Coastal hills and sheltered water at Cable Bay in Nelson Tasman
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LESS DRIVING. MORE EXPLORING.

Exploring Nelson and Tasman without a car

You can plan your stay around the days you want, rather than keeping a rental car for every one of them. The useful question is how to connect your accommodation, each outing and the journey back.

Plan local days and remote days separately

Start with where you are staying and the places you want to visit. A day around Nelson and a trip to a remote beach have different transport needs. Look at the actual stop or pick-up point, walking distance and return connection, not just the name of the nearest town.

Use the current bus information

Public transport and regional coach services connect parts of Nelson and Tasman, including services towards Golden Bay. Routes, operating days and fares can change. Use the official transport information below to check your journey; do not assume that reaching a town also gets you to a beach, walking track or cave entrance.

Put a guided day in the middle

A guided outing combines the transport with the experience. Barefoot’s full-day Wharariki adventure heads towards Golden Bay’s wild coast. The Ngarua Caves and Riuwaka trip is an approximately five-hour alternative with a forest walk and guided cave visit. Both offer shared and private options for up to five guests.

Confirm the pick-up details

Our day tours include return transport from Nelson accommodation. Wharariki pick-up can also be arranged between Nelson and Collingwood. Send the actual address, your guest numbers and preferred date so the team can confirm the arrangements. A request does not reserve a seat or guarantee availability.

Use a transfer when the journey is the service

A private transfer is different from a guided sightseeing day. Barefoot takes enquiries for airport, trail and other private transport. Send the collection and destination addresses, date, time, passenger numbers, luggage and any onward connection. The team confirms whether the trip can be accommodated and supplies a quote.

A couple of useful questions.

Can I book just one seat on a tour?

You can request a place on a shared tour. Other travellers may join the same departure. Ask about your preferred date; places and departures still need confirmation.

Can you plan a private day around my interests?

Yes, we take custom-tour enquiries. Tell us your dates, accommodation, group size and the places or interests you have in mind. We will discuss the plan and price before you commit.

Check before you travel

Use these official sources for current access and transport information. Conditions and services can change.

Waves sweeping across Wharariki Beach beneath the Archway Islands

LET’S MAKE A DAY OF IT

Bring us your plans.

Send your preferred date, guest numbers and accommodation. We will confirm the options with you. An enquiry does not reserve places or take payment.

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A LITTLE LOCAL KNOW-HOW

Plan a better day out.

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