Facing the Tasman Bay, Nelson is a beautiful coastal city in the northern part of the South Island.

For those looking to further explore off trail Nelson is a great side trip offering cafes, museums, beaches and access to the nearby Abel Tasman National Park with hiking, kayaking and swimming.

After completing the Richmond Ranges section of TA it is possible to hitch or organise a lift from St Arnaud to Nelson to resupply at the bigger city supermarkets and refresh before another long and remote section of trail.