The Best Small Town In New Zealand For A 3-Day Weekend
Among New Zealand's breathtaking scenery, nestled within the Pacific Ocean, its rich Māori culture, and friendly locals, it is a country full of charm. With so much to see and do, it can be quite difficult to decide where to go on a short, three-day trip. Thankfully, the town of Nelson stands out, offering the perfect mix of sunshine, national parks, and golden beaches. Visitors can spend their long weekend taking in the unique charms of this town, which is also one of the country’s oldest. So, whether you seek history, nature, or just a relaxing getaway, here are some quirks that make Nelson the best small town for a three-day weekend in New Zealand.
The Historic Tale Of Nelson
While many visit for Nelson’s beautiful outdoor opportunities, the town also abounds with history. It is the oldest city in the South Island, and the second-oldest city to be settled in the country. The city’s oldest roots, however, date back around 700 years, when it was a settlement for the Māori people, the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand. Over the next few centuries, clashes between Māori tribes led to changes in the dominant group, which continued until the 1800s.
With the arrival of the British in the 1800s, things changed in Nelson. The town was settled by Europeans in 1841 and named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, who defeated both the French and Spanish fleets at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. In 1858, Nelson received a British royal charter, and many aspects of the community still bear the mark of this period. For example, the town’s main shopping area is Trafalgar Street, and the locals are known as “Nelsonians.”
Historic Landmarks & Museums In Town
With so much history embedded in the town, visitors interested in history have a range of opportunities to choose from during their weekend trip. One of the most prominent spots for some rustic insights is Founder’s Heritage Park. This museum is actually a small village area that recreates the past. It is full of themed buildings such as old shops selling arts and crafts goods, historic bakeries, and park areas which host regular fairs and events. Moreover, there is a small heritage railway line operated by the Nelson Railway Society. The route was once known as the Grand Tapawera Railroad Co. and is a great family experience, although be sure to check if it is open when you visit.
On a different note, the Nelson Classic Car Museum is a must-visit for any automobile enthusiast. With over 150 cars dating back to the early 1900s, adults can relive their youthful driving days, while younger visitors can learn about the evolution of modern vehicles. The museum has many standout pieces, such as a 1908 Renault AX, Vauxhalls, and Buicks from the 1950s.
Outdoor Opportunities For Explorers
After learning all about the past, tourists can shift their sights to Nelson’s outdoor playground, surrounded by some of New Zealand’s most beautiful landscapes. Abel Tasman National Park is one of the region’s greatest treasures, covering roughly 237 square kilometers of protected coastline. The park offers an array of activities, with one of the most popular being skydiving. Those brave enough to skydive here will be rewarded with unforgettable aerial views of the mountains, thick forests, winding rivers, vineyards, orchards, and golden beaches along Golden Bay. Those who prefer to stay seated in comfort can admire the same scenery from above on a helicopter ride or a relaxed scenic flight. Back on land, the park offers numerous hiking, kayaking, and camping opportunities, with landmarks such as Wainui Falls and Tōtaranui Beach to explore.
If you have more time to explore, head to Te Waikoropupu Springs, less than two hours' drive from town. As the largest cold-water spring system in the Southern Hemisphere, it is a calming sight amidst lush forests and smooth hills. The water itself is some of the clearest ever measured, creating a blue-ish tint throughout the small body of water. Moreover, getting here is easy via a short loop walk, and one can watch 14,000 litres of water discharge per second from the wooden viewing platform hanging above it.
Arts & Crafts Scene
Along with its prominent historic and natural charm, Nelson is also renowned for having a thriving arts and crafts scene, with many galleries, festivals, and artists throughout. A short stroll through a local market will be lined with glass blowers, sculptors, and other artisans offering some of the most unique items, perfect for souvenirs. Some of the best places to visit are The Suter Art Gallery, one of the nation’s oldest galleries featuring local artwork, or ArtWalk, an outdoor gallery showcasing local art on the streets. Tourists looking for more can plan their weekend, starting from the end of October, to take part in the Nelson Arts Festival. With everything from theatre to writers’ talks, it is a culmination of everything artistic and creative, perfect for enthusiasts. The fest also features over 200 artists and thousands of people, so you’re bound to have a good time.
Grab A Bite (Or Drink) Before Calling It A Night
With so much to see and do, the exploring is bound to make any traveler tired and hungry. Thankfully, there is no shortage of places to eat, drink, and sleep in this charming weekend destination. Starting off with something for lunch, The Suter Cafe is the spot to be, beckoning people of all ages with its outdoor patio overlooking the Queens Gardens in the Suter Art Gallery. People can choose from salads to cake to satisfy whatever hunger they may have. As night falls, Nahm is a cozy spot where one can enjoy views of the sea with delicious Thai food and conversations.
That said, if you’re here for the drinks, Nelson’s title as the craft brewing capital of the country is sure to bring you confidence. While the drinks and events are endless here, the New Zealand Cider Festival is one of the most lively, with over 100 varieties of cider from all over the nation. One can enjoy a drink, try out local food trucks, listen to all-day music, and even spend quality time with the family in the kids' zone. After all the fun, choose between The Honest Lawyer, located right in town, and Te Koi Lodge, about 20 minutes outside town, for your night's stay. The latter offers luxury suites and villas with views of the coast, along with amenities such as heated pools. In contrast, the former is a quaint hotel and pub featuring vintage decor, with rooms starting at around $110 per night.
A Three-Day Weekend In The Charming Town Of Nelson
A three-day weekend in Nelson feels like the perfect balance between discovery and relaxation. You can spend mornings uncovering centuries of history, afternoons surrounded by golden beaches, forests, and national parks, and evenings enjoying art, food, and lively local energy. Whether you are wandering through museums, gazing into crystal clear springs, or sipping a drink while watching the sunset, Nelson never feels rushed. Instead, it invites you to slow down and enjoy everything that makes this corner of New Zealand so special. For a short escape filled with character and charm, Nelson truly delivers.
