Nelson
in New Zealand

Nelson

Nelson is a city in the north of New Zealand’s South Island, located between the Tasman Bay and the Kahurangi National Park. It is the oldest city in the South Island, and the second oldest in the country. It was founded in 1841 by settlers from England, and has since grown to become the third most populous urban area in the South Island.

Nelson has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. It is home to many beaches and parks, as well as a number of cultural attractions, including the World of Wearable Art and Collectable Car Museum. The city is also known for its thriving arts and crafts scene, with numerous galleries and studios.

Nelson has a long and rich history, beginning with the Māori settlement of the area in the 14th century. The city was home to the first European settlers in the South Island, and was the site of several important battles during the New Zealand Wars of the 19th century. It has also been the site of several significant events in New Zealand’s history, including the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi and the establishment of the first provincial government in 1853.

Today, Nelson is a vibrant and diverse city, with a population of over 50,000. It is home to a number of educational institutions, including the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology, the Nelson Tasman Institute of Technology, and the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Health and Social Services. It is also a popular destination for tourists, with a wide range of activities, attractions, and events.

Experience Nelson with unforgettable activities by our partner GetYourGuide. The offer is also ideal as a special gift idea for family and friends who are planning to visit Nelson. Cancellations are possible up to 24h before the start of the activity (unless otherwise stated in the activity description), with a full refund of the booking price.

The climate in Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand has a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. In the winter months (June-August), temperatures range from 5-14°C, with occasional frosts and occasional snow on the hills. Spring (September-November) is mild and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 8-17°C. Summer (December-February) is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 13-25°C. Autumn (March-May) is mild and wet, with temperatures ranging from 10-18°C. In general, Nelson has a pleasant climate throughout the year, with plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures.

Cruise weather for Nelson

Our weather forecast for Nelson helps plan your stay according to the weather. For sunny days, pack light and breathable clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter weather, it's recommended to bring warm clothes, gloves, a hat, sturdy footwear, and a raincoat.

Galery: Nelson

Photos by cruise fans for cruise fans!
Share your best pictures with the community and discover authentic images from travellers who have already been there.

- There are no photos available for Nelson yet.