Visitor Information

Welcome to paradise!

Climate
The Nelson region is the sunniest place in New Zealand and the surrounding mountain ranges protect us from the country’s prevailing winds.

There are four distinct seasons, with January and February being the warmest months of the year (between 15-30°C), and July being the coldest. Even in winter we are blessed with many clear sunny days, so visitors can enjoy outdoor activities all year round.

Geography
The Nelson region sits at the top of the South Island and offers almost every kind of landscape. It is home to some of the best and most popular national parks in the country – Kahurangi, Nelson Lakes and Abel Tasman, where you can enjoy a wilderness experience, or indulge in watersports along the coastline of safe, golden beaches, all within a couple of hours’ drive.

There are also two marine reserves and a large forest park in the Richmond Ranges.

With only 82,920 people living in the region, there are a lot of wide open spaces.

Nelson city is the geographical centre of New Zealand.