Sun, sand, seafood and creativity nicely sums up a summer in Nelson.

The population of the region swells during the festive season as visitors both international and domestic flock to the city to indulge in the food, art, sunshine and the miles of untamed beaches that are on offer.

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The city is home to many fantastic art galleries showcasing the finest artists from the region, including the World of Wearable Art museum - with Nelson giving birth to the prestigious art and fashion event.

The local cuisine is also a mark of pride with dozens of restaurants and eateries, from fine dining to funky boutique, and you never have to go far to find a bar that will cater for your particular tipple during the silly season.

A must see is the Abel Tasman National Park. The park is renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and world-famous Abel Tasman Coast Track and is bound to be a favourite for all who take the time to check it out.

Closer to home is Tahunanui beach which stretches along the edge of the city and entices hundreds of Kiwis to spend their break with a good book and plenty of sunshine on the golden sands.

If adventure is more to your liking, without going far you’ll find white water rafting, skydiving, charter fishing and rock climbing for the young and young at heart.

And to top it all off, Nelson has taken the title of number two region this year in sunshine hours, with that trend to continue through to 2013!

With an abundance of sun, beaches, fine food and wine, creative artists and miles of golden coastline I can’t think of a better place to be.

See you there!

By Tyler Adams - Newstalk ZB reporter

Photo: NelsonNZ.com

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