Nelson Restaurants/Attractions

  • Smugglers Pub & Cafe

    Address:
    8 Muritai St, Tahunanui, Nelson 7011 .

    Smugglers Pub & Cafehttps://smugglerspub.co.nz/ 

    SUPREME WINNER TOP SHOP 2014 and WINNER FOOD, BEVERAGE & HOSPITALITY CATEGORY - NELSON 2014 Whether your a local or simply planning a trip to the Nelson Region you can't go past a visit to this unique smugglers cove like Ale house. Hearty meals, local foaming ales and crafted regional wines are waiting for you in the unique olde world atmosphere of Smugglers Pub & Cafe. Whether you warm up by the fire in the winter or cool off in the beer garden in the summer the wenches are only to happy to serve you up a great feast all washed down with your favorite ale. Smugglers is the place where visitors can eat and drink with the locals. The dining area is seperate to the main bar area, and you are equally welcome if you are staying for a meal or popping in for a quick drink or coffee. Smugglers has a gourmet style restaurant menu and stocks a large range of wine and beer. From regional wines, Mac's craft Beers, Traditional Guiness and Stella Artois. Relax and enjoy the atmosphere of Smugglers Pub & Cafe. Smugglers Pub & Cafe can also easily accommodate large groups. Your crew can enjoy a visit to the Captains table, a stone banquet slab with inset fire place that seats up to 24 guests. It's a real favorite for an evening of fun, feasting, merriment and lots of arrrrghhhh!

    Panhead Supercharger APA now available on Tap 
    Hops are where it starts for the born-again craft head and Supercharger APA is where Panhead delivers. This is an all-American show with Centennial, Citra and Simcoe overwhelming your nose, kicking you in the taste buds and departing with more bitterness than a Palm Springs divorce. It's a seriously addictive combination.

    Just a short walk away from the Arcadia!

    www.smugglerspub.co.nz 

  • Styx Kitchen & Bar

    Address:
    272 Wakefield Quay .

    Styx Kitchen & Bar:  

    The Styx sits on Wakefield Quay, with a stunning panoramic view of Tasman Bay. Located halfway between Tahuna Beach and downtown Nelson, The Styx is the perfect destination for both tourists and locals.

    The Styx is at the heart of it all in Nelson, offering a unique blend of food, beverages and service. Featuring both local and regional wines, craft beers, and the wonderful swallow coffee roasted by the folks at Sublime, we are certain you will find your happiness at The Styx.

    Each morning, our chefs are in the kitchen baking fresh cakes, scones, and muffins. We partner with the local fish market to craft daily specials that vary with the daily catch. Our menu features seafood specials, homemade pizzas, and burgers. The Styx takes great pride in the fact that you can sit and watch fishing boats roll into Port Nelson from the Tasman Bay and within a couple of hours one of our wait staff can deliver their catch cooked to perfection to your table.

    The Styx sits on Wakefield Quay, with a stunning panoramic view of Tasman Bay. Located halfway between Tahuna Beach and downtown Nelson, The Styx is the perfect destination for both tourists and locals.

    The Styx is at the heart of it all in Nelson, offering a unique blend of food, beverages and service. Featuring both local and regional wines, craft beers, and the wonderful Swallow Coffee roasted by the folks at Sublime, we are certain you will find your happiness at The Styx.

  • The Anchor Restaurant & Bar

    Address:
    62 Vickermans St. Port Nelson .

    The Anchor Bar & Grill: https://www.anchorrestaurant.co.nz/

    Discover all that the Anchor Restaurant and Bar has to offer! In our 16 years of operation we have built up a diverse clientele. You will love our unique spot on the water overlooking the marina. Fresh caught local seafood and steaks are our speciality, but our menu offers excellent options for all tastes!

    We are open for brunch, lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Just a short few minutes drive from the Arcadia!

  • Nelson Links Golf Course

    Address:
    38 Bolt Road, Tahunanui, Nelson .

    Nelson Links Golf Course: 

    Highlights:

    • The course at Nelson Golf Club is a superbly crafted links golf course that blends seamlessly into the natural coastal terrain.
    • You'll get to enjoy 18 holes of golf while being surrounded with spectacular natural scenery.
    • Home of the 2014 NZ Amateur Championship, the 2015 NZ Seniors Championship and the 2016 NZ Junior Championship, Nelson Golf Club prioritizes quality above all.
    • With fantastic greens and a challenging layout, this course is suitable for golfers of all levels.
    • Arcadia Motel just 1.5k away.

