Nelson is known as the sunniest place in the country-and this could apply to its atmosphere, its people and its surroundings, in addition to its Mediterranean climate. The city's colonial heart is around Trafalgar Street, and the weekend market is a highlight. Within 100km (60 miles) of town are superb beaches and coastal scenery. as well as three diverse national parks: Abel Tasman, Nelson Lakes and Kahurangi. Little wonder that Nelson is considered one of the top places to visit-and to live-in the country.

BACKGROUND

 

Maori tribes migrated to this area from the North Island in the 16th century. In the 1840s New Zealand Company agent Captain Wakefield negotiated a land purchase at Nelson. Subsequent dis­agreements about ownership of further land led to the Wairau Affray and the death of Wakefield and 25 others. In 1844 the NZ Company collapsed, leaving many destitute. Recovery began in 1857, when gold was discovered, and by the end of the 19th cen­tury Nelson's rich agricultural potential was finally being realized.