Top Nelson Sightseeing Tours in 2026

Outdoors enthusiasts who want to try something new should join this small-group ATV tour through native forest and farmland near Nelson. You don’t need ATV-driving experience as full instruction is given before you start. Drive through different terrain, with lots of beautiful views, and make several stops so your guide can tell you all about the area. The ride duration varies depending on riders’ skills and needs.

Discover the jewel in the South Island’s crown on this full-day Abel Tasman National Park hiking tour with cruise. Travel from Nelson to Kaiteriteri with your guide, then hop aboard your water taxi. Cruise along the coastline toward the heart of the park and the start-point of your trek. Follow hiking trails through the dense forest and learn about the local environment. Stop for lunch at Torrent Beach.

Home to pristine bays, dense forests, and soaring headlands, the Abel Tasman National Park boasts some of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal scenery—but to appreciate it fully, you have to take to the sea. On this tour, cruise the South Island’s coastal waters and discover top attractions including Split Apple Rock and the Tonga Island Marine Reserve—with live commentary and optional beach stops.

See Abel Tasman National Park by both land and sea on this combination sailing and walking day tour. After boarding a water taxi at Kaiteriteri Beach, enjoy scenes of Split Apple Rock and the Fisherman and Adele Islands. Land at Anchorage Bay and take a scenic walk around the Pitt Head loop, perhaps stopping for a swim at a secluded beach. Look out for local wildlife, including dolphins and seals.

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.

Enjoy a thrilling adventure that’s just a short drive from Nelson: race through the native forest canopy and admire the mountain views during a fun flying fox experience. The Skywire is one of the longest flying foxes in New Zealand, and reaches speeds of around 60 miles (100 kilometers) per hour. Experience that speed first-hand as you rocket up and down the Cable Bay hillside and through the canopy.

This ATV adventure is an exciting way to tour the bush-clad terrain near Nelson. After a thorough briefing on how to use the bikes safely, travel along 8.5 miles (14 kilometers) of tracks. You’re treated to beautiful views across Cable Bay, and make plenty of stops so your guide can tell you all about the area. This is a fun outing for families and friends traveling together.

It can be difficult to see all of Abel Tasman National Park if you’re pressed for time. Save some time and see some of the park’s many highlights on this full-day sailing tour along the coast. Sit back and relax on board without the strain of hiking through the park. Stop at beaches and islands along the way, with an hour-long stop at beautiful Anchorage Beach for a picnic lunch.

Wharariki is the most amazing beach in New Zealand and is a difficult place to access. Don't miss this chance to explore it properly, and the essential highlights along the way in true Kiwi style! Your luxury minivan is super comfortable and spacious for up to 5 Guests. Snacks, water and essentials are all covered. Just bring your shoes and a jacket to enjoy this epic day out.

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.

Explore the glorious Abel Tasman National Park on this private boat charter. This trip through one of New Zealand’s most famous parks is easily personalized to suit your needs. With hiking, swimming, and kayaking opportunities available to all fitness levels, this day traversing the park's emerald waters and golden sands can be full of adventure or relaxation - the choice is up to you.

Explore the majestic landscapes of New Zealand's South Island on a 15-day hiking adventure that takes you from Nelson to Queenstown. Traverse lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and the iconic Southern Alps while staying in comfortable backcountry huts and lodges. Enjoy activities like paddling a Māori waka in Abel Tasman National Park, cycling the West Coast Wilderness Trail, and cruising through Milford Sound. This small group experience, limited to 11 hikers, encourages camaraderie and teamwork, with expert Kiwi guides sharing their knowledge of the land. Perfect for active travelers seeking a deep connection with nature and the culture of New Zealand. - 15 days of varied multi-day hikes and cycling through stunning landscapes - Small group size with a maximum of 11 participants for a personalized experience - Paddle a traditional Māori waka and camp near the Abel Tasman beach - Cruise or kayak in the breathtaking Milford Sound, surrounded by fjords and glaciers

Discover the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island on a 10-day hiking adventure. Traverse through breathtaking fjords, majestic mountains, and picturesque beaches. With expert Kiwi guides, explore the best trails from the vibrant Abel Tasman National Park to the serene Milford Sound. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and meals celebrating local flavors, while connecting with Māori culture along the way. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts seeking a comfortable experience immersed in nature. - 10-day guided hiking journey from Nelson to Queenstown - Small group size with a maximum of 15 participants - Experience iconic locations like Aoraki/Mt Cook and Fiordland National Park - Suitable for all fitness levels; no prior hiking experience required