    Total Golf:   https://totalgolf.co.nz/

    The best place in Nelson to purchase equipment or to have one on one coaching lessons by NZPGA AA professionals. Really friendly coaches on an amazing course. A great way to improve your game.

  • Centre of New Zealand

    Address:
    Corner of Hardy Street and Milton Street .

    Centre of New Zealand: 

    An awesome walk up Botanical Hill which provides superb views all over Nelson. Well worth the climb. Guaranteed to get some fantastic pictures! A 20-60 minute walk dependent on your fitness level The main pathway it is suitable for some push chairs and buggies. At the top the is a ring of seats to enjoy the stunning views and over look the Mai Tai Valley, Nelson City and Nelson Port and the Harbour.  You can also pick out Nelsons landmarks from the information panels.You can go back downhill on any one of the other tracks on the Botanical Hill, or you can head along the hillside to Walters Bluff. In the heat of the Summer a good option is to take your togs and walk down the eastern side of the hill to Branford Park and take a refreshing swim at Black Hole and then take the Maitai Track back to your original starting point.

  • Rabbit Island

    Address:
    Redwood Road .

    Rabbit Island:  https://nelson.co.nz/info-rabbit-island/

    The long narrow island runs east-west for 8 kilometres, and covers 15 km². It lies opposite the mouth of the Waimea River, 7 kilometres to the west of Richmond. Rabbit Island is such a great Recreational Reserve with some awesome Beaches, forest's, BBQ areas for cooking your lunch or dinner.

     Swimming:

    With 8ks of sandy beaches its ideal if you are a sun worshiper. It is a fantastic place to unwind and relax and while away the summer hours swimming and laying in the sun.

    Mountain Biking: https://www.trailforks.com/trails/connifer-park-track/

    Easy mountain biking around Rabbit Island through the forest. Great way to explore! 

    https://nzcycletrail.com

    Starting from Nelson there is an amazing cycle trail that has been built over the last few years. A great experience for cyclists of all ages.

    Stages from Nelson to Rabbit Island.

    Nelson—Mapua  

    35km, easy, 2–3 hours

    This is one of the trails’ classic day trips, starting in central Nelson (where there’s bike hire) and taking in Waimea Estuary and Rabbit Island scenery along the way. The Mapua ferry http://www.mapuaferry.co.nz is a neat way to finish the trip, as is a meal, beer or a spot of shopping in the waterside village of Mapua.

    Motueka—Kaiteriteri (return)

    32km, easy, 2–3 hours

    A ride to Kaiteriteri and back is a lovely option from Motueka (where there’s bike hire), offering both bucolic and bayside scenery along with fruit stalls, a brewery and cafes, plus the golden sands of Kaiteriteri Beach. It also traverses the smooth, main trail through Kaiteriteri MTB Park – a chance to feel the ‘flow’ of expertly built mountain tracks if you’ve never had that buzz before.

    It is a mix of rural, urban, coastal and riverside scenery. This trail serves up tantalizing arrays of tasty attractions – from art galleries and boutique shopping, to fruit stalls, cafes, craft beer pubs and winery restaurants.

    Forming a big loop around the Nelson–Tasman region, the trail can be enjoyed in full over several days or dipped into on short hops or day rides. Base yourself in one place or overnight along the way – either way you’re set for a super-sweet sightseeing tour with flavours to suit almost anyone.

     

  • Tahunanui Beach

    Address:
    Tahunanui Beach .

    Tahunanui Beach: 

    The awesome Tahunanui Beach! Fun in the sun for everyone. An amazing sunset stroll or just a great day out relaxing on the beach with a picnic. There is a variety of playgrounds available for the kids and a very nice Beach Cafe. 600m Walk from the Arcadia Motel! 

    Tahunanui beach is a great location for swimming. There is generally no large waves and the sand gradient of the beach is shallow. The beach is a popular place, especially during the summer, with the beach well suited to family usage. There are a wide range of other activities in the ‘fun park’ immediately adjacent to the beach, and good facilities are provided. The beach is patrolled by Nelson Surf Life Saving Club in the weekends of the summer months.

  • Abel Tasman National Park

    Address:
    Kaiteriteri Beach .

