The scenic coastal city of Nelson serves up New Zealand’s finest outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. The standout tour takes you through Abel Tasman National Park, combining hiking, coastal views, and a delicious local lunch. For pure excitement, the quad bike tours rumble through back-country trails and working farms – it’s a fantastic way to see the real New Zealand. A helicopter tour gives you movie-worthy views of landscapes made famous in Lord of the Rings. Meanwhile, the self-guided brewery and wine tours let you sample local flavors at your own pace, with easy bike routes connecting top tasting spots. Let’s look at these memorable tours in detail.
Key Points
- The Abel Tasman National Park Hiking Tour offers a full-day experience with a small group, water taxi cruise, hiking, and lunch at Torrent Beach.
- The Guided Quad Biking Tour provides a thrilling 1.5 to 2.5-hour ride suitable for ages 16+ and is known for its knowledgeable guides and safety.
- The Ultimate Lord of the Rings Combo Tour includes a scenic helicopter flight over Kahurangi National Park and visits to two iconic filming locations.
- The Abel Tasman Cruise-Fly Day Tour combines a scenic boat cruise, picnic lunch, and a stop at the Te Waikoropupū Springs.
- The Great Taste Beer Tour by Bicycle is a self-guided cycling tour that visits several local breweries and includes bike rental and helmet.
Full-Day Abel Tasman National Park Hiking Tour With Cruise
One of the top-rated tours in Nelson, New Zealand is the Full-Day Abel Tasman National Park Hiking Tour with Cruise. This full-day excursion boasts a 98% traveler recommendation, with 61 glowing reviews.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, National Park fees, bottled water, light refreshments, lunch, and a local guide. With a small group size of up to 6 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized service throughout the experience.
The itinerary begins with a transfer from Nelson to Kaiteriteri, followed by a water taxi cruise along the Abel Tasman coastline. Once in the national park, you’ll embark on hiking trails through dense forest, learning about the local environment from your knowledgeable guide.
Lunch will be served at Torrent Beach. The tour is suitable for moderately active travelers, and comfortable shoes are recommended.
Reviewers praise the guides’ expertise on flora, fauna, and Māori culture, as well as their friendliness and ability to tailor the experience to the group’s pace and interests.
The packed lunches and refreshments also receive positive feedback for their quality and variety.
Read our full review: Full-Day Abel Tasman National Park Hiking Tour With Cruise Review
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Nelson: Guided Quad Biking Tour Through Forest and Farmland
For travelers seeking an exhilarating outdoor adventure in Nelson, the Guided Quad Biking Tour Through Forest and Farmland is a must-try experience.
This 1.5 to 2.5-hour tour takes riders on a thrilling journey through natural forests and farmlands, culminating at the stunning Cable Bay. Priced from Kč1,846 per person, the tour includes a safety briefing, instructional session, and an expert guide to lead the way.
Riders can choose between a 1.5-hour Farm Forest Ride or a 2.5-hour Bayview Circuit Tour, both offering scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities. The tour is suitable for ages 16 and up, with children aged 5-15 able to ride as passengers.
With an impressive 4.8/5 overall rating based on 73 reviews, the tour is known for its knowledgeable guides, modern and safe quad bikes, and excellent value for money.
Advance booking is recommended, as the tour is likely to sell out.
Read our full review: Nelson: Guided Quad Biking Tour Through Forest and Farmland Review
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The Ultimate Lord of the Rings Combo Tour
Offering a unique blend of stunning aerial views and immersive Lord of the Rings experiences, the Ultimate Lord of the Rings Combo Tour in Nelson, New Zealand, captivates visitors with its unparalleled exploration of the region’s natural wonders and cinematic heritage.
The 2.5-hour private tour begins with a scenic helicopter flight over the breathtaking Kahurangi National Park, providing guests with unobstructed communication with the pilot and the opportunity to learn about the area’s rich geology and biodiversity.
The tour then takes guests to two iconic Lord of the Rings filming locations, where they can enjoy the magic of Middle-earth.
With a total of six 5-star reviews, this customizable experience includes landing at two mountain peaks and offers pickup options from Nelson Airport or selected points.
Adventurers will appreciate the tour’s easy physical activity level, while the inclusion of GST, landing fees, and National Park fees ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience.
Read our full review: The Ultimate Lord of the Rings Combo Tour Review
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Nelson: Abel Tasman Cruise-Fly Day Tour
Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of Nelson’s natural wonders can embark on the Nelson: Abel Tasman Cruise-Fly Day Tour. This 9-hour adventure, priced at €359.05 per person, promises an unforgettable experience for small groups of up to 7 participants.
Beginning at the Nelson Airport, the tour includes a shuttle transfer to Kaiteriteri, a 90-minute scenic boat cruise in the Abel Tasman National Park, and a picnic lunch at the picturesque Tōtaranui Beach.
The tour also features a photo stop and walk at the stunning Te Waikoropupū Springs, the largest freshwater springs in New Zealand.
The day concludes with a 30-minute scenic flight back to Nelson, offering breathtaking views of the Abel Tasman coastline.
