.nz facebook.com/littleindianelson

The Vic Public House

22 The Vic Public House is Nelson's very own iconic, family-owned pub since 1992. Contemporary, industrial, Victorian design, delicious comfort pub food & a wide range of craft beers with rotating guest beer makes The Vic the top choice for that traditional pub vibe.

A. 281 Trafalgar St, Nelson H. Mon – Sun 12pm – late T. 03 548 7631 E. info@thevicpub.co.nz W. thevicpub.co.nz facebook.com/vicpublichouse

Ruby's Espresso

23 Ruby's Espresso set in the heart of the Nelson Marina offers a relaxed space to enjoy the best brews in Nelson.

Serving delicious Sublime coffee and delicious homemade treats with the best views in town!

A. Akersten Street, Nelson Marina, Nelson H. Mon – Fri 7:30am – 4pm, Sat – Sun 8am – 4pm T. 027 226 8434 Like us on Facebook facebook.com/rubysespresso

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Sprig + Fern Taverns

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LOCALLY CRAFTED, AWARD WINNING BEER + CIDER AT THE HOME OF THE PROPER PINT

FOUR GREAT LOCATIONS IN NELSON

HARDY ST | MILTON ST TAHUNA | MARSDEN VLY Burger Culture

25 Burger Culture is Nelson’s awardwinning bar and burger kitchen.

Indulgent burgers made with fresh local produce, alongside mouth-watering sides, local brews on tap, banging milkshakes and sweet treats with great service and nostalgic-street vibe.

A. 279 Trafalgar Street, Nelson H. Mon – Sun 12pm – 9pm T. 03 546 9020 E. office@culturenelson.nz W. culturenelson.nz facebook.com/burgerculturenz

Lambretta’s

26 Lambretta’s is the busy café that captures what Nelson is all about; sunshine, fresh food, breakfast, cabinet food, lunch, great coffee, local wine and people meeting people. Bring the kids and scoot on down.

A. 204 Hardy Street, Nelson H. Mon – Sat 8am – 3pm, Sun until 2pm T. 03 545 8555 E. info@lambrettascafe.co.nz W. lambrettascafe.co.nz facebook.com/lambrettascafe

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Yogi's Frozen Yogurt

27 Yogi's Frozen Yogurt is Nelson's much-loved and only yogurt shop.

Start with our delicious frozen yogurt or ice cream and then hit the topping bar to create your custom dessert.

Or enjoy our handmade waffles, crepes, milkshakes, smoothies and coffee. Located right in the centre of town. Pop in and you will surely leave with a smile on your face.

A. 166 Hardy St, Nelson H: Mon – Sun 11am – 9pm T. 03 548 3486 facebook.com/yogisnz W. yogis.co.nz

The Indian Café

Restaurant & Bar

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Restaurant & Bar

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The Qualitea Café

29 The first Bubble Tea (Boba) shop in the heart of Nelson City. Come in and try our varieties of delicious sweets and cakes, unique bubble teas, exquisite coffee and real fruit ice cream — all house-made with love. We have great outdoor seating, especially for those hot, summer days.

Pop in, we would love to see you!

A. Shop 1, 167 Hardy St, Nelson H. Tues – Sun 9am – 6pm T. 027 498 3997 facebook.com/thequaliteacafe

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Aki Sushi

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High quality, fresh ingredients

Aki Sushi Nelson

Aki Sushi Richmond

Aki Sushi Stoke

194 Trafalgar St Nelson

Unit 4 186 Queen St Richmond

Shop L/99 Quarantine Road Annesbrook

03 5441189

03 9276653

Mon-Fri 9-5:30pm Sat 9-5pm Sun 9-4pm

Mon-Fri 9-5:30pm Sat 9-5pm Sun 9-4pm

03 222 0123 Mon-Sat 9-5pm Sun-Closed

Supporting and providing sushi to the community since 2008 uniquelynelson.nz

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Retail & Fashion Robyn Reynolds Clothing

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Designed and made in Nelson for over 20 years, Robyn designs with the New Zealand woman in mind.

Combined with her creative flair and use of colours, she has become known throughout NZ for producing highquality garments.

A. 12A Church Street, Nelson H. Mon – Closed, Tue – Fri 10am – 4:30pm, Sat 10am – 2:30pm T. 027 772 7077 E. info@robynreynolds.co.nz W. robynreynolds.co.nz

Soul by Mariposa

32 Explore our incredible selection of comfort footwear, vibrant streetwearinspired clothing, divine jewels and heavenly gifts. Enjoy the relaxing vibe of our store and supportive assistance of our team.

