Walks

There are so many walks of all lengths in the Nelson area, here are just a few. For more details and options please visit the Nelson City Council website or come and see us in Reception.

Centre of New Zealand  (30-60 mins)

Uphill but fantastic panoramic views of the city, port and mountains and Tasman bay, and geographically, the centre of New Zealand! Starts in a few different places but the Botanical Reserve (site of the first rugby game in New Zealand) is as good as any.

The Grampians  (45-70 mins)

All up-hill but worth it for the sweeping panoramic views. Starts at the top of Brougham and Collingwood Streets in the city.

Airport Perimeter Walk  (1.5 hrs)

Flat with stunning coastline views; no dogs or bikes allowed. Starts on the left of the entrance to Nelson Airport.

Monaco Peninsula  (45-60 mins)

Check the tides time’s before setting off as part of the trail is along the foreshore and not passable at high tide. Start from at The Honest Lawyer pub to do a circuit.

Barnicoat Range (3 hrs)

Good views over the Ngawhatu Valley and out to Monaco. Starting up the Marsden Valley after the cemetery, it is well signposted.

Days Track  (1.5-3 hrs)

Stunning views of the bay – and of the houses! Start at the Tahuna Beach carpark, follow the road towards town about 200 metres and look for the Days Track sign that leads you up into the Tahunanui hills – start climbing!

Maitai Caves  (4 hrs)

No dogs allowed and bring a torch for the caves!  It is mostly a flat track except for the last 10 minute climb to the caves. Starts by the Maitai Dam.

Paddy’s Knob  (30-45 mins)

With panoramic views from the hills in the south out to Separation Point in Tasman Bay. Around 1856 a 2-year-old toddler named Paddy got separated from his mother; after two days of searching he was found curled up and fast asleep on what was then a bush covered hill, hence becoming known as Paddy’s Knob.