Admirals Motor Inn, Nelson New Zealand

Craft Beer, wine and dining

Craft Beer & Dining in Nelson

Nelson is one of New Zealand’s great destinations for food, wine and craft beer — and when you stay at Admirals Motor Inn Nelson, you’re well placed to enjoy it all.

From relaxed neighbourhood restaurants and lively bars to independent breweries, cafés and casual dining, Nelson offers plenty of choice for visitors looking to make great food and drink part of their stay.

Located at 26 Waimea Road, Nelson, Admirals Motor Inn provides comfortable, convenient accommodation close to Nelson city centre, making it easy to explore the region’s growing dining and craft beer scene.

Discover Nelson’s Craft Beer Scene

Nelson and Tasman have long been associated with hops, making the region a natural destination for craft beer lovers.

Visitors can discover locally brewed pale ales, IPAs, lagers, seasonal releases and tasting paddles at breweries, taprooms, pubs and restaurants throughout Nelson and the wider region.

Whether you are visiting Nelson for a weekend away, attending an event or simply looking for somewhere comfortable to stay while exploring local breweries, Admirals makes an excellent base.

After an afternoon sampling Nelson craft beer, return to your spacious room or apartment, relax and enjoy the convenience of having your accommodation close to the city.

Restaurants and Dining Near Admirals Motor Inn

One of the advantages of staying at Admirals is the easy access to a wide range of Nelson restaurants, cafés, bars and takeaway options.

Nelson’s dining scene includes everything from relaxed family meals and modern New Zealand cuisine to international flavours, seafood, cafés, wine bars and casual pub dining.

Guests staying with us regularly ask where they should eat, and our team is always happy to offer suggestions depending on what you are looking for.

Travelling as a family? Looking for somewhere suitable for a business dinner? Want a relaxed pub meal or somewhere special for a celebration?

Just ask us.

Make a Weekend of It

Great food and craft beer can easily form part of a wider Nelson getaway.

Spend the morning exploring Nelson city, visit the Nelson Saturday Market, head out on the Great Taste Trail, explore Tāhunanui Beach or discover some of the region’s galleries and attractions before finishing your day with dinner and a locally brewed beer.

Nelson’s compact city centre means visitors can experience a lot during a short stay, making Admirals Motor Inn a convenient option for couples, corporate travellers, families and groups.

Accommodation Near Nelson Restaurants and Bars

Admirals Motor Inn offers a range of accommodation options, including studios, one-bedroom apartments and two-bedroom apartments.

Our location provides easy access to:

  • Nelson city center
  • Nelson restaurants and cafés
  • Craft breweries and bars
  • Nelson Hospital
  • Nelson College
  • Nelson College for Girls
  • Trafalgar Centre
  • Trafalgar Park
  • Tāhunanui and Nelson Airport routes
  • Main arterial routes into and out of Nelson

Guests also enjoy free on-site parking, complimentary Wi-Fi and friendly local service.

Stay Local. Eat Local. Discover Nelson.

Whether you are planning a food-focused weekend, exploring Nelson’s craft beer scene, travelling for an event or simply looking for somewhere good to eat during your stay, Admirals Motor Inn puts you close to plenty of great options.

Our team knows Nelson and is happy to help guests discover local restaurants, cafés, breweries and experiences that suit their plans.

 

Frequently Asked Questions – Craft Beer & Dining in Nelson

1. Where are the best places for craft beer in Nelson?

Nelson is well known for its craft beer scene and its connection to locally grown hops. Visitors can enjoy locally brewed beer at breweries, taprooms, pubs and restaurants throughout Nelson and the wider Tasman region. Staying at Admirals Motor Inn provides a convenient base for exploring Nelson’s craft beer, food and hospitality scene.

2. What are the best restaurants near Admirals Motor Inn Nelson?

Admirals Motor Inn is conveniently located at 26 Waimea Road, close to Nelson city centre and a wide selection of restaurants, cafés, bars and takeaway options. Whether you are looking for casual dining, a family meal, international cuisine or somewhere for a business dinner, our team is happy to recommend local options to suit your plans.

