Explore the Top of the South
Visit our local attractions, or travel further afield - the choice is yours.
Staying at Snowball Manor, conveniently located in Wakefield, makes exploring the Nelson Tasman region easy!
Nelson Tasman Great Taste Trail
One of the best cycle trail in New Zealand, this cycle way takes you through towns, past orchards and vineyards, sparkling coastlines, rivers and hill valleys. It’s called The Great ‘Taste’ Trail because of the incredible diversity of experiences you sample along the trail.
Stay at snowball Manor and choose a section or two and head out for a couple of hours, take the whole day, or enjoy a multi-day biking adventure.
Spooners Tunnel
Riding through Spooners Tunnel is a highlight. It is a 1.4km long rail tunnel, the longest decommissioned tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere. The railway line was closed in 1955, against major protests at the time.
Please note Spooners Tunnel is dark and chilly all year round, so bring lights, and an extra layer.
From the tunnel exit, a pleasant 5km descent brings you to Belgrove and the historic railway windmill, one of only two left in New Zealand.
Mapua Wharf
Situated by the stunning Waimea Estuary, and less than a 30 minute drive from Wakefield, Mapua Wharf is the premier destination for shopping, eating and other activities on beautiful Mapua Wharf.
Visit Mapua Village and the Mapua Wharf and enjoy our range of shops, galleries, restaurants, bars and cafés.
Wakefield
The lovely village of Wakefield has a wonderful sense of history. Wakefield Primary School is New Zealand's oldest school and has been in continuous use since 1843. The picturesque St John's Church, built in 1864, is New Zealand's second oldest surviving church.
Nelson Lakes National Park
Nelson Lakes National Park is situated in the north of New Zealand's South Island. The gateway to the park is St Arnaud, a 45 minute drive from Wakefield.
Water sports, short walks and fishing are all available at Lake Rotoiti, while Lake Rotoroa is a more remote, tranquil area.
Abel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and its world-famous coast track.
Easily accessible, and only one hour’s drive away from Wakefield, take your time to explore this beautiful part of the Nelson Tasman region.
Rainbow Skifield
Rainbow Ski Area is a ski resort in the Nelson Lakes National Park.
With uncrowded slopes and well groomed trails, beginners and intermediates can enjoy themselves, and advanced skiers can experience the high powder runs and chutes. Snowboarders love the varied terrain, jumps, bumps and drops in the specially developed terrain park.
It opens from late June to early October.