What is the main attraction in Nelson?

The main attractions in Nelson are its culinary scene, vineyards, orchards, and local breweries. It is also known for its thriving arts scene with over 350 working artists and crafters.

What famous movie scenes were filmed in the Nelson region?

The Pelorus Bridge in the Nelson region was chosen by Peter Jackson to film scenes from The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. The river was used for the iconic scene where the dwarfs float down the river on barrels.

What can you do in Abel Tasman National Park?

Abel Tasman National Park offers opportunities for wildlife encounters and exploring its beautiful golden sand beaches. You can also enjoy crystal clear streams and mossy valleys that lead to the ocean.

What activities are available in Nelson Lakes National Park?

In Nelson Lakes National Park, you can enjoy several beautiful day hikes. The park is easily accessible from the town of St Arnaud, which is located on the edge of Lake Rotoiti.

What are the must-see attractions in Punakaiki and Hokitika?

In Punakaiki, the must-see attraction is the Pancake Rocks, which are historic limestone stacks dating back over 30 million years. In Hokitika, you can explore the local pounamu (greenstone) jewelry and art, and even carve a piece for yourself.

Road Trip - Middle‑earth™ to the Wild West Coast

Go New Zealand 2 years ago

Road Trip - Middle‑earth™ to the Wild West Coast

This South Island road journey takes you from sun-drenched Nelson to the mountainous West Coast, where you'll see mirror-smooth lakes and the strange Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Take advantage of local crops, eat and drink fresh from the source, and stroll around Middle EarthTM.

Day 1: Start your journey in Nelson

Your voyage begins in New Zealand's sunniest region, which offers a culinary feast of orchards, vineyards, and sun-kissed hop fields, as well as exquisite local breweries. Nelson is a food and wine lover's paradise, with a thriving arts scene to boot. With over 350 working artists and crafters in traditional, modern, and Mori arts working locally, you'll have no trouble selecting one-of-a-kind mementos to take home.

Split Apple Rock

Moonraker Way, Kaiteriteri 7197, New Zealand

Add on: Middle‑earth™ and the Pelorus River

Why not spend a day between Blenheim and Nelson exploring the picturesque reserves and forest glades? Tracks leading to waterfalls and rock pools may be found, or hike over a ridge to a 417-meter summit can be found. There is also some MiddleearthTM magic in this location. Pelorus Bridge was chosen by Peter Jackson to film scenes from The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. The dwarfs were filmed floating down the river on barrels, an event Stephen Hunter, who played dwarf Bombur, referred to as "his favorite day on set."

Te Hoiere / Pelorus River

Te Hoiere / Pelorus River, Marlborough, New Zealand

Day 2: Wildlife encounters in Abel Tasman National Park

Visit Abel Tasman National Park for the ultimate wilderness and animal fix. The areas between the tidal line and the natural vegetation are filled with attractive golden sand beaches. Friendly marine creatures are a constant part of the scenery, while crystal clear streams fall down mossy valleys to join the ocean.

Abel Tasman National Park

South Island 7183, New Zealand

Day 3: Get active in Nelson Lakes National Park

Travel south from here to St Arnaud, a lovely town on the edge of Lake Rotoiti. The lush forests and mountains of Nelson Lakes National Park are easily accessible from St Arnaud. There are several beautiful day hikes to select from.

Lake Rotoiti

Lake Rotoiti, Tasman 7072, New Zealand

Day 4: Head to Punakaiki and Hokitika

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks is a must-see for anybody visiting the West Coast. These historic limestone stacks, which date back over 30 million years, are the region's most popular natural attraction. To see the blowholes in action, go during high tide. From here, travel to Hokitika, which is known for its pounamu (greenstone) jewelry and art. Local pounamu can be purchased or you can carve a piece for yourself.