Nelson to Wellington Road Trip

Gear up for an epic adventure from Whakatū / Nelson to Te Whanganui a Tara / Wellington with a road trip like no other. Dive into local history, cruise across the Cook Strait, and embrace the outdoors. Ready to set off on your awesome adventure? We’ve highlighted the best spots to take in the scenery, wine and dine and experience living like a local.

The Best of Nelson

Start your adventure in Whakatū / Nelson with a morning climb to the Centre of New Zealand monument. Standing tall above the city on Botanical Hill, the landmark symbolises the spot used as a central survey point in the 1800s and is marked by a giant needle sculpture. From the peak, you’ll get epic views of Nelson Tasman and its surrounds. After taking in the scenery, grab breakfast from a local cafe - East St and Tides Hotel are popular among locals and tourists alike. Continue your exploration of Nelson with a visit to the Founders Heritage Park. Here, local history and unique attractions are on display, offering visitors a fun and educational outing. Take a train ride onboard a historic locomotive, have a drink at the Hop Beer Museum and step inside the cockpit of a Bristol model freighter. Always remember to assign a designated driver when indulging in alcohol on your road trip. Next up, it’s time to hit the road for a scenic drive to Te Waiharakeke / Blenheim. Stop by the shops in town to stock up on snacks for your drive, roll down the window and let the freedom of the open road lead the way!

The Road to Blenheim

It’ll take just under two hours to drive from Nelson to Blenheim in your Thrifty rental car. Need to stretch your legs along the way? Havelock is a perfect spot to stop over and admire the stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds from Cullen Point Lookout. If you’re up for another thrilling adventure before settling in for the night, Pelorus Eco Adventures offer kayak tours down the Te Hoiere / Pelorus River. You’ll see stunning valleys, cascading waterfalls and native flora and fauna on board a kayak, paddling to your heart’s content! Once you arrive in Te Waiharakeke, spend some time wandering the city centre. With a rose garden, duck pond and walking trails, Pollard Park is a beautiful place to relax before preparing for dinner. Dolce Cafe offers delicious woodfired pizza, NZ cuisine and sharing plates to satisfy your hunger. Cheers to your adventure so far with a craft beer from a local brewery and soak up the sunset as the day ends. Remember to assign a designated driver before heading back to your accommodation for the night.

Eat, Drink and Catch the Ferry

Spend your morning sipping on Blenheim’s renowned wine with a scenic drive through the Marlborough Wine Region. Known for its sparkling varieties, specifically Sav Blanc, the cool climate here provides the ideal fertile soil for wine production. FROMM Winery offers an array of tasting tables and options ranging from an ‘all about Pinot Noir’ tasting to a signature tasting to suit every palate. At Nautilus Estate, tastings are held in a refreshing bar surrounded by the luscious greenery of the vineyard. If you’re looking to splurge - because why not, you’re on holiday - visit the Saint Clair Family Estate Vineyard Kitchen for a decadent lunch and an in-depth wine tasting. Remember to assign a designated driver to get you to your next destination safely. After brunch, head to Waitohi / Picton, just over 20 minutes out of Blenheim, to drop off your Thrifty rental car before embarking on the Interislander ferry. Remember to pick up your second rental vehicle at the Wellington Interislander Ferry Terminal upon your arrival, and return at any preferred location on the North Island. An adventure in itself, enjoy your cruisy ferry ride from Picton to Te Whanganui a Tara / Wellington and remember to take plenty of pics for the ‘gram!

Wonderful Wellington

After a three and a half hour ferry ride, you’ll arrive in Wellington with your second hire vehicle ready and waiting for you. Now it’s time to explore the ‘World’s coolest little capital’ and discover life in the city. If you need a pick-me-up after the ferry trip, check out Caffe L'affare to taste some of Wellington’s renowned coffee. Spend your afternoon strolling down the trendy Cuba Street. From cosy cafes to hip bookstores, Cuba Street is known for its lively atmosphere and eclectic collection of shops. Aside from cool coffee shops and alternative boutiques, Wellington also boasts a thriving dining scene. Tuck into a meal at Bin44 - a waterfront restaurant and bar with a pub feel. Choose between burgers or pizza on the all-day menu or indulge in a smoked meat sharing board. End your Nelson to Wellington Road trip with a late-night walk along the waterfront, grab an ice cream and enjoy the bliss of being out-of-office for a little while longer.

As you wrap up your epic road trip, you’ll return home with memories that'll last a lifetime. From tasting the adventure in the Marlborough Sounds to wandering the lively streets of Wellington, you’re guaranteed a blast of a time; and it’s oh-so-easy with a Thrifty.