Nelson, on New Zealand’s South Island, is a prime spot to explore diverse national parks thanks to its strategic location amid stunning coastlines, lush forests, and rugged mountains. What makes Nelson stand out is its access to some of the most varied and immersive park experiences — from hiking with guided insights to sailing along pristine waters, or even flying over to remote alpine lakes. For those who love a mix of land, sea, and sky, Nelson offers options that suit every style, whether you’re after a leisurely cruise or a full-day adventure. One thing we particularly appreciate is the Full-Day Abel Tasman National Park Hiking Tour with Cruise — it combines the best of both worlds: scenic water taxi rides and forest hikes, guided by experts who can help you interpret the landscape.
If you’re pressed for time or prefer relaxing with a view, the Full-Day Sailing Adventure in the Abel Tasman National Park delivers a laid-back way to see some of the park’s top sights, like Split Apple Rock and Anchorage Beach, without breaking a sweat. For the ultimate luxury, a helicopter trip to Kahurangi National Park offers breath-taking mountain vistas and a secluded alpine lake — perfect for a romantic escape or a special treat. Whether you’re hiking, sailing, or flying, Nelson’s national park tours make it easy to soak in this spectacular region’s natural beauty.
1. Full-Day Abel Tasman National Park Hiking Tour with Cruise
At number one, this full-day tour combines guided water taxi rides with scenic hikes through Abel Tasman National Park. Starting from Nelson, you’ll travel to Kaiteriteri, hop aboard a water taxi, and cruise along the coast toward the heart of the park — a spectacular way to see the coastline without the effort of paddling or driving. The guided hike takes you through dense forests, with stops at notable spots like Torrent Beach, where you can enjoy a relaxed lunch. The tour’s small-group format guarantees personalized attention, and included transport and lunch make it a good value at $322.60 per person.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who share insights about local wildlife, flora, and history. Reviewers highlight the stunning scenery, from Medlands Beach to Frenchman Bay, as well as the comfortable, personalized experience. The tour avoids the hassle and uncertainty of self-guided hikes, which makes it ideal for those new to the area or anyone wanting a stress-free day in nature.
Bottom line: This tour offers an excellent mix of adventure and comfort, perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience of Abel Tasman with scenic water access and forest trails.
2. Full-Day Sailing Adventure in the Abel Tasman National Park
Number two on our list is the Full-Day Sailing Adventure that offers a relaxed way to explore Nelson’s coast. Sailing from Kaiterteri, you’ll glide past famous sights like the Split Apple Rock, while keeping an eye out for NZ fur seals and native birds at Adele Island. The sail is a perfect way to unwind, with a crew that makes the experience friendly and engaging.
The tour includes a one-hour stop at Anchorage Beach, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch, swim, or take a short forest walk. The boat’s lay-back vibe, combined with scenic stops, makes this a great choice for travelers who prefer sitting back rather than hiking. The reviews show high satisfaction, with many mentioning the friendly crew and memorable wildlife sightings. The all-in price of $164.65 per person makes it an accessible way to see a lot of Abel Tasman in one day.
This trip is ideal for families or anyone wanting a leisurely, scenic day without much physical exertion. Keep in mind, sailing conditions can vary, but the relaxed pace and stunning scenery balance that out.
Bottom line: For a calm, scenic day with wildlife, beaches, and iconic rock formations, this sailing trip is an excellent, budget-friendly option.
3. Private Boat Charter in Abel Tasman National Park
Number three is the Private boat charter, perfect for travelers seeking a personalized, flexible experience. Prices start at $1,955.57 for groups up to eight, making it more of an investment but offering unmatched flexibility. The tour lasts about six hours, during which your skipper can tailor the day to your interests, whether that’s hiking, kayaking, swimming, or just relaxing on the boat.
What sets this apart is the ability to customize your trip, with options to explore any part of the park’s coastline, visit Tonga Island Marine Reserve, or even snorkel in clear waters. Reviews are glowing, often praising the guide’s knowledge and personable manner, as well as the opportunity to see fur seals and explore the coast at your own pace.
One recent reviewer mentioned, “Fabulous trip with the best guide and skipper, Tim!!” and highlighted how the small-group format allowed for a very bespoke experience. The flexibility makes this ideal for families, small groups, or seasoned adventurers who want maximum control over their day.
Bottom line: If you want a private, customizable day with the option to include kayaking and snorkeling, this boat charter offers a truly tailored experience.
