Lastly, we took a short drive to explore the surrounds of Nelson. Just a short drive from the ‘burbs is Matai Valley, the weekend playground for Nelsonites.

Can you believe that all this is a mere 15 minute drive from the centre of Nelson?

Hubby wanted to visit here because of some obscure geological significance.

The peaks and distances freaked me out though, and we hardly made it out of the car park.

Instead, I contemplated the view of the dam.

We did a short walk near the dam, which warranted a nice meal back in town.