For those not interested in the gentle art of fly fishing, the Motueka area has plenty of other interests, some strenuous some not so strenuous….such as hiking and bush walks in and about the famous Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks, white water rafting, golf, bird watching, tennis, lying around on our beautiful beaches or you can go horse trekking with experienced guides.

Many internationally recognised artists, weavers and potters live in the area attracted by the beautiful climate and variety of scenery, and a visit to their studios is well worth while.

Nelson lies right at the heart of New Zealand, on the curving Coastline of the Northwest corner of the South Island. The landscape of the region embraces skifields, alpine lakes, wilderness mountain country, clear rivers, forest, limestone outcrops, rocky coasts and of course, the legendary golden beaches.

Nelson culture boasts a vibrant art and crafts scene and a great collection of wine and beermakers. There are parks and gardens and historic places to explore. And there are the locals to meet: people who seem particularly good at reflecting the sunny lifestyle they enjoy.

Here are some of the arts and crafts within 30 minutes drive of the lodge.

Pottery and Ceramics
There are over 100 potters both full and part-time. Whether looking for functional work or for art pieces, this region offers unparalleled opportunities for casual visitors and serious collectors alike. Nelson has a national reputation for the high standard of its potters. A large portion of the clay used by the potters all over New Zealand comes form the Nelson region, as does a good quantity of the glaze materials. Another attraction for potters is the beautiful climate. We would be happy to advise you on some of the best.

Wood Turners and Carvers Be sure to visit the internationally recognised wood artists of the Nelson region. Their innovative work ranges from platters and bowls to one off artworks. They are committed to responsible use of native timbers from sustainable sources.

Suter Art Gallery - Nelson City The Suter Art Gallery is more of an arts centre than an art gallery, featuring a continuous programme of exhibitions, plays, films, recitals and lectures. At times there are four seperate exhibitions showing concurrently.

The Art of the Wine Maker Take the opportunity to visit and taste internationally acclaimed wines from some of New Zealand's top winemakers. Most are small family owned vineyards producing classic varietal cool climate wines.

Hoglunds Glass Studio Ola and Marie Hoglund are Swedish born trained at the Orrefors and Kosta Boda Glass Works. Their new purpose built complex provides the opportunity to see beautiful glass blown, both domestic and artistic, using strong colours combined with simple direct form.

Silkwood - Fibre arts and craft centre Original designer handknits and luxury handknitting yarns from the home of Silkwood Designer Yarns. Vibrant coloured yarns in a range of natures finest fibres - choose from blends of kid mohair, alpaca, cashgora, silk, cotton and merino wool and meet the resident weaver. Visit the Studio Shop for dynamic knitwear, weaving fibre arts and crafts.