3. Are there craft breweries close to Admirals Motor Inn?

Yes. Nelson has a strong independent brewing culture, with breweries, taprooms and bars serving Nelson and Tasman craft beers within easy reach of Admirals Motor Inn. Our central Nelson location makes Admirals a great accommodation choice for visitors wanting to experience the region’s local beer and food scene.

4. Can I walk from Admirals Motor Inn to Nelson restaurants, cafés and bars?

Yes. Admirals Motor Inn is approximately 1.5 km from the heart of Nelson city centre, with a variety of cafés, restaurants and dining options accessible from the motel. Guests can also easily drive or use local transport to explore dining and craft beer venues throughout Nelson and the wider region.

5. Where can I try locally brewed Nelson and Tasman craft beer?

Locally brewed beer can be found at a range of Nelson breweries, taprooms, pubs, bars and restaurants. The Nelson Tasman region is particularly well known for hop growing and craft brewing, making it an excellent destination for beer enthusiasts looking to discover locally produced ales, lagers, IPAs and seasonal releases.

6. What are the best dining options in Nelson for couples, families and business travellers?

Nelson has dining options to suit almost every type of traveller. Couples can enjoy relaxed restaurants and wine bars, families have plenty of casual and family-friendly choices, while corporate travellers can find excellent venues for business dinners. Ask the Admirals team for recommendations based on the style of dining, location and atmosphere you are looking for.

7. Is Admirals Motor Inn a good place to stay for a Nelson food and craft beer weekend?

Absolutely. Admirals Motor Inn offers comfortable accommodation, free on-site parking and a convenient location close to Nelson city centre. Spend your day exploring Nelson, local attractions and the wider Tasman region before enjoying the city’s restaurants, breweries and bars and returning to your comfortable room or apartment at Admirals.

8. Can Admirals Motor Inn recommend local restaurants, breweries and places to eat?

Yes. We love helping our guests discover Nelson. Ask us for recommendations for restaurants, cafés, takeaway options, pubs and local craft beer venues. Whether you’re after a quick meal, family dinner, business dinner or a relaxed evening exploring Nelson’s food and drink scene, we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction.

Admirals Motor Inn have lately partnered with some of Nelson and Tasman’s finest bars and restaurants. Please see below some of them-

The Moutere.

New Zealands Oldest Pub established in 1850. The Moutere has always been more than a place to eat and drink.  It is a meeting point.  A landmark.  A piece of living history.  A place where locals feel proud to gather, travellers feel lucky to discover, and artists, makers, growers and producers feel inspired to collaborate.

https://www.instagram.com/themoutere1850

https://www.facebook.com/themoutere1850

Contact:

The Moutere 03 543 2759

1406 Moutere Highway, Upper Moutere, Tasman

 

 

Eight Plates

Discover a fresh take on dining at Eight Plates, where globally inspired flavours, beautifully presented dishes, and a relaxed atmosphere come together in the heart of Nelson.

Designed for sharing, the menu invites you to sample a variety of creative small plates, each showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients and influences from around the world. From vibrant seafood and perfectly cooked meats to flavour-packed vegetarian options and irresistible desserts, every dish is crafted to surprise and delight.

Whether you’re catching up with friends over a selection of share plates, celebrating a special occasion, or enjoying a relaxed date night, Eight Plates offers an experience that’s as much about conversation as it is about incredible food.

FB; https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089133146871

Insta; https://www.instagram.com/eightplates.nelson

 

 

Bar Rosa 

Dark & sexy, cosy spots to sit, intimate, welcoming. Pop in for a drink and stay for hours, delicious and un-fussy food. With a fit out of dark wood and dark greens and a curvy bar this is the ultimate date night venue.

*Leave to us/ Lascia a’ Noi Menu is $80 per person

274 Hardy Street, Nelson 7010
03 922 9904
info@barrosa.co.nz

Hopgood’s & Co 

The classic that never goes out of style, very special occasions and always delivers on expectations. The perfectly executed cuisine is complemented by the elegant and refined service that is always welcoming, all topped off with an extensive wine list that will have just what you are looking for.

*5 course tasting menu is $135 per person 

Contact

Hopgood’ & Co.

