The Top 6 National Park Tours In Nelson New Zealand

Nelson, on New Zealand’s South Island, is a gateway to some of the most spectacular natural scenery the country has to offer. It’s a place where rugged coastlines, lush forests, and sparkling lakes come together in perfect harmony. What makes Nelson particularly appealing for National Park Tours is its proximity to several stunning parks, including Abel Tasman and Nelson Lakes. Whether you’re after a relaxing boat ride, an adrenaline-pumping hike, or an aerial view from a helicopter, Nelson’s diverse options won’t disappoint. For example, the Abel Tasman Day Sailing Adventure is a favorite for its combination of scenic sailing and beachside lunch, offering a taste of coastland paradise.

While we love a good boat trip, Nelson also offers helicopter flights over Abel Tasman for a perspective that’s truly breathtaking, and guided walks in Nelson Lakes for those who want to enjoy native bush and mountain scenery. No matter your style, these tours showcase the best of what this region has to offer, balancing adventure, relaxation, and cultural insights.

Quick Overview

In this guide, we highlight the best National Park Tours in Nelson, including sailing adventures, helicopter flights, full-day hikes, and multi-activity trips. Each offers a unique way to experience New Zealand’s stunning landscapes. Whether you prefer to explore by boat, foot, or air, there’s something that will suit your style and schedule. Now, let’s dive into the details.

1. Abel Tasman National Park: Day Sailing Adventure with Lunch

At number 1, this full-day sailing trip offers a relaxed but immersive way to experience Abel Tasman’s coast. For around $158, you’ll enjoy scenic sailing through coves and past iconic landmarks like Split Apple Rock and a fur seal colony. The trip includes a delicious lunch on Anchorage Beach, where you can unwind on golden sands.

What makes this tour stand out is its balance of spectacular views and comfort. The smaller group size and friendly crew ensure personalized attention, making it a great choice for those who want a laid-back day on the water. The chance to see seal colonies and explore beaches inaccessible by land adds to its appeal. The 6-hour duration makes it manageable for most travelers, and reviews consistently rate it 4.8/5, praising its smooth sailing and tasty lunch.

This tour is ideal if you love coastal scenery and want to experience Abel Tasman without the hassle of hiking or flying. Keep in mind, it’s the perfect option if you prefer a relaxed pace but still want plenty of photo opportunities.

Bottom Line: A fantastic, well-rounded way to see Abel Tasman with minimal effort and maximum scenery.

2. Abel Tasman National Park: Helicopter Flight with Landing

For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime view, this helicopter flight offers a stunning aerial perspective of Abel Tasman. Priced at a premium, around $XXX, it’s a 2.5-hour experience that whisks you from Nelson Airport directly into the heart of this coastal paradise.

The highlight is landing at Awaroa Bay, one of New Zealand’s most stunning beaches. From there, you can walk, swim, or enjoy lunch at the lodge. The flight provides a bird’s-eye view of dense native bush, turquoise waters, and stretches of golden sand—something you simply can’t get from land-based tours. Reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5/5 rating, emphasizing the serenity and exclusivity of the experience.

What makes this tour special is its ability to combine luxury and adventure—you get to see the landscape from above and then land in a remote, pristine spot. It’s perfect for travelers who want to splurge on a unique experience or those celebrating a special occasion.

Bottom Line: An awe-inspiring way to see Abel Tasman from above, especially if you’re after exclusivity and panoramic vistas.

3. Nelson: Nelson Lakes National Park Day Trip with Lunch

At number 3, this full-day guided tour takes you into Nelson Lakes National Park, about 1.5 hours from Nelson. For roughly 8 hours, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive, a walk through beech forests, and a delicious lunch by Lake Rotoiti.

The tour stands out for its flexibility—you can choose from multiple walking options to match your fitness level, and the guide shares insights about local flora, fauna, and history. The highlight is the view from Mt. Robert, which offers a panoramic 360-degree vista of the surrounding mountains and lakes. During the day, you’ll get to breathe in fresh mountain air and experience tranquil wilderness away from crowds.

Reviews are generally positive, and the tour’s logistics are smooth. It’s well-suited for nature lovers who want a moderate hike combined with scenic sightseeing. The included lunch is a good value, and the optional walk ensures you can tailor the day to your preferences.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded introduction to Nelson Lakes, great for those who want a mix of gentle hiking and peaceful scenery.

