headed to nz in june. planning to arrive in nelson a couple days early to recover from the flight before hunt begins. any suggestions re must do's in this area or other fun ways to pass time here? i hear the fishing is great!

Just passed the question on the Eagle 27 as its his home territory.

Von Gruff.

Fishing is great, most rivers close to Nelson produce good fishing and of course there are the Nelson Lakes, Rotoroa and the better known Rotoiti only an hours drive from Nelson. Some good walks around these lakes too if looking to spend time in the outdoors.

Just back from around Rotoiti myself having spent the weekend hunting there. Was able to 4WD up onto the mountain tops, about 3500ft up above the tree line to a big rolling alpine area. Magnificent views but did not get onto any animals unfortunately although very hot and dry up there and they would be down in the bush mostly now during the summer.
Also spent Sunday up a mountain creek looking for Chamois, bit of sign about lower down but 3 hours bush bashing up beside a steep creek was pretty hard work for nothing. Not complaining though it's such a great place to be out and about in.

I would certainly recommend a bit of leisure time up at this lake in its alpine surroundings. Other than that in Nelson itself there is sea swimming and fishing off the beach and waterfront area and of course lots of eateries and galleries for those with a little art in them.

Do you drink wine, BB?
I think you might find some wineries to visit nearby. The famous Marlborough region is only a couple of hours by car, too.