Book This Trip
Getting Around
A rental car is essential for this itinerary. Pick up in Wellington and drop off in Nelson (one-way fee applies, typically $150–250).
Compare rental cars → →The Interislander Ferry
Book the ferry well ahead — family compartments and peak sailings sell out fast. Foot passenger or drive-on are both options.
Book travel insurance → →Budget Breakdown
Budget is indicative. Campervan hire can reduce accommodation and food costs significantly — compare campervans.
Day-by-Day Plan
Wellington City
- Te Papa Museum (3–4 hours)
- Wellington Cable Car return
- Walk back through Botanical Garden
- Waterfront dinner
- Book Te Papa night tours in advance
- The cable car runs until 10pm — go at dusk for harbour views
Zealandia + Departure
- Zealandia morning visit (book ahead)
- Midday Interislander Ferry (3h through Marlborough Sounds)
- Arrive Picton — explore the waterfront
- Book the ferry well ahead — family compartments book out fast
- Sit outside on the ferry for the Marlborough Sounds scenery
- Kids love spotting dolphins from the deck
Drive to Nelson
- Stop at Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve (swimming hole, beautiful bush)
- Nelson city arrival
- Tahunanui Beach afternoon
- Nelson Saturday Market if weekend
- Pelorus Bridge swimming hole is one of NZ's best-kept secrets — don't skip it
- Tahunanui Beach has a great playground right on the sand
Abel Tasman Day
- Water taxi from Kaiteriteri to Anchorage Bay
- Beach day — swimming, snorkelling, exploring
- Water taxi return
- Mapua Wharf dinner (30 min from Nelson)
- Book water taxi 2+ weeks ahead in peak season
- Bring snorkelling gear — the water is clear enough to see fish
- Mapua Wharf has the best food in the region — fish and chips, craft beer, gelato
Departure Day
- World of WearableArt museum (allow 2h)
- Or: relaxed morning, café in Nelson
- Fly home from Nelson Airport or continue to Christchurch via SH6 (4h 30m)
- WoW Museum is excellent and often overlooked — not just fashion
- Nelson to Christchurch via SH6 through Murchison is a beautiful drive if extending your trip
Plan Your Trip
Before you head off, these guides will help you get the most out of your 5-day itinerary:
Packing Tips for This Trip
- Windproof jacket for Wellington
- Snorkelling gear for Abel Tasman
- Sunscreen — Nelson is NZ's sunniest region
- Spade hire available at Hot Water Beach
- Reusable water bottles — tap water is excellent throughout
FAQ
Is the Interislander Ferry good for kids?
Kids love it. Three hours through the Marlborough Sounds, with a café, play areas, and the chance to spot dolphins and seals from the deck. One of the highlights of the trip.
Can you do this in reverse (Nelson to Wellington)?
Yes — just as good. Some families fly into Nelson and take the ferry back to Wellington at the end of the trip.
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