Rabbit Island

Last but not least, Nelson gets another entry! At the head of Tasman Bay, a quick 15-minute drive from Richmond, you will find 8 kilometers of safe sandy beach to explore. Rabbit Island is a magnificent 13-kilometer stretch of beach located 20 kilometers west of Nelson. A favorite area for leisure all year, and ideal for a picnic. The 'island' also features a variety of walking trails and the largest picnic area in the vicinity. If you are a cyclist, there are also some excellent mountain bike paths to be found.

This is the district's largest picnic space, making Rabbit Island ideal for any gathering. The public reserves are only open during daylight hours, and they may be closed if there is a high risk of fire. The perimeter road is a favorite among walking groups and is a great place to jog. Many sea birds, including the white heron and royal spoonbill, as well as many other wading birds, feed in the tidal waters as the tide comes in and out.

Location: Nelson, New Zealand