Nelson Region

Two Spots Worth Making the Effort For

Bird watching in Nelson is really anchored around two places. Brook Waimarama Sanctuary is the South Island's largest fenced wildlife sanctuary and it's only ten minutes from Nelson city. Kiwi have been added recently, and the place keeps improving year on year. It's a proper native wildlife experience without having to drive far.

The Abel Tasman Side of Things

Out in the national park, Adele Island is now a designated bird sanctuary and has a short track starting from a nice beach on its eastern side. You'll often spot seals on the northern side too. The island sits in the Astrolabe area which is sheltered and accessible by kayak, and the beaches around Fishermans Island are worth the detour if conditions allow.

Further west in Golden Bay, the Farewell Spit tour is the standout. Gannets are the drawcard and the only way out there is on the bus. The Gannet Colony add-on costs a bit more but it's worth it. Book early in peak season as space is genuinely limited.