4. Cruise, Walk, and Sail in Abel Tasman National Park
Number four is a half-day combo tour that blends sailing, a scenic walk, and wildlife spotting. Starting from Kaiteriteri, you’ll cruise past Split Apple Rock and the Fisherman and Adele Islands, then land at Anchorage Bay to explore the Pitt Head Loop. After a walk of about 1-1.5 hours, you’ll reboard a catamaran for more sailing along the coast.
This tour is a great choice for those who want a taste of everything — sea, land, and wildlife — without committing an entire day. The tour includes a short, easy walk, and the scenery along the water is stunning. Reviewers point out the knowledgeable crew and the variety of landscapes seen—from coves and beaches to small islands. At $125.28 per person, it offers a budget-friendly way to experience Abel Tasman.
It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a moderate pace and want to see key sights like Split Apple Rock and fur seals, all in one morning or afternoon. However, it might be less suitable if you’re looking for a deep hike or full-day experience.
Bottom line: This combo tour offers a balanced taste of sailing, walking, and wildlife, perfect for time-constrained travelers or those new to the park.
5. Heli-Picnic Alpine Lake Kahurangi National Park
Number five is the awe-inspiring heli-picnic tour to Kahurangi National Park. For about 3 hours, you’ll fly over Nelson’s stunning landscapes, then land beside a remote alpine lake accessible only by helicopter. The experience includes a walk to a nearby waterfall and time to relax by the lake with a picnic. The flight offers unmatched views of mountains, beaches, and the wilderness.
The tour is priced at $2,916.75 per group (up to six), making it a splurge, but one that’s worth every penny if you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime experience with spectacular scenery. The reviews praise the breathtaking mountain panoramas and the short walk to the waterfall. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a high-end adventure, with a focus on scenery and exclusivity.
This trip is best suited for those celebrating a special occasion or anyone who’s comfortable with helicopter travel and wants a memorable, scenic adventure that’s more about the view than physical activity.
Bottom line: For a once-in-a-lifetime view of mountain landscapes and serene lakes, this helicopter tour is unmatched — though it comes at a premium.
6. Te Tau Ihu West Coast Wilderness
Number six is the longer, more comprehensive experience combining mountain flight, landing, and visits to key West Coast sites. For about 5 hours, you’ll fly over Kahurangi National Park, Abel Tasman, and Farewell Spit, with landings at mountain peaks and beaches. This tour covers a huge expanse of wilderness, including Wharariki Beach’s famous rock formations.
The $4,988.70 price tag makes it a premium choice, but the detailed itinerary takes you from mountain tops to sand dunes, offering a broad overview of the region’s geology and wildlife. Reviewers note the breathtaking views and the diversity of scenery, from rugged coastlines to lush forests. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive aerial overview of Nelson’s wildest landscapes with a touch of adventure.
It’s suited for those with a good budget and a desire to see as much as possible from above. The multiple stops and the extensive flight make it a perfect choice for serious nature lovers or seasoned travelers eager for a full regional perspective.
Bottom line: If you’re after a grand, panoramic experience that covers a wide area of Nelson’s wilderness, this tour is the ultimate choice.
How to Choose the Right Nelson National Park Tour
Choosing among these great options depends on your interests, fitness level, and budget. Are you after a relaxed day on the water? The sailing Full-Day Sailing Adventure offers scenic views with minimal effort. Want a guided hike with insider stories? The Full-Day Abel Tasman Hiking Tour provides a detailed, guided experience. Craving something luxurious and breathtaking? The helicopter tour to Kahurangi is perfect for memorable mountain vistas and solitude.
Consider your budget, preferred activity level, and how much time you want to spend. For active travelers, the guided hikes or private boat charters might be best. For those seeking relaxation, sailing or scenic flights fit the bill. Planning ahead is key—especially for helicopter trips—so book early.
Final Thoughts
Nelson offers a fantastic variety of national park tours that showcase its stunning landscapes from different angles. For a well-rounded experience, the guided Full-Day Abel Tasman hike and cruise remains a top pick, blending adventure and comfort. If a leisurely day on the water appeals more, the sailing tour is hard to beat.
For those seeking unique, once-in-a-lifetime moments, the helicopter and West Coast wilderness tours provide breathtaking vistas that will stay with you long after your trip. Whichever you choose, early booking is advisable, especially in peak season, to ensure availability for these highly-rated experiences. No matter your style, Nelson’s parks await, ready to reward your curiosity with stunning sights and memorable moments.