2 Best Shopping in Upper South Island and the West Coast, New Zealand

Jens Hansen craftspeople have long been known for their skilled gold and silver jewelry creations. Contemporary pieces are handmade at the workshop/showroom, and many are set with precious stones or local pounamu (jade). The focus here changed when Jens crafted the precious "One Ring" of Lord of the Rings film trilogy fame. The original prototype is on display, and this is now the only place where an officially authorized replica ring can be purchased.

Nelson is a market town, and Saturday morning’s Nelson Market, in Montgomery Square, is one of the oldest in the country. It showcases the region’s wealth of artists, craftspeople, and artisan food producers. Vintage items, recyclables, and collectibles feature at Monty's Sunday Market, also in Montgomery Square. On Wednesday it’s the local foodies’ turn, selling their produce at the Nelson Farmers' Market in Morrison Square ( www.nelsonfarmersmarket.org.nz).