Nelson lies on Tasman Bay, which is the large bay that forms the prominent indentation of the northern coast of the South Island. Just a half-hour's drive from Nelson is Rabbit Island, which lies just off the mainland, connected by a short causeway. Rabbit Island is a wild and natural place, with no commercial establishments and no overnight camping. The gates close daily at sunset. A long, sandy beach extends about 8 kilometers across the northern coast of Rabbit Island, facing Tasman Bay. Except for the picnic areas in the central part of this expansive beach, there is no development, so the rest of the island is pine groves and deserted beaches with wonderful views of Nelson, the bay and the hills.

There are many isolated and deserted areas of Rabbit Island suitable for nude use, but the eastern end of the island is where the most established nude beach is located. Once you park as far east as possible in the picnic area (the only part of the beachfront area where vehicles are allowed), walk east on the beach (to the right when facing the water) the better part of a kilometer before disrobing. This part of the beach draws small crowds of nude bathers—perhaps a few dozen on weekends and just a few on weekdays.

Although authorities are not overtly hostile toward naturists, they also are not overtly friendly. It is probably not a bad idea to be a bit discreet if textiles wander by, on foot or on horseback. If you hear a vehicle on the beach, it is probably a park ranger, so it is likewise best to cover up to be on the safe side.

more info from Free Beaches New Zealand (scroll down to Rabbit Island East)

VISUAL RESOURCES

GPS: -41.2688, 173.1672

town, region, island, country
  Richmond, Tasman, South Island, New Zealand

There are 4 placemarks related to this site.