Nelson is one of the sunniest places in New Zealand. Located in Tasman Bay , this small town is home to over 300 full time artist and craftspeople. Opportunities abound to visit artists at work, gallery gaze, and shop at quaint and alternative shops that line the streets of Nelson.
Nelson was also the birthplace of the Montana Wearable Arts Festival and Awards that have been held since 1987. Although the Wearable Arts awards are now held in Wellington, Nelson is still home to the World of Wearable Arts collection, opened in 2001 to house garments created for its annual competition.