    The Abel Tasman National Park: https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/nelson-tasman/places/abel-tasman-national-park/

    The Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its world-famous coastal walking track, its golden sand beaches, unmodified estuaries, sculptured granite cliffs and mild climate.

    It is a great place to visit at any time of year though during summer the park is particularly popular. The bays become busy with sea kayaks, sailing boats and other water crafts.

    The track hugs the coast, offering spectacular views of the coves and beaches as you reach the top of a ridge, then it’s back down to the next sheltered swimming and picnic spot. 

    Noticeable features are the golden sand beaches,the fascinating rocky outcrops (mainly granite but with a scattering of limestone and marble), the estuaries and the offshore islands. The vegetation cover varies and reflects a history of fires and land clearance, but the forests are regenerating well, especially in damp gullies where a rich variety of plants can be found.

    Abel Tasman Boat Trips:  

    Departing from Kaiteriteri starts from 9am. Here you can boat in to the beach of your choice and take a coastal track for a walk, this can be from 1 45 mins (5k) up to 4 hrs (11k) long depending on the route chosen, and then the boat collects you from your final destination . This is a trip of a lifetime, the photographs you will come away with will be memories of an awesome trip and an adventure in the Abel Tasman National Park.

    Kayak:

    There are plenty of Kayak companies working out of Kaiteriteri and Marahau with a variety for options from the family paddle to the experienced guided Kayak trip. Half day and full day tours, even some 2 day overnight trips to include a camp out. Fun for all ages and abilities. 

    Walks and tramping:

    Should you just wish to go for a walk or a tramp (or you do not like boats!) the start of the Abel Tasman National Park is at Marahau. You can start the walk from the beginning, walking up to Apple Tree Bay and back, or hike out to Anchorage and get the boat back.

    You can walk the entire park which can take up to 2-3 days. There are camping sites available or DOC huts which needs to be booked well in advance, especially over the summer season. https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/nelson-tasman/places/abel-tasman-national-park/things-to-do/tracks/abel-tasman-coast-track/fees-and-bookings

    Camping supplies are available in Nelson at the following places:

    Torpedo 7 

    Hunting and Fishing

    Gear Shop

    MD Outdoors

      

     

  • Nelson Cycle Trail

    Address:
    Starts at Nelson Airport .

    Nelson Cycle Trail: https://nzcycletrail.com/find-your-ride/22-great-rides/tasmans-great-taste-trail/

    Bring your own or get rental bicycles (Arcadia Tour desk can assist!) and have an amazing day out traveling the Nelson Cycle trail!

    Tasman’s Great Taste Trail starts at the Nelson Airport and offers panoramic coastal and mountain views over Tasman Bay, Waimea Estuary and the Western Ranges, with many stops for fine food and relaxation.

    After leaving Richmond, riders pass over boardwalks along the edge of the Waimea Estuary, home to a range of internationally significant bird species, including the white heron and royal spoonbill.

    From here the trail crosses to Rabbit Island, where riders can take a boat trip to the Mapua wharf and enjoy cottage-industry shops, cafés and restaurants.

    From Mapua the route leads via Tasman and Harley Roads to Motueka, which hosts award-winning wineries; then on to Kaiteriteri, the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park.

    The Motueka Valley section of the trail from Riwaka goes to Woodstock on country roads along the Motueka River’s west bank. The picturesque landscape is one of rivers and rolling hills with a gorgeous backdrop of forest and mountains.

    From Woodstock, a Grade 3 route heads over Dovedale Hill to Wakefield on an unsealed undulating country road that climbs up to 300m. This route is temporary and will be replaced with a flatter route via Tapawera and Kohatu Junction in the future.

    From Wakefield, the trail returns to Nelson on purpose-built cycle paths and lanes and takes riders through vineyards and cafés, The full loop is 175km. From Wakefield, a 26km return side trip can be taken to historic Spooners Tunnel.

  • Natureland Zoo

    Address:
    1 Hounsell Circle Tahunanui Beach Nelson 7011 New Zealand .

    Natureland Zoo: https://natureland.nz/

    Natureland is Nelson's zoo and wildlife conservation center is where you can get up close and personal to some unique New Zealand animals. Hang with the monkeys and get hands on with a range of interesting domestic and non domestic animals. They are proud to be a community focused charitable trust. Kids love feeding time, so go spend an hour or two among the awesome animals down at Natureland Zoo. 

