I love seeing Nelson back to its best this summer after years of disruption. Covid was devastating to our visitor industry in the summer of ’21 and ’22 and then last summer, we had the closure of State Highway 6 for storm repairs.
The diversity of activities available is what makes our region so special. I’ve been tramping in the Kahurangi National Park, swimming in the Lee River and at Tāhunanui Beach, catching snapper in Tasman Bay as well as biking and running on the Great Taste Trail.
I’ve also enjoyed performances of The Servant of Two Masters at Fairfield House, the Black Caps at Saxton Cricket Oval, the Art in the Park exhibition at Queens Gardens and the Nelson Harness Races. My favourite indulgence this time of year is picking and gorging on the region’s tasty berryfruit.
The weather has been spectacular despite us losing out to Tekapo and coming second in the sunshine stakes for 2023. We should not be shy about having the most sunshine hours in 12 of the 23 years since 2000.
Tekapo, New Plymouth, Whakatāne and Blenheim have the odd win but none match Nelson’s consistency. We also have the lesser-known attribute of a lack of wind with NIWA data revealing we have one of lowest average wind speeds in the country.
There is still lots to do in the months ahead of balmy weather. I recommend the Summer Movies al Fresco that run until 24 February. This week includes screenings of Brother John at Pioneers Park tonight, Shrek at Isel Park tomorrow night, The Italian Job at Victory Square on Friday night and The Railway Children at Higgins Heritage Park on Saturday night. There is also the Summer Kite Festival on Saturday and Sunday, from 12-5pm at Neale Park.
Culture vultures like me are to be spoilt with the international Adam Chamber Music Festival from 1-10 February with acclaimed musicians from Japan, Hungary, Russia and the US.
We also have more international cricket with the White Ferns vs England on 22 and 24 March.
My thanks to the many Nelsonians who work so hard to make these events happen. Let’s get out and enjoy!
