Cheap Date Ideas in Nelson

If you and your partner are the adventurous sort, the Grampians Reserve Viewing Platform in Nelson South is a great place to go on a date. The walk up the hill is challenging but worth it, with breathtaking views of the bay waiting at the top. The reserve offers multiple routes to the top, so you can customize your experience based on your fitness level. The lookout is a few hundred meters from the top, so it's a better option than the tower. The terrain is good, although there are some steep parts, so it may not be suitable for everyone. The peaceful ambiance and stunning views make this reserve perfect for couples looking for a unique date experience. However, the limited activities and lack of dining options may not be ideal for those looking for a longer or more immersive date experience.

For couples who enjoy the outdoors, the Coppermine Trail in Nelson is a great option for a date. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The uphill climb can be challenging, so it's best suited for active and fit couples. However, the downhill section is a thrilling ride and an excellent reward for the effort. The trail's remote location offers a sense of isolation that can be a perfect opportunity for couples to connect with nature and each other. The trail's alpine terrain requires appropriate clothing, which might be a downside for those who prefer a more casual date. This date idea is not recommended for those who prefer indoor activities or have limited mobility.

Photo Sean Duggan

For couples seeking a romantic and serene outdoor experience, Queen's Gardens in Nelson is an excellent choice. The lush greenery and well-manicured lawns provide a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic. The garden's central location in the city makes it easily accessible and a great option for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Reviews from visitors have been overwhelmingly positive, praising the garden's beauty and tranquility. The garden's popularity, however, may result in a lack of privacy during peak hours. Overall, Queen's Gardens is a great spot for a romantic outdoor date, offering a beautiful and peaceful ambiance that is sure to impress.

Photo Holger Woens

Hawker House is a top-rated restaurant-bar hybrid in Nelson that offers a perfect blend of delicious food, great service, and a lively atmosphere. Its unique concept of street food and drinks served in a warehouse-style setting makes it a standout choice for a romantic date. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and efficient, which adds to the overall ambiance. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes that are both delicious and reasonably priced. The only downside is that the vibrant atmosphere might not suit those seeking a more intimate and private date.

Photo Jeffrey Yen

Grampians Reserve in Nelson is a great option for couples who love the outdoors and want to enjoy a bit of exercise together. The reserve offers a range of walking tracks, each with its own unique view of the city, the hills, and the Tasman Sea. The steep incline of some tracks might not be ideal for everyone, but the stunning views make it worth the effort. The reserve is also conveniently located close to the city, making it an easy and accessible date option. The natural beauty of the area provides a peaceful and romantic ambiance, perfect for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

A must-visit for car enthusiasts, the Nelson Classic Car Museum in Annesbrook boasts an impressive collection of classic cars that will take you on a journey through automotive history. The museum has a relaxed atmosphere, with no ropes to restrict movement, giving visitors the freedom to explore the vehicles up close. The cafe on-site is a great spot to take a break and refuel before continuing the tour. The museum's entry fee is reasonable, and seniors receive a discount. While it might not be everyone's cup of tea, those with an appreciation for classic cars will find this museum a fascinating and enjoyable date destination.

Moturoa Rabbit Island is a picturesque park and beach area located in Nelson, New Zealand. This location offers pristine and clean beaches, excellent toilet facilities, and well-maintained barbecue facilities. It's a popular spot for families with young children and couples looking for a peaceful retreat. The beach is quite large and can get crowded during peak times, but there is adequate parking available. One of the best things about this location is that dogs and commercial activities are banned, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil and natural environment. Overall, it's a great place for a romantic date, especially for those who enjoy the outdoors and a peaceful atmosphere.

Photo Stig Lindqvist

The Nelson Market is a vibrant and bustling location that is perfect for couples who enjoy immersing themselves in the local culture and meeting new people. With a diverse range of stalls, from fresh produce to handmade crafts, there is something for everyone. The market has a lively atmosphere that is enhanced by the live music performances from local artists. However, this may not be the ideal location for couples seeking a private or intimate date, as it can get quite crowded. The market is an affordable option for couples who want to enjoy a unique shopping and dining experience, but it may not be suitable for those who prefer a more upscale or formal setting.

Whispering Falls is a picturesque waterfall nestled in the Aniseed Valley, Nelson. This is a great spot for couples who enjoy the outdoors and are looking for a scenic hike. The walk to the falls is relatively easy and suitable for all ages, with a few slippery surfaces along the way. The river crossing might pose a challenge for some, but it adds to the adventure. The waterfall itself is stunning, with the angle of the sun's rays making it particularly magical at certain times of the day. However, it's important to note that the bridge has been washed away due to heavy rainfall, so an alternative crossing is currently in place. Overall, this is a great option for a romantic date that involves a bit of adventure and nature.

Fifeshire Rock, formerly known as Arrow Rock, is a stunning natural landmark located in Nelson. This photogenic rock is a popular spot for couples looking to capture its beauty and enjoy a romantic moment together. The rock's unique shape and location provide a magical backdrop for a date, especially when the lighting is just right. However, it is important to note that this is a relatively small attraction and might not be the best option for those seeking a lengthy date experience. Overall, this is an excellent option for couples looking for a unique photo opportunity and a brief, yet memorable, date experience.

Photo Peter Harrison

The Maitai Walkway in Nelson is a serene oasis that offers a peaceful retreat for couples looking to connect with nature. The sound of the river adds to the overall enchanting ambiance of the walkway, and the plenty of shade makes it a great summer date spot. The walkway is conveniently located, with easy access to cafes, supermarkets, and the city centre. The availability of seating and great views make it a comfortable and scenic walk. As a free outdoor activity, it is an affordable option for couples on a budget.

