Brightwater Nelson attractions and things to do range from local wine trails to exploring the Wairoa Gorge in summer. There are two historically significant church buildings as well as a memorial to Lord Rutherford.
Whistle stop photo moment at Brightwater and check out the wineries. It is Nelson after all with its well-known wine trails. There are two heritage church’s worth a second look for those interested in New Zealand church architecture.
Brightwater highlights:
- Home to Lord Rutherford memorial, birthplace of a giant in the 20th century scientific community
- St Michael’s wooden church architecture
- St Paul’s Anglican church
- Kaimara Winery
- Middle-Earth Winery
- Great Taste Cycle Trail entrance / exit
Church architecture scroll through History — Brightwater Anglican Churches, both churches are very attractive in their rural settings.
WAIROA GORGE MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK
Wairoa Gorge is home to over 70km of hand-built mountain bike trails that run through a lush native and beech forest environment. The Wairoa Gorge has a number of summer swimming holes.
WHO TURNED UP AND NAMED BRIGHTWATER, NELSON?
Brightwater (Maori place name Wairoa) is approximately 20 km south of Nelson. Originally named Spring Grove, European settler Alfred Saunders, owner of a flax mill and prominent citizen changed the name of the settlement to Brightwater due to the clarity of the Wairoa River. The settlement was named in 1855, with the first houses appearing in the early 1840’s.
Brightwater was the birthplace of Nobel Prize-winning scientist, the “father of nuclear physics”, Sir Ernest Rutherford. There is a memorial to Lord Rutherford Birthplace on Lord Rutherford Road. Not very difficult to find with the Rutherford memorial being signposted as you enter town on state highway 6.
CEASED FESTIVALS
Brightwater Wine and Food Festival offered all-day entertainment, food trucks and live entertainment with local wineries and craft brews a key element. The festival has not recently been active.
BRIGHTWATER POPULATION
2, 340 (2022)
WHAT KEEPS BRIGHTWATER, NELSON TICKING?
Brightwater’s economy is dependent on the local vineyards and its proximity to Nelson with local residents commuting to jobs further afield.
BRIGHTWATER LOCATION
Every town adds to the richness of things to do and see. For more details about the region check Nelson & Nelson Region nearby attractions and events.
BEST BITS TRAVEL GUIDE