    Natureland Wildlife Trust's is a community based conservation organization. They are proud to be a safe, affordable, and an accessible place for families to engage with animals have fun and bring the wild into Nelson. Their space is a platform for not only for their work, but also to share with you stories about the work that other people and groups are also doing to save wildlife.

    No single organization can accomplish wildlife conservation all on its own. Natureland works with other members of the Zoo and Aquarium Association, Nelson City Council. the Department of Conservation, and our conservation partners to achieve great outcomes. 

    Did you know that accredited zoos are the third largest contributors to global conservation projects? Natureland are proud to have the highest proportional impact for conservation of any accredited zoo in New Zealand. They are also growing into one of the most important sites for nature play in children's' increasingly urban lifestyles. 

  • Nelson Fun Park

    Address:
    10 Hounsell circle, Tahunanui, Nelson New Zealand 7010 .

    Nelson Fun Park: https://www.nelsonfunpark.co.nz/

    Family fun in Nelson at Nelson Fun Park in Tahunanui!  Bring a picnic to enjoy poolside at one of our picnic tables by the bumper boats and hydro-slide!  Open late spring, all through summer and into the autumn for loads of sunshine entertainment.  Something for every member of the family! Just 2 minutes from the Arcadia!

    Hydro-Slide: A thrilling water slide that the kids will just want to go again and again. Blacked out to make it more exciting the rider will experience twists and turns to an eventual splash down in the pools below!

    Bumper Boats: Enjoy a ride on the bumper boats. Race around the pool and splash Mum & Dad!

    Mini Golf: Challenge the family to a mini golf competition! Putt your way round an 18 hole course for bragging rights at the end of the day! Anyone can win!   

  • Pro-Karts, Pro-Combat Laser Tag & Pro Bounce

    Address:
    Houncell Circle, Tahunanui, Tahunanui, Nelson 7011 .

    Pro-Karts & Combat Laser Tag: https://www.prokarts.co.nz/ 

    Pro Karts at Tahunanui Beach offer one of the most exciting & fun activities in Nelson.

    Pro-Karts have have 3 different karting options. The Pro Karts are for everyone 12 years and over, Fun Karts for anyone, adults and children 7 years and over, and also now the new Two Seater Go Karts for kids 3-8 years of age and an adult. Our new Two Seater Go Karts race at the same time as our Fun Karts.

    There are some new options for our Arrive and Drives on our Pro Karts and Fun Karts.

    Race for 10 or 15 minutes.  If it doesn't quite go your way, you have another chance to beat your mates in a second race.  Opt for ten plus ten minutes, ten plus fifteen minutes, or fifteen plus fifteen minutes. Can't get much better than that.

    GRAND PRIX (Event 1) 

    EACH DRIVER WILL COMPLETE:

    • 5 minutes warm up
    • Two qualifying heats of 12 laps 

    TOP 8 DRIVERS WILL COMPLETE:

    Grand Prix race of 18 laps.

    The race winner is the overall Grand Prix winner.

    Maximum 32 drivers

    For larger groups you may wish to add semi finals to your event. Booking time required, maximum 1 1/4 hours (Based on 6-16 people)

    Pro Combat:

    Have a go at playing Laser Tag, Nelson's newest most exciting & fun activities!!Play a series of missions, each game a different mission, each purposely designed to ensure an adrenaline packed simulated combat experience!
    Using State of the art MP5 weapons that fire harmless infrared beams, playing is safe, painless and with no extra ammunition required, its great value for money! Suitable for Ages 6+.

    Pro Bounce: 

    Pro Bounce and More is a trampoline world with something for everyone, Bounce Zone, Walking walls, Challenge walls, Airbag, Basketball hoops (Slam dunk), Dodge ball count, All new Wipe Out and a separate kids area. Relax and enjoy a Coffee in our beautiful outdoor setting while your children bounce and flip on our huge trampoline park to their hearts content.

  • Kite Surf Nelson

    Address:
    4-5 The Sands, 623 Rocks Road Tahunanui, .

    Kite Surf Nelson: 

    Kite Surf Nelson are the only specialist Watersports Retailer in the region. They are great with all information on kiting gear and best spots to surf in the top of the South Island. Their Kite Surf school provides awesome lessons for beginners and from their IKO training instructors down at Tahunanui Beach. 

    They also rent SUPs (stand up paddle boards) for all sizes and shapes of riders and run SUP Races every second Sunday through the summer season.

