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With easy access from the North Island via ferry from Wellington, and incredible coastal views travelling from other areas of the South Island, Nelson and Marlborough make for an ideal campervan road trip destination. Marlborough and Nelson beaches are a major feature of these neighbouring regions, and boast an epic coastline including over 3,000km in the Marlborough Sounds alone.
Marlborough’s capital Blenheim, is in the heart of the Wairau Valley. Visiting the epicentre of the New Zealand wine industry is one of the best things to do in Marlborough, with cellar doors and restaurants generously sprinkled throughout a picturesque landscape.
Nelson is the region’s biggest metropolis, with top Nelson attractions including delving into the arts scene and enjoying the glorious rural and seaside surroundings. Neighbouring Motueka town is a pleasant gateway to Abel Tasman National Park, as well as Kahurangi and charming Golden Bay over Takaka Hill. At the southern boundary of Marlborough is salty Kaikoura, world famous for whales and other wildlife.
Top reasons to visit the region include mountains and crystal lakes, oceans and tumbling rivers, rolling hills and sandy beaches. Nelson and Marlborough are an adventure playground for those who love to get amongst the great outdoors.
Nelson & Marlborough Must Do's
Nelson & Marlborough Campervan Road Trips
Nelson & Marlborough Travel Tips & Inspiration
Britz Campervan Branches
Auckland
If you're after a long drive, starting your trip in Auckland will allow you to take in all the scenery of the North Island before setting sail across to the South Island to continue your adventure.
Queenstown
New Zealand's renowned adventure playground, Queenstown is an exhilarating, year-round alpine resort. With so many activities and natural delights to enjoy, no South Island campervan trip is complete without a trip to this hot spot.
Christchurch
The drive from Britz Christchurch to Nelson offers a couple of different paths, whether you choose to stick to the coast to pass by Kaikoura and Blenheim over 6 hours, or head through the centre over 5 hours through Lewis Pass. Both give a different look at the South Island!
Helpful Tips For Visiting Nelson & Marlborough
Climate and seasons in Nelson
Nelson is known for its great weather, and it is a top competitor for record numbers of sunny days in New Zealand most years.
The year-round temperate weather affords locals and visitors plenty of time for outdoor activities, and ensures a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy all the region has to offer.
Nelson does experience four seasons, however even the cooler months are still mild in comparison to cities further south.
Nearby attractions and day trips from Nelson
Farewell spit
Farewell spit lies about 2 hours from Nelson and is a nature reserve and bird sanctuary. The area is heavily protected, so access is by tour for most of the reserve. You can also see historic lighthouses and beautiful wetland areas.
Takaka
Takaka is a small town known for its alternative style, and is filled with cafes and art shops. Near Kahurangi National Park, it’s a great pit stop for gathering refreshments. A top Takaka attraction to include is Te Waikoropupū Springs, the largest freshwater spring in NZ.
Rabbit Island
Rabbit Island is popular for its swimming beach, and there is a bridge that connects it to the mainland. The Island has pine plantations, and there are even BBQ’s to use for cooking up a family lunch.
What to pack
With such great weather no matter the time of year you visit, it’s an absolute must to pack for outdoor activities and adventuring in Nelson.
- Outdoor gear... Things like bikes, swimming gear and sturdy footwear for walking are a must for Nelson. If you have binoculars, bring them along for spotting wildlife!
- Campervan add-ons... If you are bringing a bike, the Auckland, Christchurch or Queenstown branches offer bike rack hire which you can add on to your campervan hire!
- Sun protection... For all the sunny days you will be experiencing in Nelson, remember to bring sunscreen, hats and sunglasses
Where to stay in Nelson & Marlborough with a campervan
Nelson
Marlborough