Cathedral Tour and Bell Ringing

This is an exclusive experience for a group of up to 6 people. You will visit places that visitors normally cannot get to, the bell tower, the gallery, the crypt. You can try on a robe, see where processional crosses and the Bishop’s staff, are stored, sit in the Bishop’s chair (called a cathedra) and hear a little history of the flags on the cathedral wall – at least one is World War 1 vintage.

You will be invited to have a turn ringing the bells after a demonstration by a bellringer. The bells are technically chimes but this means that one person can ring all 8 bells by pulling ropes towards them.

Dean (Rev Dr Graham O’Brien) will lead the tour, depending on the time you opt to go. He is very approachable and informative. You will also have morning tea and a chance to chat with him about any of your questions.

Tug Boat/Pilot Boat Experience

Try the Port Nelson Tug Boat Experience - A Rare, Behind-the-Scenes Adventure! Step into the heart of the action with an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience aboard one of Port Nelson’s powerful tug boats.

This exclusive package for four people offers a truly unique perspective of the port in operation. Split into pairs, you’ll board two working tugboats and take part in the real-time manoeuvring of a vessel as it arrives or departs the harbour.

See Port Nelson from a vantage point few ever get to experience.

Whether you’re a maritime enthusiast or simply looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, this is an opportunity you won’t forget!

Bridge lessons

Have you always wanted to learn to play bridge but don’t want to start in a public setting? Or would you like to get better at whatever level you are at?

Tony Hinkley, Nelson’s Life Master and most experienced bridge tutor, is offering you this chance with lessons be held in the private home of the winning bidder

Behind the Scenes Experience

An intimate, one-off behind-the-scenes experience with one of the Gallery’s most significant long-term lenders, known as Koha Trust. Guests will be invited into a rare moment as this generous and quietly influential collector walks through their remarkable collection of contemporary artworks, sharing personal insights, stories, and the thinking behind each piece. Held just prior to the works being carefully returned to private storage, this is a fleeting opportunity to see the collection in situ—up close, unfiltered, and full of character. Expect a relaxed, engaging atmosphere with plenty of insight, intrigue, and the kind of access money can’t usually buy

Bird watching

This is an exciting opportunity for a group of up to six bird lovers. You are offered a half day's guided bird watching tour by one of Nelson’s respected ornithologists, Peter Gaze.

You will have access to an excellent bird watching spot that most Nelsonians are excluded from, the Council managed wetlands. Another possibility is a visit to the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary

Refreshments, guidebook and optics are provided for the lucky group. All details are subject to the time of year and the winner's preferences.