We plan to be in Nelson early January 2013. We're hoping to catch part of the jazz festival, but can't find info on the 2013 festival on line yet. Anyone know anything? Also, we are looking for a place to stay and suggested wineries and restaurants. Prefer something quaint and under $200 US for a room (b & b?)

We are staying at Cats Pjamas in December, outside of Nelson with a rental car. It looks wonderful. We also checked out the Ambleside B&B and the hosts were very gracious.

If you like Indian food, be sure to try out Little India. I think it's on Hardy Street. We also really enjoyed The Indian Cafe on Collingwood.

We loved our accommodation in Hope, which is a shortish drive from Nelson City - Milcrest Estate.

This site says its going to be on from the 1st to 5th of January.
http://www.nelsonjazzfest.co.nz/

The jazzfest dates only came out on Friday, ThomasW was quick off the mark. Jazz in the Park on the 1 January will be a great event especially if the weather is nice. The announcement as to what bands will be playing won't come out until the beginning of November. DH is supposed to be playing in the Nelson big band on the 5th but our nephew has set his wedding date on Sunday 6th January in Christchurch!!

When in Nelson it is a must to visit the Wearable Art Museum, it truly is astounding and very unique. There is also a car museum next to it and it also is incredible. Both should have a website so check them out.