Three Gardens Walk

Loop

• The Church Steps: These are more than just a staircase; they are a Nelson institution. They offer a fantastic vantage point looking straight down the spine of the city towards the Haven.
• Christ Church Cathedral: Even if you aren't religious, the architecture and the surrounding interpretive panels are fascinating. Take a moment to read about the history of the site as a former fortified pā.
• Queens Gardens & The Cupid Fountain: Established in 1892, this is the jewel of Nelson’s parks. The central rose garden with the Cupid Fountain is a Victorian masterpiece.
• Huangshi Chinese Garden: Tucked within Queens Gardens, this "garden within a garden" was opened in 2007 to celebrate Nelson's sister-city relationship with Huangshi, China. It is incredibly serene, featuring traditional architecture and design principles that offer a complete change of pace.
• The Water Wheel: Located in Queens Gardens, this functional piece of history provides a soothing soundtrack to your walk and is a hit with kids.
• Hallowell Cemetery: One of the oldest burial grounds in the city, it provides a quiet, reflective space that tells the stories of the city's early European settlers.

Getting There

The beauty of this walk is its accessibility. Because it starts in the heart of Nelson Central, you can't really miss it.

• Street Parking: You can find metered parking along Trafalgar Street or Nile Street.
• Public Car Parks: There are several large public car parks within a five-minute walk of the steps (check the local council signs for time limits, as some are short-stay).
• Public Transport: Most local buses stop within a block or two of the city centre, making it easy to ditch the car entirely.

Wildlife Spotting

While you are in the middle of the city, the "three gardens" act as a vital corridor for local birdlife. Keep your eyes peeled and your ears open for these locals:

• Tūī: These are incredibly common throughout the walk. Listen for their distinctive metallic clicks and whistles, especially in the kōwhai trees or around the flowering gums on Church Hill.
• Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly little birds will likely follow you through the Queens Gardens, darting around to catch the tiny insects you stir up as you walk.
• Kererū (NZ Wood Pigeon): You might hear the heavy "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings before you see them. They love the large, mature exotic and native trees in both Church Hill and Queens Gardens.
• Eels (Tunangā): Look into the Eel Pond in Queens Gardens. If you're lucky (and the light is right), you might see the long-finned eels gliding through the dark water.
• Weka: While more common on the outskirts of town, keep an eye out in the scrubbier edges of the gardens; these cheeky, flightless birds are known to make occasional appearances.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

Nelson is famous for its sunshine, making this walk a great option all year round. However, each season brings its own flavour:

• Spring: This is arguably the best time to visit. The rose gardens in Queens Gardens burst into life, and the cherry blossoms on the city streets are world-class.
• Autumn: The deciduous trees on Church Hill and in Queens Gardens turn brilliant shades of gold, orange, and red. It’s a photographer's dream.
• Summer: The gardens provide a much-needed leafy canopy and shade from the Nelson heat. It’s the perfect time for a picnic on the grass.
• Winter: Nelson winters are often crisp, clear, and blue-skied. The walk is short enough that you won't get too cold, and a hot coffee at the end is the perfect reward.

• Start Time: Mid-morning is lovely for the light, but an early evening stroll is also magical when the "golden hour" hits the Cathedral.
• What to Wear: You don't need hiking boots; a comfortable pair of sneakers or even sturdy sandals will do fine.
• Sun Protection: Even though there is shade, the New Zealand sun is fierce. Wear a hat and sunscreen, especially in the open sections along Nile Street.
• Hydration: There are water fountains in the gardens, but it’s always a good idea to carry a small bottle.

Local & Regional Context

The Three Gardens Walk isn't just about plants; it's a walk through the layers of Nelson’s history. To the local iwi, the area of Church Hill is known as Pikimai. Long before the first European ships arrived, this hill was a strategic pā (fortified village) site, offering a clear view of the surrounding plains and the sea.

When the New Zealand Company settlers arrived in the 1840s, they identified this same hill as the administrative heart of their new "Nelson." You can see this transition in the architecture and the way the city is laid out. The Hallowell Cemetery serves as a permanent record of those early, often difficult, colonial years.

The inclusion of the Maitai River's influence (via the Eel Pond) reminds us of the natural geography that shaped the city. The river was, and remains, a vital artery for the region. By walking this loop, you are essentially walking through a timeline of Nelson—from its Māori origins to its Victorian ambitions and its modern, multicultural identity.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your loop back at the Church Steps, you are perfectly positioned to refuel. Nelson’s cafe culture is legendary, and some of the best spots are just a stone's throw away:

• Tern Coffee House: Just 100 metres from the steps on Church Street, this is a family-run gem. Their coffee is expertly brewed, and it’s a very welcoming spot to rest your legs.
• East St. Cafe and Bar: If you want something a bit "funky," head here. They have a brilliant courtyard garden and are famous for their delicious vegan options. It’s a great spot for a relaxed lunch.
• The Suter Café: If you want to extend your time in the gardens, head to the cafe inside The Suter Art Gallery. It overlooks Queens Gardens, offering a peaceful view while you enjoy a Havana coffee.
• Lambretta's Cafe Bar: A Nelson classic with a fun Italian/scooter theme. It’s great for families, with a big menu ranging from pizzas to sweet treats.
• Hawker House: If you’ve timed your walk for the late afternoon, head here for some incredible South East Asian street food. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and just steps from where you started.

Whether you're a local looking for a fresh perspective on your city or a tourist wanting to see the "real" Nelson, the Three Gardens Walk is two hours very well spent.

200m away

Inspired by South East Asian street food, Hawker House offers a vibrant dining experience with a diverse menu, including hand-picked vegetables and flavorful cuts of meat, just steps from the Church Steps.