This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Havelock.
Havelock is a small town in the in the Pelorus Ssound of the Marlborough region that is known for green-lipped mussels. It is quaint and small but a nice stop for lunch or coffee on the way between Nelson and Blenheim or Picton. Since Havelock has the largest green-lipped mussel industry in the world, you will find a few good choices of restaurants to try the local specialty. Or you can visit Havelock in the summer for its annual Havelock Mussel and Seafood Festival, where you can have a glass of wine or beer and enjoy the food and festivities.
If you are just passing through Havelock, you could spend the morning having breakfast of a bacon butty sandwich at a local bakery. The coffee is also great and you can simply sip your cappuccino at a picnic table while people watching then wander over to the museum or flea market.
The museum is full of interesting old saws and farming tools, kitchen, and household items and even a huge bellows. This small glimpse of local history is definitely interesting and worth exploring. The flea market is next door to the museum where you can find more recent books, kitchen gadgets, clothes, and other knickknacks.
As you pass through Havelock, there is a bridge where people like to jump into the river, but be very cautious since most of the year this river is often too shallow for jumping. You can easily walk down to the river below to sit on the rocks or go for a swim, just wear bug repellent and watch out for sandflies. There are not many choices for hostels in Havelock, since it is usually just a quick stop on the way to Nelson or Blenheim, but if you want to spend the night, you will find a couple of choices.
Written by local enthusiast for Havelock hostels
Amanda Haehl