Photo Wendy Homeyard

A serene and picturesque spot in Nelson, Miyazu Japanese Garden is a great choice for a romantic date. The garden's design is inspired by traditional Japanese gardens, with features such as ponds, bridges, and stepping stones, which offer a unique and immersive experience. The garden is well-maintained, although some areas may appear a bit overgrown or in need of a clean. Despite this, the overall atmosphere remains peaceful and romantic. The garden's small size makes it an ideal choice for a short yet memorable date.

Photo Cheryl Camp

Pic's Peanut Butter World in Nelson is a quirky yet educational date spot that caters to peanut butter lovers. The factory tour, which must be pre-booked, is a unique experience that provides an insight into the peanut butter-making process. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about their jobs, which adds to the overall experience. The free tasting of different flavours at the end of the tour is a highlight for many, and the onsite cafe offers a range of food options for those wanting to extend their date. However, the factory tour might not be everyone's cup of tea, and the factory setting might not be the most romantic backdrop for a date.

The Rimu Grove Cellar Door and Wine Bar in Māpua is a charming spot for a romantic date, especially for wine enthusiasts. The atmosphere is casual and warm, with a welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home. The wine selection is excellent, and the staff is knowledgeable and helpful in assisting with your choices. The pizza is a standout feature of the menu and pairs well with the wine. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying the sun during the day, while the indoor space is nicely fitted out for evening dates. The overall experience is a great value for the price and is highly recommended for couples who appreciate good wine and a relaxed ambiance.

Huangshi Garden in Nelson is a serene and picturesque spot that is a perfect choice for a romantic date. As part of the Queen's Garden, this garden is a hidden gem that will transport you to China with its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful pavilion. The garden is well-maintained and provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It's an ideal spot for couples who want to spend quality time together in a serene environment. The limited space might not cater to those seeking a lengthy date, but it's perfect for a quick escape or as a part of a larger date itinerary.

Photo Kai #

The Centre of New Zealand Monument in Maitai, Nelson is a picturesque destination for adventurous couples seeking a scenic hike with stunning views. The hike to the top can be challenging with steep and slippery sections, but it's worth the effort for the breathtaking panoramic views of Nelson and the harbor. The bush walk on the way up and the Kauai track on the way back provide a nice change of scenery. This would be a great option for couples who enjoy outdoor activities and hiking. However, those who are not physically fit or able might find this challenging. Also, since this is an outdoor attraction, it might not be ideal for a date during inclement weather.

Photo Kundeprohlis

If you're looking for a unique way to explore Mapua, the Mapua Ferry East Bank is a charming option that offers a quick and easy hop across to Mapua Wharf. The ferry ride is a highlight, offering picturesque views that can be enjoyed with your date. The ferry is also equipped with a Smart charging facility, which is a convenient feature for those with electric bikes. The staff is known for being knowledgeable and hardworking, making the experience all the more enjoyable. As a short activity, it might not cater to those seeking a lengthy, immersive date, but it's an excellent addition to a day of exploring the area.

Photo Germaine Tuff

Grossi Point Reserve in Māpua is a picturesque, peaceful spot for a romantic date. With views of the sea and the Richmond Ranges, it offers a serene and scenic environment that is perfect for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The reserve is a popular spot for fishing and boating, which might make for a fun activity to share with your partner. The seating and picnic areas provide a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a meal or simply take in the stunning views. With its proximity to civilization, it is a great option for a quick and easy date that won't require extensive planning.

Photo Carol Parkinson

Nestled in the hills behind Richmond, Silvan Forest Mountain Bike Park is a great option for couples who love the outdoors and are keen on a bit of adventure. The park offers a range of trails to cater to all levels of experience, with stunning views of the surrounding flora and fauna. However, it's worth noting that the park lacks basic amenities such as toilets and water facilities, which might impact the overall experience. The park's natural beauty and the fun factor of the trails make it a great choice for a daytime date, but it might not be ideal for those seeking a more intimate or private experience.

Photo Paul Shelling

Tahunanui Beach Carpark in Nelson is a picturesque spot that offers a great location for a romantic date. The beach is beautiful and has plenty of space for a stroll with your partner, or even a picnic on the grassy areas. While the car park can get a bit crowded, it is still worth the visit for the stunning views and the opportunity to explore the surrounding area. The beach is also dog-friendly, so if you and your partner are dog lovers, this could be an excellent spot for you. However, the lack of privacy and potential crowds may be a downside for some couples. Overall, Tahunanui Beach Carpark is a great location for a casual and relaxed date.

Photo Jeremy Gush

For the adventurous couple, Codgers Trails in Nelson is an excellent choice for a date. The variety of trails on offer caters to all skill levels, making it a great option for a mixed-ability couple. The trails are well-established and offer great views of the surrounding area. It's also noteworthy that dogs are allowed on the trails, which could be a plus for pet-loving couples. The lack of toilet facilities might be a downside, but the overall experience seems to be worth it. The fact that it's a park doesn't necessarily make it a romantic spot, but it's a great choice for an active date.

Photo Damag381

Footpool in Tahunaui, Nelson is a unique and exciting attraction for a casual date. This establishment offers a fun and active experience that is perfect for couples who enjoy a bit of friendly competition. It's important to note that Footpool is only open on weekends, which may limit options for some couples. However, the positive reviews suggest that it is a great option for families and groups, making it a good choice for double dates or group outings. The lack of detail in one of the reviews may indicate a lack of enthusiasm, but the majority of reviews are positive, which bodes well for the overall experience. With affordable pricing and an engaging activity, Footpool is a solid choice for a casual and active date.

Photo Matt Wilson