When is the best time to visit Nelson?
Summer
If you’re in search of warm temperatures and lots of outdoor activities, book Invercargill to Nelson flights during summer. The average daytime temperature is 22°C, with lows of 13°C, and rain is less common than in other seasons. There are usually around 9 days of rain across summer. It can get as high as 30°C in January and February, though extremely warm days like this aren’t that common. In most cases, temperatures hover around the high teens and low twenties — ideal temperatures for sightseeing and hiking.
Autumn
It’s easy to fall for the charm of Nelson during the months of March through to May. If you book flights Invercargill to Nelson for this time, you’ll be able to witness the city’s gorgeous autumnal colours. From golden vineyards to warm sunny days and cool, crisp evenings, Nelson is a fantastic place to visit during autumn. The earlier in the season you book Invercargill to Nelson flights, the warmer it’s likely to be. Temperatures in March and April are still generally quite warm — averages are 18°C and 20°C — and there are fewer crowds than during summer. April and May are great months for hiking, making it an ideal time for avid walkers to grab Invercargill to Nelson flights.
Winter
Winter in Nelson is much warmer than other areas of the country. Temperatures can still get down to around 2°C at night, so it’s advisable to wrap up with a couple of extra layers while you’re out sightseeing. Average daytime temperatures are 12°C and rain is also fairly common — there’s approximately 95mm of rain in July — but if you’re looking for cheap Invercargill to Nelson flights, you probably have the best chance of finding bargains in June or July.
Spring
If you want to enjoy pleasant temperatures without the large crowds of summer, book flights Invercargill to Nelson during spring. The beaches are still generally quiet and you’ll also be in time for the Nelson Arts Festival. Temperatures in September are usually around 15°C and can get as high as 20°C by November.
Getting to and from Nelson Airport
Once your Invercargill Airport (IVC) to Nelson flight arrives, there are a few ways you can quickly and conveniently get into the city centre. The quickest way to get from Nelson Airport (NSN) into the city is to catch a taxi. The taxi rank is located just outside the arrivals terminal and the trip should only take you around 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can book an airport bus or coach service like Jayride.
Nelson neighbourhood overview
Nelson Central
The centre of Nelson is a great place to book to stay in when you fly Invercargill to Nelson. It’s close to Nelson Airport — about 12 minutes by taxi or car — and the museums, including WOW (The World of Wearable Art and Collectable Cars) and Suter Art Gallery, as well as the city’s top cafes such as Kush Coffee. You’ll still be able to take advantage of the region’s famously sunny weather; it’s only 9 minutes from Tahunanui Beach by car or less than an hour if you want to walk. If you do plan to travel to other areas of the region, like Abel Tasman National Park, you won’t have to spend long getting there. For instance, it is only a one-hour drive to the national park.
Tahunanui
For a spot within walking distance of the beach, consider staying in Tahunanui. Nelson is one of New Zealand’s sunniest areas, and you can take full advantage of the sun by staying near the city’s most popular beach when you book Invercargill to Nelson flights.
Kaiteriteri
Kaiteriteri is a small seaside resort in the Tasman Region and main gateway to Abel Tasman National Park — one of the region's most popular areas with both locals and tourists with flights to Nelson. You can get to the national park in Kaiteriteri by water shuttle or car. Kaiteriteri s also near some of the region’s best wineries including the Riwaka River Estate.
Golden Bay
About 90 minutes' drive from Nelson is the scenic area of Golden Bay. To get there, you drive over the Takaka Hill, otherwise known as the 'marble mountain'. The bay itself is famous for its scallops, making it a great spot for foodies with flights Invercargill to Nelson. If you’re looking for a break from city life, it doesn’t get much more quiet and picturesque than Golden Bay.
