If you want to see where it all began when New Zealand was settled, go on over to Nelson. As the oldest city on South Island, it’s a great destination to visit while traveling around in a campervan hire New Zealand.

Not only is it one of the most richly blessed areas in terms of natural locations in the country, but it’s also one of the most beautiful. If you’re up for adventure, fun, and beauty, Nelson is the place for you to go.

Whether you’re traveling with your family or on a road trip with friends, Nelson is a place that has something for everyone. Those who love the outdoors will love this destination, while those who like to explore cities, will also have plenty to see and do.

A city that boasts of amazing weather, great food, and a plethora of activities, it’s definitely a good destination for anyone traveling on vacation. If it’s your first time in the area, consider participating in the following experiences:

• Go visit Abel Tasman National Park. Abel Tasman National Park is one of New Zealand’s most unique national parks. It’s a great place to go with a campervan hire New Zealand, as it offers camping spots. As one of the only parks along the coastline, you can enjoy a trek following the Abel Tasman Coast Track which will lead you over beaches and provide you with some incredible views. If you reach Separation Point, you’ll be rewarded with the chance to observe fur seals, blue penguins, and bottlenose dolphins.
• Sip wine at wineries. As with many areas of New Zealand, there are wineries to be visited in the area around Nelson. While it is one of the smaller wine regions in the country, you can be sure to enjoy some award-winning wines. A very popular thing to do for locals and tourists alike is to go on a cycling tour to different wineries.
• Go cycling. Nelson is well-known for being a great place for cycling. If you enjoy biking, whether in the city or on mountain trails, you’ll be rewarded with plenty of great trails in the city. In fact, Nelson boats of three mountain biking parks, so you don’t have to worry about having to forge a trail on your own. Whether you’re bring one with you or rent one while in town, if you love biking, this isn’t something that you want to miss out on.
• Relax at the beach. If you’re just in the mood for relaxing, then you’re in luck. There are some gorgeous beaches in the area with calm waves to meet your relaxation needs. Two of the most popular beaches are Tahunani Beach and Kaiteriteri Beach, both perfect spots for lounging around with your family. There are plenty more in the area, so you can rest assured that you won’t lack for beaches to play at. Sit back and relax and enjoy the beauty of New Zealand’s waters.
• Explore Harwood’s Hole. Harwood’s Hole is an incredible cave system in Abel Tasman National Park and definitely something you will want to see. It’s not the best idea for those who may be traveling with kids as it is a bit risky, but if you’re up to adventure with experienced friends, it can be a fun experience. Be forewarned that it is something you’ll want to be prepared for, but if you are, it will be worth it.
• Go sailing across the local waters. If adventure and potentially dangerous experiences are not your cup of tea, then you may want to just relax on a sailing boat on the ocean. There are sailing tours or gourmet experiences aboard sail boats to provide you with a relaxing experience. You can also take the opportunity to go snorkeling in the area and getting to know more of Tasman Bay.
• Visit art galleries and museums. If you’re more of a city person, you may want to visit the abundance of art galleries and museums in the city. From The Suter Art Gallery to Atkins Gallery, there are plenty of places to visit.

Nelson is, undoubtedly, one of the best places to visit in New Zealand, and especially on the South Island. It has nearly everything that you could want from a holiday vacation destination.

Whether you want to go hiking in a national park, go swimming in the ocean, enjoy a day cycling, or visit museums, you have plenty to choose from in Nelson, New Zealand.

You can stay at a hotel or rent a campervan hire New Zealand. If you stay in a campervan, it will be easier for you to see Nelson and its surrounding areas. Either way, you’ll be sure to love the experience of visiting Nelson on the South Island.