4. Abel Tasman National Park: Waka & Walk Tour

This 10-hour tour combines Māori culture, paddling, hiking, and boat trips. Starting from Nelson, it includes canoeing (waka), a guided walk, and a boat cruise, making it a true multi-sensory experience. For just a bit more than a typical day trip, you get to visit four beaches and learn about native Māori customs.

What makes this tour stand out is its cultural component—the guide provides insights into Māori traditions, and every activity begins and ends with a blessing. The paddle through native bush, combined with the beach visits, creates a dynamic and engaging day. Guests often comment on how interactive and educational the experience is, with particular praise for the team atmosphere.

It’s a good fit for travelers who want to combine adventure with cultural learning. The lunch, snacks, and refreshments keep you energized, and the tour’s small group size means more personalized attention. Its longer duration is perfect if you want a comprehensive day in Abel Tasman.

Bottom Line: A culturally rich, active tour ideal for those wanting to explore Abel Tasman by land, sea, and Māori traditions.

5. Abel Tasman National Park: Cruise, Kayak, & Hike Tour

If you’re after a full-on multi-activity adventure, this water and land tour offers an in-depth experience of Abel Tasman. Starting with a catamaran cruise from Kaiteriteri, you’ll see Split Apple Rock and the coastline in style. The highlight is the guided sea kayaking along the Astrolabe coast, where you can spot seals and birdlife at Adele Island.

Following kayaking, you’ll enjoy a guided coastal walk through native bush to Anchorage, then return by cruise. The combination of cruise, kayak, and hike gives a well-rounded perspective of the park’s marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Reviewers call it “exceptional value,” and the guide adds local insights at every step.

This tour suits active travelers eager to experience both sea and land. The 9.5-hour itinerary demands a reasonable level of fitness, but the variety keeps things fresh. The included picnic lunch and snacks make it a full-day affair worth every penny.

Bottom Line: An immersive, energetic tour that showcases Abel Tasman’s diverse landscapes from every angle.

6. Abel Tasman National Park: Cruise and Hike Full-Day Tour

Finally, this full-day cruise and hike combines the best of Abel Tasman’s coastline and forest walks. It starts with a boat cruise along the coast, providing views of golden beaches and marine life, then transitions into a guided hike through lush native bush. The day ends with another cruise, giving you a comprehensive look at the park’s scenery.

What makes this tour appealing is its balanced pace—you’ll get to see marine wildlife from the boat, then stretch your legs on a beautiful walk. The itinerary includes learning about Māori and colonial history, making it more than just a scenic outing. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a full-day experience that combines cruise, culture, and walking.

Guests say this tour offers excellent value, with the opportunity to relax on beaches and enjoy wildlife viewing. With around 9.5 hours, it’s perfect for those with a full day to spare and a love for active exploration.

Bottom Line: An all-encompassing tour that balances scenic cruising with rewarding hikes.

How to Choose Your Perfect Nelson National Park Tour

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and what kind of experience excites you most. If you want a relaxed, scenic day, the Abel Tasman Day Sailing Adventure offers excellent value. For a spectacular aerial view, splurge on the helicopter with landing.

If you’re interested in combining adventure and culture, the Waka & Walk Tour provides Māori insights along with active pursuits. Those wanting a full-immersion experience should consider the Cruise, Kayak, & Hike Tour, which offers multiple ways to explore.

For nature lovers wanting a peaceful escape, the Nelson Lakes National Park Day Trip is a solid choice, especially if you like moderate hikes and lakeside lunches. Remember to book early, especially for the more popular tours, to ensure availability.

Final Thoughts

Nelson is a treasure trove of nature experiences. Whether your ideal day involves sailing through turquoise waters, flying over pristine beaches, or hiking through native forests, you’ll find a tour to suit. For a luxury splurge, the helicopter adventure offers unmatched views. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the sailing or full-day cruise-and-hike trips deliver spectacular scenery with less fuss.

Whatever you choose, these tours highlight the diversity and beauty of Nelson’s parks. To make the most of your trip, consider your fitness level, budget, and interests—and don’t forget to book ahead. These landscapes are too good to miss, and experiencing them firsthand will undoubtedly be a highlight of your New Zealand journey.