Botanical Hill is across Maitai River from the Queens Garden. Take the Bridge Street bridge, then immediately right onto Avon Street and left onto Hardy Street. Access is near the sports field. Follow the track through pretty regenerating native bush to the top.
The hill is best known as the “Centre of New Zealand” and the monument that marks the spot. It’s not the true centre, but the views over Nelson and Maitai Valley are superb. The needle monument is cool as well.
Similar options with city views and a bit more climbing are Sharland Hill and the Grampians south of Botanical Hill.
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