New Zealand has a very long list of 'must do's'. I mean what with the stunning landscapes, fascinating Maori culture, welcoming vibe and wealth of things to do, the more you think about things the longer the list gets. But what makes NZ truly special are the unexpected experiences and personal highlights that all travellers seem to come away with. New Zealand is many things to many people.
For me, Sunny Nelson is one place that when I hear mentioned always brings out fuzzy warm feelings. The moment I arrived I just felt completely at home in this well-sized town at the top of South Island. Nelson is the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park and hence the main reason visitors spend time here. This was indeed why I visited, but I'm so glad that I allowed time in town itself too. It's not that I filled my days with every activity going (of which there are many to choose from), it's just that I really enjoyed just soaking up the atmosphere.
In some ways its that good old social hub, the local pub that holds my affections the most. Several good evenings were spent drinking finest DB in the Victorian Rose and the odd afternoon enjoying a bottom-less cup of coffee with cookie accompanyment. But mostly it was just a great place to relax and kick back. Walking along the river, strolling through the gardens and around Trafalgar Square, attempting a coastal walk then hitching a lift back into town resulting in an impromtu guided tour by very friendly locals. Simple things, but great. I'm not the only one to find Nelson so appealing. Two of my friends travelling at completely different times also found a certain buzz and charm to this place. It really does get my vote.
This country is not just about seeing all best bits...for starters you'd need a lifetime... it's about savouring the moment and then loving the memories.
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