Nelson (Te Tau Ihu), New Zealand
 Inspiring
landscapes and all kinds of creativity
A pocket of paradise in the top northwest corner of the
South Island, Nelson has a positive, creative attitude to life - and it’s
easy to see why.
The region, which is the sunniest in New Zealand, has
for many years attracted residents who love to use their imaginations.
There are more than 350 working artists and craftspeople living in Nelson,
including traditional and contemporary Maori artists. Their work is often
inspired by the region’s exceptionally beautiful geography –
coastal, forest and valley landscapes provide places to wander and dream.
The Nelson area is known by the Maori as Te Tau Ihu o
Te Waka a Maui (the tip of the nose of the canoe of Maui). From his waka,
the demi-god Maui used his magic fish hook to catch and land the North
Island (Te Ika a Maui - the fish of Maui).
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| The
Abel Tasman National Park was created in December 1942,
exactly 300 years after the Dutch Explorer Abel Tasman
sailed into Golden Bay. The park’s Coast Track
is the most popular ‘great walk’ in New
Zealand, and takes an average of three days to complete.
Sea kayaking is another way to explore the park. |
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Photo
by Ian Trafford (www.iantraffordphotos.com) |
| Click
on the image for larger version |
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Key Features
Creativity unleashed.
Nelson's creative community provides many opportunities for travellers
to experiment with art. Workshops include glassblowing, pottery, bone
carving, sculpture, authentic Maori flax weaving and cooking.
Outdoor adventure. Pack your sense
of adventure and explore three distinctly different national parks. Try
the skywire, sea kayaking, rock climbing, whitewater
rafting, mountain biking, sailing, horse trekking or seal swimming.
Edible explorations. Indulge your passion for exceptional eating
experiences. Nelson will tempt you with alfresco cafés, fine dining
restaurants, premium vineyards, boutique breweries and locally made gourmet
foods.
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