The region is known for its three National Parks (Abel Tasman, Kahurangi and Nelson Lakes). The Abel Tasman is the most visited park in New Zealand.
Inland from Nelson
Explore the hinterland of Moutere Hills, the historic village of Upper Moutere and the Motueka Valley Highway make a great country drive with plenty of opportunities to stop at artists home/ studios , wineries, the local pub, roadside fruit stalls and gourmet food producers, scattered throughout the pristine landscape.
Motueka and Riwaka
Motueka is a town of 8,000 with a colourful Sunday outdoor market, two cinemas and cafes. As the closest town to the Abel Tasman National Park.
Tapawera
Tapawera is a small rural town with a population of 600, located in the beautiful Motueka Valley. The surrounding Motueka and Whangapeka Rivers provide some of the best trout fishing in the South Island. Stonefly Lodge is located between Motueka and Tapawera.