     

     

  • The Suter Art Gallery

    Address:
    208 Bridge Street Nelson 7010 New Zealand .

    The Suter Art Gallery: 

    New Zealand's third oldest art museum has an important art collection, and is a gateway to the Nelson region of New Zealand arts and crafts. Free Entry All Year Round!

    The Suter Collection

    The Suter Art Gallery has a collection of national significance and includes local, national and international art spanning over 200 years.

    Highlights include:

    • New Zealand’s largest collection of watercolours by the nineteenth century landscape artist, John Gully. 
    • A representative collection of works by Sir Mountford Tosswill Woollaston, one of the founders of modern art in New Zealand.
    • Examples of British Modernism including paintings by William Gear, Ivon Hitchens and Bryan Wynter.
    • A significant collection of works by ceramic artists of national and local renown.

    Suter Cafe:

    The Suter Café is open daily from 8.00am until 4:30pm, Delicious Havana Coffee and gourmet food and tasty treats are available, from gluten or dairy free, vegetarian or vegan. 

    Suter Gift Shop:

    Discover a range of  locally crafted beautiful objects available in The Suter Store. Opens daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm and located between the galleries and popular café

    The Suter History: (From Suter Web Page)

    The Suter Art Gallery Te Aratoi o Whakatū is a memorial to the second Bishop of Nelson, Andrew Burn Suter. Bishop Suter and his wife Amelia travelled to Nelson in 1867 to lead the Anglican diocese and they became major figures in early Nelson society. In addition to his official duties, Bishop Suter also busied himself with artistic pursuits as a recreational painter and collector of art. In 1889 he established the Bishopdale Sketching Club (now the Nelson Suter Art Society) and served as its first President and critic. He was also a friend of the painter John Gully and developed a substantial collection of that artist’s work.

    In 1890, the Bishop suffered a stroke which left him incapacitated for the last five years of his life. During this period he discussed his ‘long cherished wish’ to present an art gallery to the people of Nelson. Immediately after the Bishop’s death in 1895, Amelia began to realise her husband’s dream. She gifted some land, money and Bishop Suter’s art collection as the founding donation. Herself unwell, Amelia then returned to England and died barely a year after her husband.

    Amelia left the building of a gallery in the hands of the founding Board of Trustees, comprising leading figures in Nelson society. In 1899 the ‘Bishop Suter Art Gallery’ designed by Frederick de Jersey Clere and was opened alongside the old Matthew Campbell School. In 2007 it was designated as a Category II Heritage Building.

    In 2016 work was completed on a major redevelopment of The Suter. Significantly expanding the galleries spaces the project also included strengthening and protecting the original heritage building.

  • Trafalgar Center

    Address:
    13 Paru Paru Rd, Nelson, Nelson 7010, New Zealand .

    Trafalgar Center: 

    The Trafalgar Center is Nelson Tasman’s largest multi-purpose spectator sports and events arena. Built in the early 1970s originally as a sports stadium, the Center has a history of hosting major cultural and entertainment events, and exhibitions.

    Just a 10-minute stroll to the vibrant city center and a 20-minute ocean drive from the airport, the Trafalgar Center has been recently earthquake strengthened and upgraded. It contains two key spaces, the main arena and the new northern extension. 

    Holding a mixture of successful sporting, music concerts and Expos the Trafalgar Center has become a valued venue for Nelson.

  • Founders Park

    Address:
    87 Atawhai Drive in Nelson .

    Founders Park: 

    Explore displays of Nelson's heritage and learn the stories of our local people. Visit businesses and artisans in character buildings. Take a ride on the train and relax at the award winning Founders and McCashins Brewery Cafes & Bars, set in quaint streets among village greens and beautiful well established gardens.

  • Trafalgar Park

    Address:
    The Wood & Trafalgar St, The Wood, Nelson 7010 .

    Trafalgar Park:

    Trafalgar Park is one of Nelson’s oldest and largest parks, with sporting use dating to the 1880s. The park sits next to the Maitai River, nestled between the city and the Haven.

    Trafalgar Park is used for rugby, cricket, athletics, track cycling, marching and many other events. It has Brass band rooms, squash courts, and sports club rooms.

    Trafalgar Park sits on the East bank of the Maitai River, opposite Rutherford Park. It is bounded by Queen Elizabeth II Drive, Trafalgar Street and Hathaway Court.  It is located within minutes of the Nelson CBD.

