[catjlin]

Sorry if someone has already asked, but has anyone any thoughts on Nelson on the S. Island? From all we've read, seen etc. it seems to be the most fitting for us (mid 20's, avid outdoors people, love our dogs); rather reminds me a bit of Napa (California). Does anyone know how pet friendly it is? We tend to baby our dogs and take them everywhere despite size (both over 100lbs.). I'd love to hear your thoughts!

[catjlin]

Oops, almost forgot! Surfing? I've heard through the grapevine that there's a great reef break 2km off Nelson. Any truth to the rumour? Is that the only spot nearby? I'm hoping there are more! :hopeso

[Babette & Andy]

Hi Catjlin
Yes there was another thread relating to Nelson not too long ago:
http://www.emigratenz.org/forums/viewtopic.php?t=45&highlight=nelson

My family emigrated to Nelson in Sep'03, and my youngest sister (19) currently attends an 'outward bound college course' (not sure of the realy course's name). She'd therefore be best placed to advise you on activities (she's into tramping, climbing, sea cayaking, snowboarding, skiing - you name it, it's part of the course she's doing!!)
Send me an e-mail and I'll happily forward it to her so that she can reply to you directly about any of your questions.
Anything else, just PM me. :nice1

Best of luck
Babette

[catjlin]

Thanks Babbette! I will be PM'ing you. Thank you!

[toesonthenose]

I have not surfed in NZ, but I can assure you it is better than Colorado.
Here is a website with some info on local Nelson breaks, http://www.surf.co.nz/regions/nelson/. It looks like with Nelson tucked so far south in the large bay, that it is sheltered from most directional swells. The above link talks about NW swells being the best. I was there in March, and the water was very cold (to me) at various points all over both islands, definitely a thick wet suit, year round. I must admit I am used to the water being between 75F-82F all year, so my cold tolerance is worse than when I lived in Socal. I have a friend in NZ who surfs and she only has mentioned Raglan, she will usuall go to OZ, or here in Hawaii for surf trips.

[catjlin]

Thanks for all the leads on info. Yeah, not much surfing here in CO (other than over snow), but we moved here from So Cal and I grew up in Nor Cal so the cold water shouldn't be too bad. Much appreciated.