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Maori children
Northland, New Zealand
Queen Charlotte Sound
Routeburn Track
Boating in Taupo
Tongariro, New Zealand
Wellington, New Zealand

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Day 5 : Wellington to Nelson

Travel time is approximate only, based on an average driving speed under normal road conditions.

  Travel time Km (Miles)
Wellington - Picton 3 hrs 98 61
Picton - Nelson 1.75 hrs 145 91
Totals for Day 4.75 hrs 243 152

Wellington - Picton

98 km (61 miles)
Approximately 3 hours
Road Conditions: By Sea

Wellington City is compact, cultured and full of character. Nestled between the harbour and the hills, the downtown area is ideal for explorations on foot.

Enjoy cafes, restaurants, museums and all kinds of shops. Dance, theatre and musical performances are a Wellington specialty. As New Zealand's capital, this city is rich in political history.

The passage across Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds is one of the most scenic ferry trips in the world. The fast ferry makes the trip in just over two hours, the cruise-style ferry takes three hours. Both types of vessel can transport vehicles.

Highlights along the way include the Red Rocks seal colony, Tory Channel, Cook's Lookout and the beautiful coves of the sounds.

The picturesque seaside town of Picton is the South Island base for the ferry service that links the North and South islands of New Zealand.

It's also the gateway to the marine, forest and island attractions of the Marlborough Sounds. Museums and interesting walks will keep you entertained while you're here.

Picton - Nelson

145 km (91 miles)
Approximately 1.75 hours
Road Conditions: State Highway/Arterial

The picturesque seaside town of Picton is the gateway to the marine, forest and island attractions of the Marlborough Sounds. Museums and interesting walks will keep you entertained while you're here.

The drive to Nelson first takes you to the town of Havelock, which is known as the Green Shell Mussel Capital of the World. Nearby Canvastown is a place to explore old gold mining fields—thousands tried to get rich here in the 1860s.

At Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve you can enjoy a bush walk or a swim, depending on the time of the year. And if you'd like a glimpse of local life in 1890, Rai Valley has a beautifully preserved cottage museum.

The city of Nelson is home to a fascinating community of beach, bush and art lovers. From here you can organise yourself an eco-adventure or become immersed in the local creative culture.

View more Specialised New Zealand driving routes.

Directory Information

Wellington:
Accommodation, Attractions and Activities, Tours, Transport, Visitor Information

Picton, Marlborough:
Accommodation, Attractions and Activities, Tours, Transport, Visitor Information

Nelson:
Accommodation, Attractions and Activities, Tours, Transport, Visitor Information

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The largest range of escorted & small group tours

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Let's go on an adventure

New Zealand self-drive tours

NZ Self-Drive Tours

Explore NZ on a custom self-drive package holiday

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Bluebridge Cook Strait ferries

Cross Cook Strait and enjoy Kiwi hospitality.

World Nomads Travel Insurance

Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance for independent travellers.