Nelson
Nelson is located at the top end of the South Island of New Zealand. It is the second oldest settled city in New Zealand and the oldest settled city on the South Island with evidence of settlement by Maori over 700 years ago. The city is considered by many to be the centre of New Zealand and appropriately has a monument marking geographical claim.
The city is not far from the famous Marlborough wine producing region world famous for Sauvignon Blanc amongst other grape varieties. There are a number of wineries offering tastings and restaurants within a short drive from Nelson.
A number of National Parks surround the city including Abel Tasman National Park, Kahurangi National Park, Lakes Rotoiti and Rotoroa in the Nelson Lakes National Park. Hiking, camping, bushwalking and a variety of water sports are offered at each of the parks as they located close to the coast.