It’s like stepping back in time when you walk up historic South Street in Nelson - it is full of little cottages which open straight onto the footpath. Originally built as homes for fishermen and tradesmen, by the 1980s they had fallen into disrepair and were at risk of being demolished by a property developer. These lovely little historic homes were saved by the City of Nelson Civic Trust working with the residents, the Council and businesses, and the area is now classed as a historic precinct. And what a delightful little street it is, we thought, as we wandered up and down in the rain. Some of the cottages are cosy homes, and others are available for rent as self catering accommodation.
Historic South Street in Nelson
Historic Christ Church Cathedral sits on a hill at the top of Trafalgar Street, and looks down over the city. Christian worship was first celebrated here in 1842, and the foundation stone for the present building was laid in 1925, the third church to be built on this site. The nave was built of local Takaka marble, and after 40 years and much controversy, the building was finally completed in concrete and consecrated in 1972.
The sounds of the organ filled the cathedral as the organist ran through his repertoire. The original instrument was shipped from England to New Zealand in 1871, and underwent a rebuild in 1968.
Three stone pillars march down each side of the nave, supporting soaring arches. On the wall behind the alter hangs a large plain wooden cross, made from the timber of the first cathedral which was consecrated in 1887.
An imposing set of stone steps leads up to the 35 metre bell tower in front of the Cathedral. We walked past some workmen busy re-turfing the lawn in front of the tower.
Walking down the steps, we made our way up Trafalgar Street, the main shopping street in Nelson. Where to park the car – that was the question, and we waited on a corner while Robin drove around looking for a parking space. Several food carts dotted on the street corners were doing a roaring trade, lunch time munchers could choose from baked potatoes, noodles, or Thai take-way food. We were looking for lunch and found a likely contender when we came across “The Last Great Kiwi Cafe”. Come on up, the sign invited us. A busy cafe is always a sign of good food, and we joined the queue to order our lunches. This cafe sells Kiwi favourites such as fish and chips, sausage rolls, pies, and for afters, chocolate lamingtons and yoyos.
Sight seeing over for the day, it was time to collect the car from our 2 hour parking space, and head back to camp.
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