    Recent Additions:

    Lights:

    The tallest and heaviest additions were the eight large light fixtures erected by using massive cranes in June 2011. All together, the fixtures house 192 floodlights that make the Park about three times brighter during night games than the old lights, bringing it up to broadcast standards.

    The new lights are designed to focus the light inward toward the Park with only minimal spill on the neighbouring homes.

    Turf:

    The Park is the first in New Zealand to use recycled glass sand which forms the base of the turf. Recycled glass sand is an environmentally sustainable material because it is readily available and it doesn’t take away from existing natural resources of sand that are in limited supply. The amount used for the Trafalgar Park carpet turf equals approximately 7% of the glass recycled annually in the South Island.

    Gates:

    The new main gate – the Trafalgar Gate on the corner of Trafalgar Street and Hathaway Terrace – is ready to welcome ticket holders and ticket buyers.

    The Maitai Gate built at the end of Hathaway Terrace – is ready to welcome ticket holders and ticket buyers.

    The Wainui Gate on Trafalgar Street across from Wainui Street – is ready to welcome ticket holders.

    Toilets:

    New toilet stalls included at the main entrance, and a new toilet block in the northwest corner behind the western stands.

    History:

    Trafalgar Park was originally owned and developed by a private company called ‘The Nelson Athletic Ground Company’, which developed the grounds in the very early days of Nelson’s settlement.

    Originally known as The Mudflat Recreation Ground, Trafalgar Park was built on eight acres of reclaimed land by the Nelson Athletic Ground Company.

    The athletic ground was reclaimed from tidal flats of the Maitai River. Sheep were used to maintain the grass and were removed before any major events.

    When the land wars broke out in Taranaki in the 1860s, Nelson was a flourishing settlement. As well as sending troops to Taranaki, the Taranaki Land War refugees were welcomed to settle in Nelson.

    A year later in 1892 an endowment from Nelson businessman and benefactor, Thomas Cawthron was used to add more land to the Park. On July 6, 1891 the Nelson City Council bought the land.

    Initial funds for the City Council to purchase Trafalgar Park in 1891 came from the remainder of a loan established to help Taranaki Land War refugees.  The Trafalgar Park Purchasing Act 1891 states the Park would be used 'as a recreation ground and for other purposes connected with the athletic sports and other recreations of the inhabitants of the City of Nelson and the surrounding districts'.

    Trafalgar Park Grand Opening

    A grand opening celebrated with a football match 'Fifteen V Eighteen' with players selected from the various town clubs was held 21 April 1888. No doubt this was influenced by the first game of football held on May 14 1870, at the Botanics just down the road, where a new version of football was trialed, later to be called rugby.

    Trafalgar Park background 1880 - 2011

    Trafalgar Park had been used for cricket as early as the 1880s, with other sports added over the years. The Trafalgar Park Stadium was developed in the 1950’s when the Rugby Union obtained a renewable lease for the winter season at the park. This allowed the union along with the council to undertake some capital improvements and to build the eastern grandstand and install the sunshine seats on the western embankment. The grounds were used for all manner of recreational activities however the main users at that time were athletics, cricket and rugby.

    An Australian cricket tour just before World War II drew a big crowd to the game against a local XI at Trafalgar Park. The Mayor declared a half day holiday and extra trains were laid on to bring in the country fans. After a night of heavy rain, the game began at 2.30pm on a wicket described as 'in fair order though on the heavy side' in the Colonist newspaper. The Australians were declared at tea time on the second day of play, winners by just ten wickets against the provincial side.

    (Information from the Colonial Album series, supplied to the Nelson Mail by the Nelson Provincial Museum in 1987).

    There were little further developments at the park until the mid 1980’s when a final reclamation along the Maitai River bank gave the park its current shape and allowed development of the No. 2 field to compensate for the land lost to the state highway development.

    In 1996 the Trafalgar Park Pavilion, was built on the western side of the field, which greatly improved the facilities available. The installation of arena floodlighting at the park opened up opportunities for night-time events, in 1997.

    An upgrade to Trafalgar Park that increased the seating capacity to more than 2,600 was completed in February 2008. Two new grandstands were built on either side of the Trafalgar Park Pavilion that feature covered seating for 1,360 seats.

    Significant improvements are being made in preparation for the hosting of three Rugby World Cup 2011 matches starting September 2011.

