Isel Park — Attraction in Nelson

Isel House itself is a modest house and not much to write about. The gardens are a different story. The original owners had the foresight to plant some wonderful trees which have grown into fine specimen trees obpver the last century and a half. Imsusoect some of them are nearing the end of their natural life which is a shame. Go in Spring and enjoy the wonderful azaleas and Rhododendrons. There are two spectacular Magnolias one with blooms as big as dinner plates. There’s a coffee shop at the back of the house and a weekly market in the evenings where you can get...

This is a nice, small park. There is some good history here, the park is named after the house which in turn is named for a town in Cumbria, England. There are some lovely large trees, and a bit of seating scattered around the park. Perfect place to sit and eat your fish and chips as it is quite sheltered. You can also walk your dog here, and there is a large field south of the park if you like to take your doggy for a bit of a run or to chase a ball. Be wary as some of the pine tree branches have been known to fall...

Isel Park is one of the older places in NZ. The trees are especially interesting, many of them from the 1850s, making them over 170 years old. What does a pine tree look like after 170 years? Only one way to find out. Our pinus radiata common name is Monterey Pine, sooo much nicer name! Many different species, very large trees including lots not often grow in NZ. The storm damage from a few years ago can be seen, but has been beautifully addressed. Must have been tricky when the trees are so tall. Spectacular if you...