It’s almost time for the big family holiday of the year! Soon you’ll be packing your bags and heading out to one of the beautiful corners of New Zealand. When you have to consider the varied tastes of all the family, you need a place that can cater to all ages and offer a large amount of activities. We’re here to tell you there’s nowhere quite as perfect a destination as Nelson. At the geographical heart of New Zealand, Nelson is adored for its year-round sunshine, rich national parks and golden sand beaches making it the ideal spot for a long summer staycation. We’ll show you exactly why you should rent an SUV from NZ Rent A Car and hit the South Island highway with the kids in tow.
Best Family Activities in Nelson
A hub for indoo and outdoor activities, the sunny city boasts three national parks, extreme sports, hikes and trails, and vineyards galore all within driving distance. Here are some of the crème de la crème day trips to enjoy.
Tasman’s Great Taste Trail:
Littered with dozens of superb restaurants, bars and attractions, Tasman’s Great Taste Trail is a perfect way to stretch your legs with bike hire available or simply on foot. Pick your spots and head out for an exploratory day of adventure with multiple visual feasts for the kids.
Nelson Classic Car Museum:
Cars, cars, cars. Okay, we could be biased. However, the Nelson Classic Car Museum does display 150 iconic cars. Navigate 100 years of motoring history with a super family visit, to the museum that has something for everyone.
Golden Bay:
Enjoy one of the most glorious drives in New Zealand with the roads over Takaka Hill before arriving at Golden Bay. One of the freshest nature hot spots you’ll ever visit, Golden Bay has plenty to offer. Te Waikoropupu Springs, the largest coldwater springs in the Southern Hemisphere. Farewell Spit, for a nature experience like no other. Even head to some of the best beaches you’ll find for a day of sun, sea and lots of sand.
Nelson Lakes National Park:
For the family who can’t get enough of nature, this national park features stunning lakes amongst alpine hills and dense beech forest. Embark on a hilly hike or take a dip in Lake Rotoiti for a day amongst the greenery of Aotearoa.
Abel Tasman:
No trip to the north of our South Island is complete without a day in Abel Tasman. Drive to the northern tip and be immersed in the true beauty of the outdoors. Choosing what to do here is a total pick-em. From kayaking to spotting sealife, no one in the family will be disappointed after this day to remember.
Don’t wait to book your car. Contact us now to hire a family ride for your New Zealand travel plans.