A. 196 Trafalgar St, Nelson H. Mon – Sat 9am – 5pm, Sun 10am – 4pm T. 03 548 7789 E. info@mariposaclothing.co.nz W. mariposaclothing.co.nz www.facebook.com/mariposaclothing

Merric

33 Merric is a New Zealand fashion brand offering stylish, affordable womenswear since 2000 — empowering confident, independent women of all ages. Come on in and meet our friendly staff who are always happy to help.

A. Shop 2, 244 Hardy St, Nelson H. Mon – Sat 10am – 5pm Sun – 10am – 4pm T. 03 545 9288 E. admin@merric.co.nz W. merric.co.nz

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Living Light Candles

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Open Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm, Sat 10am – 2pm Nelson Central Arcade, 219 Trafalgar Street, Nelson 03 546 7561 • jude@livinglight.co.nz • livinglight.co.nz

Trouble & Fox

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Health & Wellbeing

The asian art of healing

Ima Spa

since 2009

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The asian art of healing

since 2009

Traditional Thai massage Aromatherapy Sport massages Reiki Spa packages Book an appointment Online: www.imaspa.co.nz Phone: 03 545 6956 131A Hardy St, Nelson | imaspa.co.nz

Health 2000 Traditional Thai massage Aromatherapy Sport massages Reiki Spa packages Book an appointment Online: www.imaspa.co.nz Phone: 03 545 6956 131A Hardy St, Nelson | imaspa.co.nz

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37 We offer a range of vitamins and supplements, superfoods, natural skincare, herbal remedies, sports nutrition and weight management products from leading manufacturers.

Our staff are trained and qualified to give you the best advice for your natural health needs.

A. Nelson Central Arcade, off Trafalgar Street, Nelson H. Mon – Fri 9am – 4:30pm, Sat 10am – 2pm, Sun & Public Holidays – Closed T. 03 548 7294 E. sales.h2knelson@gmail.com W. health2000.co.nz

Getting Around Nelson City Taxis

38 Nelson City Taxis operates 24/7.

It is Nelson’s largest taxi fleet, with sedans, maxi vans, and wheelchair vehicles. We're registered members of Small Passenger Service Association (SPSA). Eftpos, Taxicharge and credit card facilities available. See our great fixed fares to Māpua, Kaiteriteri and Mārahau on our website.

H. 24/7 service T. 0800 10 88 55 / 03 548 8225 E: enquiries@nelsontaxis.co.nz w: nelsontaxis.co.nz

eBus

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Enjoying Nelson’s nightlife this summer?

The Late Late bus is a safe and affordable service between Nelson and Richmond, via Tāhunanui operating from 10pm till 2am.

Serving Nelson Airport (R4), Motueka (R5) and Wakefield (R6). ebus.nz/routes-and-timetables

R1

R2

R3

R4

R5

R6

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TRAFALGAR PARK

City Map

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To Ruby's Espresso

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To Natureland

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Nelson City Guide 2025 – 2026 / Published Annually Uniquely Nelson P. 03 546 8405 E. info@uniquelynelson.co.nz W. uniquelynelson.nz Project Management & Publication Design: Downing Creative Marketing @uniquelynelson

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Map is an approximate guide only.

DISCLAIMER: All due care has been taken to ensure that the content is accurate at time of print.

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TRAFALGAR ST

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To Cycle Nelson • Tahunanui Beach • Nelson Airport • Kaiteriteri Beach

GROVE ST

GROVE ST To Founders Heritage Park

19 NEW ST

COLLINGWOOD ST

HALIFAX ST 16

HALSTEAD ST

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TRAFALGAR ST

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To Sprig + Fern Milton Street

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BRIDGE ST 7 QUEENS GARDENS

BRIDGE ST 13

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MORRISON ST

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SHELBOURNE ST

TRAFALGAR SQUARE

SELWYN PL

HARDY ST NMIT

ALTON ST

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COLLINGWOOD ST

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25 22

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To Waahi Taakaro Golf Club

NILE ST EAST

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To The Brook Waimarama Sanctuary

Nelson City – Map Key Automobile Association

Nelson City Council

Public Toilets

Car Parking

NZ Post Office

Supermarkets

Cathedral/Steps

Public Library

Proudly supported by

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Only 10 minutes’ drive from Nelson CBD Immerse your senses at Nelson’s Brook Waimārama Sanctuary, or come and stay at the Brook Valley Holiday Reserve for the ultimate nature getaway.

Photo Credit: Sean McGrath

ESCAPE TO NELSON’S ULTIMATE NATURE EXPERIENCE Nelson City Centre

Holiday Reserve Sanctuary

Book your stay: brookvalleyholidayreserve.nz or visit the Sanctuary: brooksanctuary.org.nz