From way back this sunny, laid back region at the northern end of the South Island was the place many South Islanders would go on holiday for sun, sea and seafood. Being a short flight from NZ's capital, Wellington too, it is a great place to spend a long weekend. These days it is a great place to go for lovers of fine food and wine, particularly since it has established itself on the international wine map; Decanter's Steven Spurrier called it "home to New Zealand's finest aromatics", although originally it was Nelson's chardonnay and pinot noir examples that the region was recognised for. Himmelsfeld Vineyard, Waimea, Neudorf Vineyards and Brightwater Vineyards all call Nelson home, in fact there are so many excellent wineries we can't fit them here. You'll just have to take our word for it!