The entire South Island of New Zealand can feel like one beautiful fairy tale. Known for its outdoor adventures and beautiful landscape, it’s sure to inspire you no matter what you do.
During your trip on the South Island, there are so many options for tourists that you’ll definitely need to plan the trip well in advance.
For example, you can enjoy the beautiful sand beaches in Abel Tasman National Park or go swimming with the dolphins at Kaikoura. More of an indoor person? Enjoy wonderful dining at one of the many restaurants or overnight cruises available.
This land is definitely full of character and will charm you from the beginning of your trip all the way to the end.
Nelson > Havelock > Spring Creek > Blenheim
City of Nelson
The city of Nelson is located right on top of South Island. It’s one of these sunniest spots in the entire area. Here you can enjoy crafts, fine dining, and beautiful creative culture.
Things To Do
Nelson is also full of beautiful white sand beaches and walking trails for you to burn off that evening meal. If you prefer to eat organic food, a couple of local produce stores and multiple stands are available in the area, particularly on Saturdays.
Use this time to interact with locals as well as visit the neighboring hipster cafes, which are scattered throughout the entire city. Art galleries, including The Suter and Wall to Wall Art Harbor, are worth stopping by as well.
If you’re looking for grub, be sure to check out Harry’s Hawker House for a dimly-lit fine dining experience with the best Asian Cuisine. Or you can check out Hopgood’s & Co or more of a local pub-gastro vibe—though the prices are a bit hefty.
Where To Stay
Bachcare have a range of places to stay in Nelson. Take a look at our Nelson accommodation options.
Pitstop: Rai Valley
Rai Valley is a super small settlement located in Marlborough. It’s a great place to make a pit stop on your way to Blenheim. Though it isn’t necessarily a tourist attraction and accommodations may be limiting, it’s perfect for taking a small break and getting a quick snack while on your trip.
2. Havelock
Havelock is a very small town located right in Marlborough and lies at the base of the Kaituna and Pelorus rivers. It serves as the main center for the muscle industry in New Zealand and has quite a few options for scenery, outdoor trails, and dining.
Things To Do
In Havelock, you can enjoy fun and quiet fishing at Pelorus Sound, as well as several fine dining restaurants and local cafes in the area. You can also take a cruise on the Greenshell for a nice evening getaway. The crews operate daily, so be sure to check the website for seasonal information. Havelock is also near a number of different hiking trails where you can meet locals, get in touch with nature. And don’t forget about the Havelock Museum or a bit of local history.
Where To Stay
Bachcare have a range of places to stay in Havelock. Take a look at our Havelock accommodation options.
3. Spring Creek
Spring Creek is about 7 minutes from Blenheim, and if you have time, it’s well worth a quick stop at this small settlement on the banks of the Wairau River. It’s a peaceful spot for a spot of fishing or a leg stretch, and it sits right on the doorstep of the Marlborough wine region.
This is the heart of Marlborough wine country, world-famous for its crisp Sauvignon Blanc and increasingly its Pinot Noir. There are dozens of cellar doors within easy reach, particularly around nearby Renwick, where you can taste your way through the vines at your own pace.
When you need a break from the wineries, the Makana Boutique Chocolate Factory is a hop, skip and a jump away on Rapaura Road, where you can watch the chocolatiers at work and sample a few treats (the macadamia butter toffee crunch is a local favourite). History and aviation buffs should also make time for the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre in Blenheim, home to a remarkable collection of rare World War I and II aircraft and memorabilia. And of course, the Makana factory and countless cellar doors are all stops along the wider Marlborough Wine Trail.
Where To Stay
Stay at Marlborough Magic, a spacious holiday home set on a working vineyard just 13 minutes from central Blenheim, sleeping larger groups with ease across six bedrooms. Take a look at Marlborough Magic and the rest of our Blenheim accommodation options.
4. Blenheim
The town of Blenheim is located in the northeastern part of South Island. It has a fairly small population of fewer than 30,000 people, yet it is known for its beautiful Marlborough wine region and amazing landscape.
What To Do
If you’re visiting Blenheim (and have already toured the Malborough Winery) then you should definitely take a trip to the Opawa River. There you can hop aboard the River Queen Paddle-Steamer for a wonderful afternoon while you enjoy a tasty two-course meal.
This fine-dining cruise includes wine tasting packages as well as local produce. And then there’s the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, which is perfect for exploring interesting memorabilia and rare aircraft history about Omaka.
You can also stop by the Millennium art gallery for exciting curated exhibitions of both regional and national artists. And while you’re in the area, be sure to check out local craft and art designers.
Where To Stay
Bachcare have a range of places to stay in Blenheim. Take a look at our Blenheim accommodation options.
You’re going to enjoy your trip to New Zealand’s South Island. The great combination of outdoor and indoor activities will guarantee that you have a wonderful time and the area. So be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and be ready to enjoy all of the mussels and wine that you can!
Enjoy Your Nelson to Blenheim Roadtrip
Now that you have this road trip all planned out, book your trip to New Zealand’s South Island. Visit bachcare.co.nz to find the perfect holiday home for you.
