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Adventure · Nelson

Top 10 adventure things to do in Nelson

If your idea of a good day in Nelson ends with sore legs and a great photo, start here. Treks, kayaks, ziplines, off-road runs and the occasional adrenaline-up — every operator below is licensed and safety-checked.

  1. Abel Tasman Adventure Private Tour from Nelson Cruise Port, Nelson1

    1. Abel Tasman Adventure Private Tour from Nelson Cruise Port

    · 7 hours

    Embark on an adventure to one of New Zealands most pristine national parks, Abel Tasman. With crystal clearwaters, golden beaches, and lush rainforest, whats not to love. Take a scenic drive up the coast fueling up with famous doughnuts and a classic kiwi flat white along the way. Once you get to Abel Tasman choose your own adventure trek along the Great Walk (optional kayak, additional cost) around Tasman Bay either way, you wont be disappointed. Exploring the rugged coastline either by foot or by boat will make you feel like you have entered the tropics, spotting the rich green ferns, native birds and (hopefully) the sunbathing seals that make the Abel Tasman so magical. Finish the day in the remote village of Marahau, the perfect place to soak in the last few moments in the park. This product is not wheelchair accessible.

  2. Private Half-Day Mountain Bike Shuttle in Nelson, Nelson2

    2. Private Half-Day Mountain Bike Shuttle in Nelson

    · 3 hours

    Explore the stunning mountain biking trails of Nelson with a Private Half-Day Shuttle experience. Perfect for intermediate to advanced riders, this service allows you to choose from renowned trails like the Cable Bay Adventure Park, Silvan Mountain Bike Park, Fringed Hill and Codgers Mountain Bike Park. Three full shuttle runs over approximately three hours mean less uphill struggle and more exhilarating descents. With a dedicated shuttle vehicle and local driver, enjoy tailored trail selections that match your group’s skill level and preferences. Bring your crew, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of diverse landscapes while making unforgettable memories on the trails.

  3. Half Day Guided Mountain Biking Adventure in Nelson, Nelson3

    3. Half Day Guided Mountain Biking Adventure in Nelson

    · 3 hours

    Explore Nelson's stunning mountain biking trails with a guided ride tailored just for your interests and level. This 3 to 4-hour adventure is can be tailored for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders, ensuring a personalized experience that matches your abilities. With over 400 kilometers of single-track trails too choose from, across six different riding hubs, your expert guide will lead you through scenic routes and flowing single-tracks. Benefit from their extensive local knowledge, riding tips, and safety support as you navigate the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand's premier biking destination. Our qualified guides are passionate riders with extensive local knowledge, ready to share insider tips and hidden gems to level up your mountain bike skills in a fun and rewarding way.

  1. Wine Exposed Nelson Winery Tour, Nelson4

    4. Wine Exposed Nelson Winery Tour

    5.0· 15 reviews· 6 hours

    Embark on Wine Exposed Nelson, a journey where every sip tells a story! Discover Nelson's vibrant wine culture across its three distinct sub-regions. Guided by an expert, explore lush vineyards and boutique cellar doors of family-owned wineries. Savour the crisp chardonnays of Moutere, aromatic pinot gris of Waimea, and bold reds of Coastal Tasman. After a morning of tastings, enjoy a gourmet vineyard lunch, where local flavours pair perfectly with the region's finest wines. Immerse yourself in Nelson's natural beauty, history, and craftsmanship for an unforgettable wine adventure!

  2. The Ultimate Lord of the Rings Combo Tour, Nelson5

    5. The Ultimate Lord of the Rings Combo Tour

    5.0· 8 reviews· 2.5 hours

    Included in this adventure • Approximately 90 minutes flight time exploring the Kahurangi National Park • Two-way communication between you and your pilot • 2 x Mountain landings SIGHTS: • 2 x Lord of the Rings film locations! • Unique land forms, habitats, plant communities and wildlife • Native bush • Breathtaking mountain landscapes

  3. Cruise Abel Tasman to Golden Bay, Nelson6

    6. Cruise Abel Tasman to Golden Bay

    5.0· 6 reviews· 9.8 hours

    Explore the Best of Abel Tasman National Park and Golden Bay in One Day! Your friendly guide will pick you up from your accommodation for a scenic journey across the Waimea Plains and Moutere Hills to Kaiteriteri. From there, enjoy a cruise along the stunning coastline of Abel Tasman National Park, famous for its clear waters, golden beaches, and fur seal colonies. Disembark at Tōtaranui for an adventure through Golden Bay, a region of breathtaking landscapes. Explore sub-tropical rainforests, intriguing rock formations, and pristine beaches. Visit Te Waikoropupū Springs, home to some of the world’s clearest water, and enjoy a gourmet picnic or a meal at a local café. Your return journey takes you over Takaka Hill, past unique granite and marble formations, with panoramic views of Golden Bay, Abel Tasman National Park, and Tasman Bay.

  4. Split Apple Paddle Guided Kayak - Nelson, Nelson7

    7. Split Apple Paddle Guided Kayak - Nelson

    5.0· 6 reviews· 3 hours

    Share a landscape full of stories. No experience required. Your guide supplies all the gear and information you need.

  5. Te Tau Ihu West Coast Wilderness, Nelson8

    8. Te Tau Ihu West Coast Wilderness

    5.0· 3 reviews· 5 hours

    Included in this adventure: • Approximately 120 minutes flight time over the Kahurangi National Park, The Wild West Coast, Abel Tasman National Park, Golden Bay and Farewell Spit • Two-way communication between you and your pilot • 1 x Mountain landing SIGHTS: • Breathtaking mountain landscapes

  6. Lord of the Rings Mt Owen, Exit from the Mines of Moria, Nelson9

    9. Lord of the Rings Mt Owen, Exit from the Mines of Moria

    5.0· 2 reviews· 1.5 hours

    Included in this adventure: • Approximately 40 minutes flight time exploring the Kahurangi National Park • Two-way communication between you and your pilot • 1 x Mountain landing SIGHTS: • Official Lord of the Rings film location! • Unique land forms, habitats, plant communities and wildlife • Native bush • Breathtaking mountain landscapes

  7. 3 Day Shuttle MTB Weekend Adventure in Nelson, Nelson10

    10. 3 Day Shuttle MTB Weekend Adventure in Nelson

    5.0· 2 reviews· 3 days

    Discover the best of over 400 kilometers of exhilarating mountain bike trails in Nelson with a 3-Day Shuttle MTB Weekend. Tailored for groups of four or more, this package includes seamless airport transfers, expert guidance, and customized trail selections to match your group's skill level. Ride iconic spots like Wairoa Gorge, Cable Bay Adventure Park, Fringed Hill and more, all while enjoying the convenience of dedicated shuttles that maximize your riding time without the hassle of logistics. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced rider, your expert coaches are on hand to guide you to the best trails and give you helpful hints and tips. - Minimum group size of four riders, accommodating larger groups - Includes airport pick-up, drop-off, and three days of shuttled riding - Customizable trail options for all skill levels from beginner to expert - Optional add-ons include bike rentals, coaching, and snack packages

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