Nelson Tasman Stands Out As 2011 Tourism Hotspot

New Zealand was recently ranked second on a list of the nine hottest tourism destinations for 2011. The list, which was put together by CNN in collaboration with a panel of tourism experts, cited hosting the Rugby World Cup as a huge advantage, and New Zealand can expect to benefit from the international attention. Between the Rugby World Cup and the country’s unique natural attractions, New Zealand will likely emerge in 2011 as a major player in the global tourism industry. The Nelson Tasman area, in particular, is likely to gain international notoriety as a must-see destination within New Zealand.

As home to New Zealand’s first rugby club as well as the venue for the nation’s first ever rugby game (played in 1870), it is appropriate that Nelson is celebrating the Rugby World Cup with a two month-long ‘Game On’ festival. On 20 September, the historic first rugby game will be re-enacted at the Botanic Reserve. The festival will also include Fanzones for the semi-final and final matches, where fans can watch the games on the big screen in a thrilling crowd environment.

The city of Nelson is hosting two World Cup matches in September 2011, adding to the already full calendar of things to do in Nelson. With two thirds of the tickets for these games already sold, Nelson ticket sales are among the highest in the provincial host regions. Clearly, Nelson is an attractive venue choice for those attending the World Cup.

While an international event like the Rugby World Cup is certainly a draw, the Nelson Tasman region is expecting an increase in tourism throughout the year. The ‘Top of the South’ is well known within New Zealand as a great holiday destination and has been gaining international attention too. In 2010, the Lonely Planet guidebook cited a visit to Abel Tasman Park as an “essential experience”. The most recent edition of the Lonely Planet has also singled out Tasman’s Golden Bay as kiwi comedian Rhys Darby’s favourite spot in the country. Darby even offers a Tasman Nelson restaurant recommendation: wild boar pie at the Naked Possum Café.

Of course, Nelson restaurants and wineries are an attraction unto themselves. The region is well-known for its cuisine, which showcases the fantastic seafood, meats and fruits and vegetables produced in the Mediterranean-like climate. As the Slow Food movement gains international popularity, more and more visitors are interested in experiencing the local cuisine at its freshest and finest. With Nelson restaurants promising quality and creativity, the cuisine is just one more reason Nelson is making its way onto holiday itineraries.

Thanks to increased mentions in international guidebooks, the Rugby World Cup and the area’s overall appeal as a tourism destination, it looks like 2011 will be a big year for Nelson Tasman tourism. Visit www.nelsonnz.com