Nelson

Lonely Planet describes Nelson as "one of NZ's most liveable cities".

The climate is great, the town centre is vibrant and there's so much to do - whether you feel like chilling out, shopping, being adventurous, getting creative, or exploring the beautiful National Parks.

Explore Nelson on foot. The town centre is an easy 5-10 minute flat walk from Almond House. Stroll up Trafalgar Street, the main street, towards the cathedral which overlooks the city. Check out Jens Hansen Jewellers where you can see the ring from Lord of the Rings. Next door is Flame Daisy where you can try your hand at blowing glass. Round the corner, South Street is New Zealand's oldest preserved historical street - the early settlers cottages are still lived in today. Pop into the South Street Gallery - which showcases the work of over 25 Nelson potters. Along Hardy and Bridge Streets, you'll find great shopping, and lots of restaurants and cafes. The Provincial Museum is located right in the heart of the city so take in some local history, and the Suter Art Gallery features interesting and thought-provoking exhibitions.

Saturday Markets The markets are held in Montgomery Square every Saturday from 8am-1pm - fresh picked fruit and veges, hand made breads, cheeses, smoked fish, artists, potters and jewellers. Always bright, colourful and interesting, the markets are great for browsing, people watching, buying gifts and sampling all the great food and drink.

World of Wearable Art & Collectable Cars Museum. The museum showcases many of the bizarre and spellbinding garments featured in the WOW Awards, along with an enthralling display of mint-condition classic cars.The WoW Festival is a performance showcase of pieces of art that can be worn and modelled. Fabrics can be traditional or very unusual.

Walks Walk along the Matai River and the many tracks on the Grampians or walk up the Centre of NZ. From Almond House, its a 1/2 hour walk to the top of the hill which is known as the Geographical Centre of NZ. It's well worth it for the rewarding views over the city of Nelson, westward to Motueka and the Abel Tasman National Park with the Western Ranges in the background. The sunsets are beautiful. There is the Cable Bay walkway for spectacular views.

Explore the beaches Nelson is home to some beautiful beaches and coastline. Five minutes drive from the town centre is Tahunanui Beach - a long stretch of golden white sand which is immensely popular in the summertime, but wonderful to walk along at any time of the year. In summer it is popular with kite-surfers - check out the action then book some lessons. About 1/2 hour drive from Nelson is Rabbit Island which features a 13km stretch of beach. 1/2 hours drive from Nelson in the other direction (heading toward Picton) is Cable Bay - where the beach is rocky but the water is calm and clear. Cable Bay Kayaks will take you for 1/2 or full day eco-tours of the area and the Cable Bay Cafe is a great place for a coffee or milkshake after a walk or swim.