    Royal Visitor in 1954

    Perhaps the Park's most notable visitor did not come to play any sport. The visit from Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip in 1954 was Nelson's first from a reigning monarch.

    Plenty of 'baby boomers' around Nelson remember a big day in their primary school years, when they went to Trafalgar Park to see the Queen. The visit from Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip in 1954 was Nelson's first from a reigning monarch.
    The program stated:'Sat, Jan 16: Some thousands of children will assemble at Park by 11am and will be entertained there during the day. Procession of Decorated Floats, leaving Tahunanui 10.30 am for Trafalgar Park. Procession then followed by children through the town. Children returned afterwards to the Park.'

    In the evening, the park was crowded with spectators for displays from marching girls, axmen, Scottish dancers, bands and the sword club.

    Opera in the Park Concerts

    In recent years the Park has been used for music concerts and other entertainment as well. One of the most attractive aspects of Trafalgar Park is its proximity to the Nelson central business district.

    In 2008 the Sealord Opera in The Park the premier event of Nelson City Council’s summer festival, featured internationally acclaimed diva, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa. To mark this popular event’s 10th anniversary and the 150th anniversary of Nelson being given city status by Queen Victoria, this special concert was organised.

    Dame Kiri te Kanawa, one of the world’s best loved and respected sopranos, returned to New Zealand for a one-off performance in Nelson.

    Heritage notes

    Listed features around the park include the old fire station building in Halifax Street (now a real estate office), and the large Pin Oak growing between the croquet lawns and Halifax Street is listed and protected as a 'Landscape' tree.

    Please note all Nelson City Council facilities are smokefree.

     

  • Saxton Sporting Stadium, Oval & Hockey and Athletics Track

    Address:
    Stoke, Nelson 7011 .

    Saxton Stadium: http://www.nelson.govt.nz/recreation/venues-and-grounds/saxton-stadium-2

    http://www.sporttasman.org.nz/saxtonstadium 

    Saxton Stadium is located within the 65 hectare Saxton Field sports park development and is the main sporting facility for Nelson & Tasman. 

    The stadium covers an area of 7,000m2 and incorporates the following facilities; five international sized netball courts, five basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, a separate purpose built table tennis area. Also a separate  Hockey and Softball field and pavilion.

    Saxton Oval: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saxton_Oval

    The Saxton Oval also known as Saxton Field is a cricket ground in Saxton, Stoke, Nelson Region, New Zealand. Saxton Oval was announced as one of the venues for the 2015 Cricket World Cup. It is now a common venue for International matches and hosts many international teams during the year.

    Saxton Athletics Track: https://athleticsnelson.co.nz/

    It was literally a field of dreams. Through the efforts of several local athletics enthusiasts and the generosity of the Nelson City and Tasman District Councils, the cattle field adjacent to Saxton Field was turned into the first athletics track facility on the top of the South Island. Many weekly events from Cross Country, Walking, Track and Field during summer months and Marathons. 

     

  • Waahi Taakaro Golf Course

    Address:
    336 Maitai Valley Road, Maitai, New Zealand .

    Waahi Taakaro Golf Course:  https://www.waahitaakarogolfclub.co.nz/

    The course is owned by Nelson City Council and set out on park and reserve land, they are also responsible for maintaining it to a very high standard.

    It is playable to a 10-hole layout with two sets of tees on every hole. They provide different views, angles and distances to make it enjoyable. Two Tees No 9 and No 10 offer challenging opening and closing shots cross the Maitai  river.  Its wise to play safe as there is either out of bounds or water on every hole. You have to be accurate as the greens require accurate approach shots and are small and to hit.

    One really great benefit with Maitai is they are in a valley and on a windy day are somewhat sheltered also they remain green over summer.

    The course is 5226m off the yellow tees, 5552m off the white tees and a challenging 5936m off the blue tees. The slope rating for the course – a measure of its difficulty - is 115 off the white tees, 120 off the blue tees and 121 off the yellow tees. This compares to a NZ average of 113. Take a virtual tour on their website! 

     

  • Green Acres Golf Course

    Address:
    4 Barnett Avenue, Best Island, Richmond, New Zealand .

    Green Acres Golf Course:

    Green Acres is a challenging 18 hole course situated on Best Island near Richmond. The course is adjacent to a tidal inlet and so water does come into play on quite a few holes. Most holes are tree lined and do provide stunning scenery to enjoy on your way around. Green Acres is a great, enjoyable golfing experience for players of all ages and skill levels, it is built on sand and so is a true Links course providing excellent drainage in poor weather conditions. 

