Settle yourself in the peaceful base of Richmond to explore the beautiful Nelson Tasman region and its many attractions.
Just south of Nelson, the town of Richmond is a service centre for the farms, orchards and vineyards of the Waimea Plains. Hops for the beer industry are grown here, as well as pip fruit and berries (over summer, you can also make a fun day out of berry-picking), and it is home to the first commercial vineyard in the South Island, Seifried Estates(opens in new window).
There is plenty for everyone to enjoy here. In the Richmond Town Centre, you’ll find a variety of shopping outlets and eateries spread amongst Queen Street and the Richmond Mall, or if you venture a little further toward Appleby, you’ll discover art studios, a country store, a guinea pig village and a cheese shop.
The nearby Richmond Ranges are a great place for hiking and mountain biking, or if you’re looking for more of a casual afternoon walk, a two hour return stroll to Whispering Falls is a must. The Nelson Lakes, Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks are also close at hand.
A cycle ride along Tasman’s Great Taste Trail will take you past vineyards, craft breweries, cafes and art studios and promises a great day out. You’ll get to enjoy some of the regions most scenic urban and coastal areas and if you hop on the cycle ferry at Rabbit Island you can even venture further across to the little village of Māpua.
