...where stories of our region cover all seasons!
The Nelson Tasman region is home to a host of unique cultural experiences. The European birthplace of the nation was first recorded at Golden Bay, much earlier known as Murderers Bay. The Dutch explorer, Abel Tasman attempted to land but weighed anchor and sailed off after an unexpected altercation with local Maori resulted in four of his crew being killed. It was many years later in the early 1840s when the first formal European settlement (English and German settlement) took place.
The region takes pride in its early history and is so named after the Dutch Explorer, Abel Tasman and the English, Lord Horatio Nelson, Admiral of the Fleet of the successful Battle of Trafalgar off the coast of England between 1822-1824, against Napolean Bonaparte. Enjoy exploring the myriad of heritage sites and museums around the region. A contemporary new museum, the Nelson Provincial Museum, in the centre of Nelson city showcases our early Māori and European culture.
Another unique aspect of the region is the exceptionally strong arts culture the region has developed over the last thirty years. Nelson Tasman is regarded as the creative arts centre of New Zealand. Don't leave the region without exploring this special cultural element that makes us who we are.
Early Settlers
Like to see how our early European settlers lived? Both Founders Park in Nelson, Broadgreen House in Stoke and South Street have buildings and historical memorabilia on display.
Treasured Pathway
The Treasured Pathway is a guide which turns a drive through Nelson into a tour of the human and natural history of the region. Available from the region’s i-SITE Visitor Centres or check out www.treasuredpathway.co.nz
Maori Culture
Enrich your understanding of local Māori culture and history by arranging a visit to the Wakatu Marae. Try some hands-on fun, like an art and craft workshop, or learn te haka - the Māori war dance, take a bush walk with a Māori guide to learn about edible and medicinal plants.
Creative Tourism
Creative Tourism New Zealand is based in Nelson and offers a range of informal workshops in a variety of arts, crafts and traditions that reflect New Zealand’s unique culture. Cultural tourism is more than just looking at art on gallery walls; it’s about exploring your creative potential. What better way to do this than by spending time in the company of an expert.
Contemporary Culture
There’s a lot to celebrate in our contemporary lives - here’re some of the defining local experiences; the Saturday morning market in Nelson city - every Saturday throughout the year; in summer watch the sails go by at the Wednesday night yacht races in the harbour; the Antique and Classic Boat Show is held on Lake Rotoiti in March; try a spot of fishing from the wharf or Rocks Road for year-round relaxation; the Blessing of the Fleet attracts the whole family for fish ‘n’ chips, fishing boats and fun on the Nelson waterfront in July, and just about any season, there’s always something different to do, eat and enjoy on Coastal Highway day trips.
