Everyone knows you don't have to venture very far in New Zealand before stumbling across another beautiful part of its natural landscape. My weekend trip to Nelson last week was the breath of fresh air I so badly needed without even knowing it.
My visit coincided with the New Zealand Pipe Band Championships held in Nelson's Trafalgar Park and thus arriving on Saturday morning I was greeted with the sound of bagpipes and was spectator to a mass march down the main road. A rather grand and unexpected beginning to the weekend.
I had been awake since the early hours of the morning to catch my Jetstar flight so I naturally indulged in locally roasted coffee and a cooked breakfast at River Kitchen. Cafe culture appeared strong in Nelson which, as any New Zealander, I thoroughly appreciated. I would recommend taking to the city on foot to explore the cafes, art galleries and boutique stores.
I was lucky enough to spend a day sight seeing and exploring the Abel Tasman on a 10 tonne catamaran on Sunday. The adventure began when I was called in the early hours of the morning with a weather warning; the forecast predicted thunderstorms and heavy rain. However the only change to my plans was a raincoat and an extra pair of socks packed into my bag. I was off!
For New Zealanders who haven't seen the Abel Tasman with their own eyes I implore you to add it to your bucket list. The landmarks, wildlife, history and beauty made it a place I still find myself daydreaming about. With six hours of luxury to fill on the Abel Tasman Charter trip I sipped coffee in the cabin, kayaked at Bark Bay, jumped off the top of the boat into the waters of Te Pukatea and ate a delicious lunch.