When you’re on holiday, it should go without saying that everything is as stress-free as possible. Which is exactly why landing at Nelson Airport and picking up a cheap car rental is definitely the right way to start your travel adventures in this beautiful region of New Zealand.
And once you’ve got all your bags in the hire car and seatbelts on, where to next? Here’s a few ideas, depending on what you’re in town for.
Romantic Getaway
There’s nothing quite like a romantic weekend getaway in Nelson. From luxurious accommodation to plenty of incredible restaurants where you can enjoy a meal while staring deeply into each other’s eyes – it’s a sweetheart’s paradise.
You could find a cute AirBnB on the water’s edge or set yourself up in the Rutherford Hotel, Nelson’s only fully-serviced hotel accommodation where you can indulge in soft fluffy robes and room service.
Why not have a couple’s massage at one of Nelson’s many day spas and don’t forget to spend a day or two quenching your thirst at one of the wineries or breweries across the region. You could also jump aboard a double kayak to explore the beautiful Nelson Bays, and pack a picnic for lunch. Lovely!
R&R
Sometimes we want to head away simply to relax and recharge. And that’s okay! So if you’re looking to keep the itinerary to a minimum, you should check yourself into a Nelson retreat.
From yoga retreats, like you’ll find at Anahata, to wellness weekends, healing and pampering at Split Apple Retreat, you’re sure to find something to suit your needs, all in beautiful surroundings.
Girl’s Weekend
Did someone say girl’s weekend? If so, Nelson is definitely the place to go. Renting a holiday home is always ideal for a group, providing a place to base yourself before heading off for some fun activities.
How about some retail therapy, visiting a day spa for a couple of treatments, and then the essential winery tour (just lock in a sober driver, have a taxi company on speed dial, or choose a tour that provides transport).
Family Fun
When you’re hiring a rental car from Nelson Airport, make sure you choose one that has room for the whole family. Here at NZ Rent A Car we have SUVs, station wagons, mini buses and 8 seater minivans – all perfect for when you need to move a crowd, and their suitcases, from A to B.
Kids love the outdoors and whether it’s splashing in the ocean, building sand castles, exploring native bush or jumping up and down in muddy puddles, you’re sure to find something to entertain the kids (and yourself) for pretty much every waking hour.
Food & Wine
Enjoying good food and wine is a noble pursuit (let’s even call it a hobby) and your taste buds are in for a treat next time you’re in Nelson for a getaway.
From artisan cafes, to boutique farmers markets, breweries and wineries – so many incredible wineries – it’s a feast for all the senses here. A lot of the focus is on local (and seasonal) produce too, which means you’ll be truly immersing yourself in all the spoils of the region if you let your appetite do the walking and the talking.
Action-Packed
If you’re after a week or weekend of action and adventure, this is your sign to book flights to Nelson.
From epic biking trails to the world’s longest flying fox, quad biking and sailing, you’ll have trouble catching your breath in between all the activities at the top of the South Island – and there’s certainly no judging if this is how you like to spend your time.
The NZ Rent A Car Nelson depot is located right outside the main terminal at Nelson Airport, perfect for those arriving by air, being centrally located provides a good starting point for travel throughout the Nelson-Tasman region and beyond.
Going on holiday with your budget rental car? Here’s your ‘must-pack’ list for your roadie.
