The top of New Zealand’s beautiful and dramatic South Island incorporates the regions of
Nelson to the west and Marlborough to the east. The Nelson area boasts some of the highest sunshine
hours in NZ and the region has three National Parks, namely Abel National Park, Nelson Lakes National
Park and the Kahurangi National Park. The region is becoming renowned for its diverse range of
arts and crafts including the internationally recognised Wearable Arts Awards (being moved to
Wellington in 2005). Add to this the wineries, boutique breweries, seafood and organic produce,
cafes and outdoor pursuits including hiking and sea kayaking, the Nelson region is a very desirable
holiday destination.
East of Nelson is Marlborough, dominated by the Sounds to the north where the maze of waterways,
bays and islands has long been a favourite with boaties. As well as this natural wonder, Marlborough
has achieved international acclaim with its large expanse of vineyards and boutique style wineries
that have produced numerous award winning wines including Sauvignon and Chardonnay.
A little further south is Kaikoura, famous for whale watching all year round, as well as its
many seal colonies and of course the local dolphins.
