Kayaking at Abel Tasman National Park near Nelson. Photo / Supplied
Kayaking at Abel Tasman National Park near Nelson. Photo / Supplied
Jetstar announced yesterday that they will be flying to Napier, New Plymouth, Nelson and Palmerston North. Here at Herald Travel, we love the regions, so here are three great experiences in each of those destinations.
Palmerston North
Rugby Museum
Perhaps Palmy's best tourist attraction, the New Zealand Rugby museum contains a huge collection of rugby paraphernalia - including a 1905 All Blacks jersey, the whistle used to start the first game of every Rugby World Cup and of course, The Boot, as worn by the legendary Don Clarke.
The New Zealand Rugby Museum in Palmerston North. Photo / Mark Mitchell
Take a relaxed walk along the river - there's an adventure playground, aviary, bike trails, a scenic railway and walkways to enjoy. Also, the Dugald MacKenzie Rose Garden was voted as one of the world's top five loveliest gardens.
Tui Brewery Tours
There's nothing to do in Palmerston North ... Yeah right! The Tui brewery is located 30 minutes east of Palmerston North in Mangatainoka. Check out the brewery and museum and down a few beers - but remember to book in advance.
Napier
Architecture
Check out the beautifully preserved 1930s art deco buildings of the area. Following the 1931 earthquake, the town was rebuilt in the distinctive architectural style of the era.
Napier is well known for its distinctive art deco buildings. Photo / Duncan Brown
National Aquarium of New Zealand
The National Aquarium is housed on the Napier waterfront and boasts a diverse range of aquatic animals and wildlife. There are penguins, kiwis, crocodiles and much more.
Mohaka Rafting
Mohaka Rafting offers river day trips and multiday expeditions in the Hawkes Bay region. Experience stunning canyons, amazing scenery and natural thermal hot springs along the way.
Nelson
Arts and Crafts
Nelson is known for its thriving arts and crafts scene. Check out the Saturday markets or visit the World of WearableArt and Classic Cars museum for a bit of everything.
There's something for everyone at the Nelson Market, held every Saturday 8am-1pm. Photo / Supplied
Abel Tasman National Park
This national park is located between Golden Bay and Tasman Bay and is renowned for its beautiful beaches, granite cliffs and walking tracks. The Abel Tasman Coast track is one of the Department of Conservation's nine Great Walks.
Nelson Lakes National Park
The Nelson region boasts some beautiful national parks and surrounded by mountain ranges, this is no exception. The native bush is heavily protected and gives an idea of what New Zealand was like 500 years ago.
This isn't your average regional art gallery - Govett-Brewster is the country's first and only museum of contemporary art. It hosts changing exhibitions and includes a permanent Len Lye gallery, a must see for lovers of fine art.
The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery in New Plymouth. Photo / Rob Tucker
Festival of Lights
Since 1993, the Festival of Lights has been a well-loved community event in New Plymouth. Its centrepiece is a spectacular light display projected over Pukekura Park and the festival takes place in mid-December.
New Plymouth Coastal Walkway
This award-winning walkway stretches for ten kilometres, forming a promenade that runs along almost the entire length of the city. It's great for walking, running, cycling and is dotted with great public sculptures like the iconic Wind Wand.
