Tasman District is heaven

Abel Tasman National Park is the home of kayaking and canoeing. Secluded coves, lagoons and one of the park's most photographed features - Split Apple Rock - are all reachable by paddle and oar.

The wider Tasman District features three national parks, a warm climate and more golden beaches than you can shake your togs at.

Not far from Nelson, Richmond boasts a collection of vineyards, most within a 20km radius. If you’re interested in craft, there are potters, glass blowers, wood turners, metalsmiths and tailors who make garments from all sorts of fleeces.

Māpua is an essential town to visit for any food lover. At the wharf, you’ll find a collection of cafés with stunning views, a brewery, wine bar, great fish and chips and there is a ferry that connects up Tasman’s Great Taste Trail. It’s also home to Shed 4 that includes even more eateries, shops and a waterfront amphitheatre where there are often concerts.

Motueka has a lively café culture and two national parks nearby: the Abel Tasman and the Kahurangi national parks. Live like the locals by frequenting the Sunday market and absorb the town’s heritage by visiting the waka (canoe) that used to carve up the waters of the Motueka River. Pop into Motueka District Museum to admire the township’s beloved Lassie, a gleaming 1929 Cadillac. When it’s time to cool off, punch Riuwaka Resurgence into Google maps; river water tumbles from a marble cave into a crystalline pool, perfect for swimming.

Looking for a place to stay? Find a huge range of accommodation options, including discounts for AA Members, at travel.aa.co.nz