Beautiful all year round, summer is really the optimum time to explore the region. Wander through the town to discover a vast array of restored colonial cottages, shop fronts and old Victorian homes. Beneath the hanging flower baskets that line the main streets, numerous cafes and boutique stores ply their trades. If you arrive in Autumn expect to be stunned by the array of stunning seasonal leaves.
Take the scenic ten minute drive from the city along Rocks Road to discover rugged Tahunanui beach, fringed by towering mountains. In winter the peaks are covered in breathtaking alpine snow. Alongside the beach and jutting into the harbour entrance is the Boulder Bank.
The natural thirteen kilometre bank of rocks stretches parallel with the waterfront. A small ferry takes visitors over to explore the old lighthouse. Stop at any of the seaside restaurants or continue further south into neighbouring Tasman district to discover alternative lifestyles, the internationally acclaimed Able Tasman Nation Park or the stunning beaches of Golden Bay.