     

  • Christ Church Cathedral

    Address:
    Christ Church Trafalgar Square, Nelson 7010, New Zealand .

    Christ Church Cathedral: https://nelsoncathedral.nz/

    Nelson Cathedral building overlooks the main street of Nelson City. With recent statics it shows that Nelson has one of the most-visited Cathedrals in the country.

    Opening times to the public are from 9am to at least 6.00pm all year round.

    The Cathedrals Personal testimonies and our visitors’ books indicate that our building speaks very strongly to people of all ages and nationalities with many commenting on the peaceful atmosphere. Some come to seek God, and others to explore the history of the Cathedral and the City. The stained glass windows are of particular interest to visitors.

    We have recently installed several Prayer Stations within the Cathedral Building to enhance the spiritual experience of visitors.

  • Richmond Mall

    Address:
    Corner Queen, Croucher and Talbot Streets .

    Richmond Mall: 

    Richmond Mall is the largest shopping destination in the region with over 70 stores and the regions only food court. It has been a community hub and a favourite shopping destination for locals and visitors for over 40 years.

    Stores include:

    SuperMarkets / Department Stores

    Food Court / Food Outlets

    Fashion & Jewellery

    Hair, Health & Beauty

    Lifestyle and Leisure

    Banks  

    MALL OPENING HOURS

    • Monday - Wednesday 9:00am - 5:30pm
    • Thursday 9:00am - 8:00pm
    • Friday 9:00am - 5:30pm
    • Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm
    • Sunday 10:00am - 4:00pm
    • Public Holidays 10:00am - 4:00pm

    SUPERMARKET OPENING HOURS

    PAK'NSAVE

    • Monday – Wednesday 8:00am – 9:00pm
    • Thursday 8:00am – 10:00pm
    • Friday 8:00am – 9:00pm
    • Saturday - Sunday 8:00am – 9:00pm
  • The Sands Brewery Bar & Kitchen

    Address:
    643 Rocks Rd, Moana, Nelson, New Zealand .

    The Sands Brewery Bar & Kitchen: 

    The Sands is a Monteiths themed brewery bar serving the wide range of Monteiths and Heineken beers, Halo Coffee have in or takeaway.

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner options from 8am until 5.00 pm, Good food at reasonable prices! Nice outdoor patio area to while away the summer days with a cool beer or hot coffee.

    Open 7 days (with no surcharge on public holidays). They also have a courtesy van operating 7 days a week so even though its only a short 5 minute walk from the Arcadia Motel we can call in and book you a ride.

  • Miyazu Japanese Gardens

    Address:
    Atawhai Drive, Nelson, New Zealand .

    Miyazu Japanese Gardens

    The Miyazu Garden honours its Japanese sister city in Miyazu Kyoto with a beautiful traditional Japanese garden. Right from the start there is the main ligneous gate which was made from salvaged wood from Nelson Port. Traditional ponds and Bamboo fields welcome you in to the quiet serene gardens. Great for a relax with the family or just a peaceful stroll to gather your thoughts. It’s nice to spend some time for reflection out of the hustle and bustle of the normal daily routine   The aim of Neslon City Council is to continue to develop and enhance the garden to make it a garden of peace and tranquillity.

  • Brooks Sanctuary

    Address:
    651 Brook St, The Brook, Nelson 7010, New Zealand .

    Like walking and Tramping? Love the natural forest, plants and animals? Awesome walks here at Brooks Sanctuary for both the beginners and the experienced. Take advantage of the scenery and trails through the forest and enjoy a fair few hours of easy walking. Bet you enjoy yourself! 

  • Wafu Bistro

    Address:
    80 Hardy Street, Nelson .

    If you love Japanese food this is the place for you! At Wafu Bistro you enjoy fresh fish dishes that are all specially and delicately prepared right in front of you by Sushi chef and owner, Yuki Takeoda. Yuki gives special attention to each and every dish and makes sure each plate is perfect for every guest.

    There is a good varied menu which mainly consists of raw fish sushi, sashimi, and nigiri that can be ordered piece by piece or in some very fine assorted plates and platters. Starters and hot items such as miso soup, chawan-mushi, and tempura fish compliment the main dishes very well.

    Wafu has a good selection and variety of Beverages available here including some great Sake, Wines and Beers.

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