A foodie's paradise
Whether you are crammed in the car with the camping gear driving over Lewis Pass or hopping on a quick flight, the path travelled between Nelson Tasman and Canterbury is well used.
Nelson Tasman is not new to Cantabrians. Many will have fond memories of summer in Kaiteriteri, exploring Abel Tasman National Park, and enjoying Golden Bay or the city. While naturally, you know the region for its stunning beaches and landscapes, it is what you can eat and drink while in the region that truly sets it apart as a foodie’s paradise.
So, next time you are thinking of travelling north, here is some inspiration to ensure you make the most of your time there and enjoy the best of what there is to offer.
Whether you are starting your day off in the city or wanting to get an early start exploring the region, your options are almost endless for breakfast. You can enjoy a riverside view at the aptly named River Kitchen, overlook the Haven at Boatshed, or be ready to hit the outdoors at Toad Hall in Motueka.
To get the most out of your time here, it’s obvious that you’ll need to be well caffeinated. For that you cannot go past Sublime Coffee, available at multiple cafés and restaurants, with a top pick being Ruby’s Espresso in the idyllic marina.
If you want to spend a day exploring food, there are plenty of ways to get a helping hand. Hop On Hop Off Wine Tours, Wine Art and Wilderness, and Wine Nelson can all help build an itinerary which will ensure you don’t miss a thing. Just want to add a couple of stops to your itinerary? Pic’s Peanut Butter World, Eddyline Brewery & Taproom, Moutere Artisans, and the multiple cellar doors will ensure you can fill a day (and appetite). The Great Taste Trail will ensure you don’t miss anything if you choose to cycle.
Bookending your day in Nelson Tasman will require you try out one of a number of local restaurants. Eight Plates at the foot of the Cathedral Steps, Awaroa Lodge in the Abel Tasman, Harvest Kitchen in Seifried’s Vineyard, or Mussel Inn in Golden Bay all ensure you enjoy a delicious meal while enjoying stunning locations. And make sure you pair your meal with a local beverage such as Abel Cider, Kono, Hop Federation, Neudorf Vineyards, or Flaxmore.
Feeling overwhelmed? Completely understandable. Sometimes, the folks up there forget how much they have on offer. Luckily, you can always take a bit of Nelson Tasman home with you. Pic’s Peanut Butter, Hogarth Chocolate, Chia Sisters, Kombucha Bros, Pete’s Natural, Rabbit Island Coffee, QB’s, or Appleby Farms Ice Cream have fantastic gift options or something special to enjoy at home and remember your time here (all while planning your next trip).
If you need more inspiration or want to dive deeper into planning your trip, nelsontasman.nz has all the information you need. They’re ready to welcome you back.