With experienced guides, flexible booking options, and a generous cancellation policy, this tour provides an exceptional way to discover the natural beauty of the Nelson region.
Read our full review: Nelson: Abel Tasman Cruise-Fly Day Tour Review
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Great Taste Beer Tour by Bicycle (Self-guided)
Exploring Nelson’s thriving craft beer scene becomes a delightful adventure on the Great Taste Beer Tour by Bicycle (Self-guided). This self-guided tour allows visitors to cycle through the scenic region while discovering local breweries.
Priced from £61.12 per person, the tour includes private transportation, a full day of bike rental, a helmet, a souvenir map, and emergency support.
Cyclists can expect to visit several breweries, with alcoholic beverages included in the tour price. Lunch is suggested at the Eddyline Brewery, though not included in the package.
The tour starts at 10:30 am from the meeting point in Tāhunanui and returns to the same location. Secure off-street parking is available for those driving to the starting point.
With a 4.9 rating based on 15 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this tour is a fantastic way to experience Nelson’s renowned craft beer culture.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for pregnant travelers or those with certain medical conditions.
Read our full review: Great Taste Beer Tour by Bicycle (Self-guided) Review
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Abel Tasman National Park Cruise and Walking Tour Combo
Visitors to Nelson can embark on the Abel Tasman National Park Cruise and Walking Tour Combo, a comprehensive day-long adventure that showcases the region’s natural beauty. Priced at $68.10 per person, this tour offers a scenic cruise with visits to Split Apple Rock and a fur seal colony, as well as the opportunity to explore golden sand beaches and secluded coves.
Travelers can choose from three walking tour options, ranging from 7 to 10.5 km in distance and 2.5 to 4 hours in duration. These walks feature stunning forest landscapes, South Head lookouts, and the iconic Falls River swing bridge.
The tour also includes all Department of Conservation fees, water taxi transfers, commentary during the cruise, and sea shuttle booking.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour is a convenient and flexible way to experience the wonders of Abel Tasman National Park.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 434 reviews, it’s a must-do activity for visitors to the Nelson region.
Read our full review: Abel Tasman National Park Cruise and Walking Tour Combo Review
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Nelson City Walking Tour – Guided
For those seeking a more in-depth look at the heart of Nelson, the Nelson City Walking Tour – Guided provides an engaging and informative experience. With a 100% recommendation rate from 46 reviews, this walking tour is a must-do for first-time visitors.
Led by experienced guides, the tour explores major attractions like the cathedral, Queen’s Gardens, and Suter Gallery, while providing local insights. Included in the tour are admission tickets, a free Eco Cup, and even sanitizer and face masks if required.
The meeting point at Millers Acre Carpark is conveniently located, and the tour is timed for cruise ship arrivals. Accessibility is a priority, with wheelchair-friendly surfaces and ramp alternatives.
Travelers consistently praise the engaging guides and informative content covering art, gardens, history, and local culture. With a flexible duration based on group engagement and free cancellation, this is a well-rounded and highly-rated tour that showcases the best of Nelson.
Read our full review: Nelson City Walking Tour – Guided Review
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Nelson: The Ultimate Lord of the Rings Combo Tour
What better way to take in the captivating world of The Lord of the Rings than by embarking on the Nelson: The Ultimate Lord of the Rings Combo Tour? This comprehensive tour combines visits to filming locations from the beloved trilogy with a guided stroll through the heart of Nelson City.
Adventurers will delight in exploring the lush landscapes that served as backdrops for iconic Middle-earth scenes. Climb aboard a comfortable coach and journey to the picturesque Dodson Valley, where the bustling village of Hobbiton was once brought to life.
Marvel at the tranquil shores of Takaka Hill, the dramatic setting for Dimrill Dale. Cap off the experience with a guided tour of Nelson’s historic city center, showcasing charming architecture and captivating insights into the region’s role in the film’s production.
With its seamless blend of cinematic splendor and local exploration, the Nelson: The Ultimate Lord of the Rings Combo Tour offers a truly immersive experience for devoted fans and casual viewers alike.
Read our full review: Nelson: The Ultimate Lord of the Rings Combo Tour Review
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Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Nelson
Nelson’s Hop on Hop off Wine Tours offer an effortless way for travelers to explore the region’s acclaimed wineries and breweries. Ideal for couples or groups, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle that provides comfortable transportation between locations.
Passengers can hop on and off as they please, allowing for a flexible and personalized experience. The tour starts at 10:00 am and includes tastings, with samples priced at $2 each or $7 for a set of 5 wines. Lunch and additional drinks are available at an extra cost.
Reviewers have praised the driver’s knowledge and adaptability, though one noted concerns about cancellation and refund policies. The tours are operated by HOP ON HOP OFF WINE TOURS LIMITED and are accessible by public transportation.
Most travelers can participate, though the tours aren’t wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on laps, and service animals are allowed.
Read our full review: Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Nelson Review
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Sum Up
Nelson offers a diverse range of tours that cater to various interests. From hiking through the stunning Abel Tasman National Park to exploring the region’s rich beer and wine scene, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and local culture. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a Lord of the Rings fan, or a beer and wine connoisseur, Nelson has something to suit every traveler’s preferences.