Nelson in April

Tahunanui Beach

April is a superb time to visit Nelson, New Zealand. The weather is sunny and it doesn't get too hot. A good jacket is still needed in the evenings though as it can get chilly.

We flew down to Nelson via Air New Zealand and collected a rental car straight. There are a number of motels in the Nelson area and choice can be based on whether you want the city of close to the beautiful Tahunanui Beach.

After exploring Nelson township we decided to head north to Miyazu Park for a run around. The park is quite lovely with rock gardens and ponds. The children were delighted to find many painted rocks which is part of the craze rock hunting started by #nelson rocks. Families paint rocks and hide them for others to find. It was too much fun and some art quite inspiring.

Miyazu Park, Nelson

The next day we hopped in the rental and drove north to Pelorus Bridge, less than an hour. We found a lovely Campground and cafe that served good coffee and then went on a 45 minute round the river bush walk. Kids like nothing more than throwing rocks into a river.

After that break it was a quick trip to Havelock, a small town with a big heart. Art Galleries, Marina, Pub and the most excellent green lipped mussel dishes you will find.
The Mussel Pot has a great selection of dishes to try and the mussel platter is something to behold.

The Mussel Pot

Our accommodation for the next 4 nights would be at Riwaka Vineyard Estate where a small cottage beside the vineyard allows you country peace, access to fiejoas, figs, wine, pet dog, did I mention pinot noir?

Day trip started with a water taxi ride with Abel Tasman Water Taxis from Marahau. This in itself is an experience as our boat was towed by a tractor out to the ocean. From there our experienced captain took us on a short tour around the area explaining the Maori names, history and a drive by Adele Island where the seal pups were playing.

After 40 minutes we were dropped off at Anchorage beach along with a number of other day hikers and campers. Cleopatras Pool was our first destination for a picnic lunch. It's about 30 minutes each way for a family at pace. Perhaps in retrospect knowing there was another 12 km return to Marahau I wouldn't have added this bit onto the day.

The track is incredibly well maintained and birds and fauna keep the eye busy. My favorites are the Piwakawaka (fantail) which keep one company following as you walk.

It was hilarious when one of the children shouted out "kiwi" as we were walking in low bush. We all praised him as finding something so exciting and then to be reminded that kiwi are sleeping during the day. Aha! we had found a weka in fact.

Sunset is about 5.45 in April so we were definitely on a timetable to be heading in to Marahau by this time. Due to our sedate speed on the track we didn't have any time to take the side tracks towards the many bays and so I would like to visit the park again and navigate it from a kayak as the water is so beautiful.

The following day we drove for an hour over Takaka Hill. Amazing scenery from the top and then down into a lovely valley. The kids were very keen to visit Anatoki Salmon Farm where we could all have a go at fly fishing. If at first you don't succeed, then throw in a little pellet food and you can surely catch a fish. In fact, we caught 4 and spent several hours in this pleasant area. The team here will, fillet it and smoke it for a small fee and it is some of the most delicious salmon we have ever eaten.

Another bush walk opportunity at Te Waikoropupu Springs where the sounds of rushing river lull you into a certain peace and the beauty of the springs makes you pleased to have found this treasure.

Te Waikoropupu Springs

Kaiteriteri Beach

The beauty of this area is that everything is only a short drive and day trips can be easily planned. We popped across from Riwaka to Kaiteriteri Beach (only 15 minutes) and spent some time there between beach and playground. Safe for children and kayaks to hire make this beach very popular.

Mapua Wharf

On our way back to Nelson we stopped in at Mapua Wharf. A ferry operates to Rabbit Island and is well used by cyclists on the Great Taste Bike Trail. There are also a number of shops, galleries and restaurants to enjoy a driving break.