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Nelson - Tasman Recreation
Nelson Tasman is home to three of New Zealand's most spectacular National Parks.
General recreation information
The region's natural playgrounds are the focus of the region’s most popular outdoor activities which include mountain biking, fly fishing, diving and sailing, swimming and hiking.
Nelson is well known for having a high concentration of excellent artists and craftspeople.
Sports and recreation
The Nelson City and Tasman District councils provide a range of recreation facilities including sportsgrounds, parks and gardens. Your local community center may also run many different activities and groups for the community to join. Check out their website for more details.
Venues and Grounds | Nelson City Council
Sport and recreation centres | Tasman District Council
Clubs and groups
New Zealanders enjoy a wide range of sporting activities. Joining a club or team is a great way to meet people.
You can find local clubs and teams listed on the Citizen's Advice Bureau and Found Directory websites.
Sports in Nelson-Tasman | Citizen's Advice Bureau
Sports and Exercise | Found Directory
Outdoors
Tracks and walks
There are many opportunities to stretch your legs, clear your lungs and get close to nature on the walkways and tracks you’ll find wherever you go in the Nelson Tasman Region.
The region is even home to two of New Zealand's 10 Great Walks.
You can find hiking and tramping trails in the region on the Department of Conservation website.
You can find walkways near you on you local council's website.
Walking and tramping in Nelson/Tasman | Department of Conservation
Walks and walkways | Nelson City Council
Walking and cycling | Tasman District Council
Cycling
The Nelson Tasman region offers some of the best biking in New Zealand.
Whether you're more interested in exploring the scenic beaches, riding through rugged forest tracks or visiting the local wineries and breweries, there is a cycle track for everyone.
You can find information about cycling trails near you on your local council's website.
Cycling & Mountain Biking | Nelson Tasman NZ
Parks and reserves
Nelson Tasman offers plenty of opportunities for children to play in safe open spaces, playgrounds and skate parks.
You can find local parks on your local council's website.
Parks and reserves | Nelson City Council
Parks and reserves | Tasman District Council
Animals in public parks
There are some restrictions on areas where you can walk dogs in the Nelson Tasman Region. Up to date information is posted on your local council's website.
Dog owner responsibilities | Nelson City Council
Exercising your dog | Tasman District Council
Hunting and fishing
Both fishing and hunting are a big part of life for many in the Nelson Tasman region.
There are rules you must follow when hunting or fishing in New Zealand, and there can be serious penalties for breaching them.
The rules and tips for hunting on public conservation land are on the Department of Conservation website.
Information about fresh water fishing, game bird hunting, and how to buy a licence is on the Fish and Game NZ website.
Rules for fishing and gathering shellfish in the sea is on the Ministry of Primary Industries website.
Hunting in Nelson/Tasman | Department of Conservation
Licences | Fish and Game Nelson/Marlborough
Challenger area fishing rules | Ministry for Primary Industries
Art and culture
Museums and galleries
You can find many of the region's museums and art galleries on the Nelson Tasman NZ website.
Arts & Culture Activities | Nelson Tasman NZ
Shopping
The Nelson-Tasman Region is home to a wide range of shopping opportunities including gorgeous boutiques and high street shopping.
Shopping & Markets | Nelson Tasman NZ
Markets
The region has three weekly markets selling fresh produce, beautiful art and homeware, artisan food, and more.