284 Trafalgar Street, Nelson, 7010

Email – manager.hopgoods@gmail.com

Phone – 03 545 7191

 

Boat Shed Cafe 

Destination dining, a well loved classic, special occasions with family and friends, absolutely unbeatable view that transports you, coupled with fresh and delicious seafood cooked perfectly every time. Champagne and oysters on the deck – classic NZ cuisine with European influence.

*5 course Trust the Chef Menu is $130 per person

350 Wakefield Quay, Nelson 7010
03 546 9783
enquiry@boatshedcafe.co.nz

 

Urban

Loud and punchy, big flavours, bright colours and cocktails that are spot on. A bit cool and street with vibrant art and high tables, and the food will bowl you over (in a good way)

*Chef’s Selection sharing menu is $70 per person

278 Hardy Street, Nelson 7010
03 546 7861‍ ‍
kiaora@urbaneatery.co.nz

 

Cantina Nicola

A bit cheeky and fun, big yummy mexican flavours and fast, delicious cocktails – served with a smile. Perfect for large groups with long tables.

*4 course Leave it to us menu is $55 per person

6 Church Street, Nelson 7010
03 548 8761
manager.cantinanicola@gmail.com

 

 

Book Your Nelson Accommodation Direct

Planning a Nelson food and craft beer getaway?

Book directly with Admirals Motor Inn Nelson for comfortable accommodation, convenient parking and friendly local hospitality close to Nelson’s city centre.

Admirals Motor Inn
26 Waimea Road, Nelson
Phone: 03 548 3059
Email: stay@admiralsmotorinn.co.nz
Website: www.admiralsmotorinn.co.nz

Stay at Admirals. Explore Nelson. Eat well. Drink local.

 

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Testimonials

Best stay in Nelson!

Best stay in Nelson. Really can’t say anything bad about Admirals. Very spacious, modern, plenty of car parking, great location, clean and well equipped. And above all, very friendly and helpful staff. Would definately book at stay again at Admirals.

Brilliant

Great location. Comfortable beds, shower. spacious rooms, well equipped kitchen, private capr parking and most welcoming hosts.   Amanda from Cyprus. Booking.com Stayed August 2025

Top Notch Accommodation

I like everything about staying at the Admirals Motor Inn. Very helpful and friendly. Loved my room and how clean everything is. It’s a big A+++ and look forward to staying with them again very soon.

Tania (on booking.com)

My stay was truly exceptional

My stay at Admirals Motor Inn in Nelson was truly exceptional. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with genuine hospitality by Fraser and Kelly, whose warmth and attentiveness made all the difference. Their dedication to creating a safe, inviting, and family-friendly environment ensures that every guest, whether traveling alone or with whānau, feels… Read more “My stay was truly exceptional”

Joseph (on Expedia)

Spacious, friendly and exceptional

Spacious. Kitchen and Bathroom separate from living and sleeping area. Friendly staff. The room was as described.

Diane (on booking.com)

Exceptional warm and friendly service

Exception warm and friendly service with lovely clean comfortable accommodation. We will definitely stay again.

Sandy (on booking.com)

Exceptional

Great customer service by Fraser and the team, clean and spacious rooms and great location. My go to accommodation when visiting Nelson.

Gandolfi (on Booking.com)

Extremely comfortable and convenient. Lovely staff, very helpful. Extremely close to town only a 10 minute walk to the centre of Nelson

Extremely comfortable and convenient. Lovely staff, very helpful. Extremely close to town only a 10 minute walk to the centre of Nelson

Edward, NZ

Great Hosts. Great Location. Would definitely reccommend to all friends and family. Room was Lovely, all we needed. We will be coming back

Great Hosts. Great Location. Would definitely reccommend to all friends and family. Room was Lovely, all we needed. We will be coming back

Lynley, NZ

Spotlessly clean and rooms were serviced daily. Host was helpful and friendly. Excellent value

Spotlessly clean and rooms were serviced daily. Host was helpful and friendly. Excellent value

Lyn W, Auckland, NZ

Fabulous, Friendly and Exceptional Cleanliness. Great Staff and so Helpful

Fabulous, Friendly and Exceptional Cleanliness. Great Staff and so Helpful

Sharon, United Kingdom