Nelson City Walking Tour - Guided
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Nelson is a stunning, unique city in New Zealand, so whether it’s your first time in Nelson or you’re a seasoned visitor (or local!), our 2-3 hour city walking tour - ‘Nelson in a Nutshell’ will bring this beautiful and diverse city to life. Your tour guides are all resident Nelsonians who know the hidden gems, and with a unique insight give you a true flavour of the real Nelson. Discover Trafalgar Street, Christ Church Cathedral, The Lord of the Rings Jeweller, South Street heritage cottages, Queen’s Gardens, Suter Art Gallery, the Centre of New Zealand and so much more along the way. Prepare to be impressed!
Available options
Nelson City Walking Tour - Guided
What's included
Sanitiser
Sunscreen available for use
Free Eco Cup - water filling stations along the walk. Cups are re-usable and compostable
Tour Guide
Disposable Face Mask if required
Tour commentary
Detailed itinerary
1
Stroll up the main street of Nelson, viewing the varied architecture and art installations, until we reach the Cathedral which is a an elevated focal point of the cityscape. You can go inside the Cathedral after the tour, at your leisure.
We also visit South Street with its beautiful, historic heritage cottages.
2
Introduction to the Nelson Provincial Museum - home to fascinating artifacts and history of the Nelson area. You can revisit and pay a small entry fee after the tour.
3
Making our way down Hardy Street, with a vast array of architecture from all era's, we enter the stunning Victorian formal gardens with an historic eel pond that meanders through these spectacular grounds.
4
Lord of the Rings jeweller and studio visit.
Next door you can see stunning glass art at Flame Daisy, and often watch the artists at work from an external viewing platform.
5
Explore Nelson's foremost gallery with diverse exhibitions that will have you captivated.
6
Learn about the trigonometrical and gravitational centres of New Zealand. A walk to the monument at the top of the hill can be done separately to the tour if you're keen!
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
15 reviews
5★
13
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
46 reviews
5★
44
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If you wish to book for a single person, please contact us directly via email or telephone.
The walk is on sealed surfaces, mostly flat. Where there are a few steps, there is a ramp alternative for easy access
If parking a vehicle in Miller's Acre Car Park, it takes payment by card or coins; free parking is available in adjacent streets. Please ask your guide if further information is required.
Meeting point
Meet at Millers Acre Car Park-corner of Trafalgar Street & Halifax Street East, Nelson. You'll find us under the tree with the bench seating, near the buildings to the side of the car park. Look for our bright blue shirts & hats!
CRUISE SHIPS: Tours will be timed to start after you arrive in port
Important notes
Please show your ticket to the Tour Guides wearing Sunny Nelson Tours tee-shirts.
About Nelson
Nelson is a picturesque city known for its vibrant arts scene, stunning natural beauty, and relaxed coastal lifestyle. Nestled between the Tasman Bay and the foothills of the Southern Alps, it offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures.
Top Attractions
Tāhunanui Beach
A popular beach with golden sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
Half day
Free
World of WearableArt and Classic Cars Museum (WOW)
A unique museum showcasing innovative wearable art and classic cars in a stunning setting.
Museum
2-3 hours
NZD 25-35
Centre of New Zealand
A scenic lookout point marking the geographical center of New Zealand, offering panoramic views of the region.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Nelson Provincial Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Nelson region, with a variety of exhibits and artifacts.
Museum
1-2 hours
NZD 10-15
Abel Tasman National Park
A stunning national park known for its golden beaches, lush forests, and abundant wildlife.
Nature
Full day or overnight
Free entry, but activities may have fees
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fresh Seafood
Nelson is known for its fresh seafood, including salmon, crayfish, and mussels, often sourced locally.
Main Course
Gluten-free and low-carb options available
Artisan Bread and Pastries
Locally baked bread and pastries made with organic ingredients.
Breakfast/Snack
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Craft Beer
Nelson has a thriving craft beer scene with several local breweries offering unique and flavorful beers.
Drink
Gluten-free options available
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Mountain biking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Picnicking
Visiting museums
Attending festivals
Best Time to Visit
December to February
This is the summer season, perfect for beach activities, hiking, and outdoor festivals. The weather is warm and sunny, ideal for exploring the natural beauty of the region.
15°C to 24°C
59°F to 75°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Nelson is a generally safe destination with low crime rates. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of your surroundings
- • Use reputable transportation services
Getting there
By air
- Nelson Airport • 8 km from city center
By bus
Nelson InterCity Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus service is reliable and affordable, with frequent schedules. Buses are a convenient way to get around Nelson.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Tāhunanui
Stoke
Day trips
Abel Tasman National Park
60 km from Nelson • Full day or overnight
A stunning national park with golden beaches, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
Kaiteriteri
45 km from Nelson • Half day or full day
A beautiful beach town with golden sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Mapua
30 km from Nelson • Half day or full day
A charming coastal village with a mix of local shops, cafes, and art galleries. Known for its waterfront and local produce.
Festivals
Nelson Arts Festival • November
Taste Nelson Festival • March
Nelson Jazz Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit the Nelson Market on weekends for fresh produce, crafts, and local products
- Explore the Abel Tasman National Park for stunning beaches and hiking trails
- Try local seafood, especially salmon and crayfish, at waterfront restaurants
- Attend the Nelson Arts Festival in November for a vibrant celebration of the arts
- Take a day trip to Mapua for a charming coastal village experience with local shops and cafes
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
