Last updated July 2026
Jester House Playground in Tasman offers families a distinctive day out combining a whimsical children’s play area, lush gardens, and the chance to feed tame eels in the Aporo Stream. Located at 320 Aporo Road, the site features an on-site café serving lunches and treats, plus The Boot boutique accommodation. The property sits roughly a 35-minute drive west of Nelson along the Ruby Coast route. Visitors enjoy natural play elements, picnic spaces, and scenic surroundings that blend relaxation with light adventure.
Practical Information
| Address | 320 Aporo Road, Tasman, Mapua 7173 |
| Hours (Café) | Open Fridays 10am–5pm (subject to seasonal changes) |
| Entry | Playground and gardens free; café purchases recommended |
| Parking | Available on site |
| Facilities | Toilets, picnic areas, café seating |
| Contact | 03 526 6742 or lu***@************co.nz |
| Website | https://www.jesterhouse.co.nz/ |
About Jester House Playground
Jester House Playground occupies a garden setting in the Tasman township, between Nelson and Motueka. The property combines a children’s play area built with natural materials, established gardens, and a stream inhabited by long-fin eels that visitors can feed under guidance. The café operates on Fridays only, offering counter treats, lunches such as pan-fried fish, and baked goods made on site.
The site lies close to the Great Taste Trail cycle route and provides easy access to Abel Tasman National Park and other Ruby Coast attractions. Families typically combine playground time with a café meal or picnic before or after exploring nearby beaches and reserves.
The Boot, a distinctive single-bedroom B&B shaped like a giant boot, offers private accommodation on the same property for those wishing to extend their stay.
Eel Feeding Experience
Feeding the tame long-fin eels in the Aporo Stream is a signature activity at Jester House. Visitors use provided food and follow staff instructions to interact safely with the eels in their natural habitat. The experience is educational and popular with children, though it occurs only when the café is open.
Playground and Gardens
The playground features wooden structures, natural play elements, and garden spaces designed to encourage imaginative outdoor play. Paths wind through established gardens with sculptures and seating areas suitable for picnics. The setting is stroller-friendly in many sections, and parents can supervise from nearby tables or lawns.
Café and Dining
The Jester House Café serves morning coffee, counter treats, and lunch options on Fridays. The menu emphasises fresh, locally sourced ingredients with some vegan and gluten-free choices available. Outdoor seating overlooks the gardens, and picnic areas with tables are provided for those bringing their own food.
Accommodation – The Boot
The Boot B&B provides a unique overnight option on the property. The single-bedroom suite includes a queen bed, ensuite bathroom, and a Juliet balcony overlooking a courtyard and pond. Breakfast provisions are supplied, and the location offers privacy while remaining close to Nelson and Abel Tasman National Park.
What Visitors Often Say
Parents appreciate the relaxed garden setting and the novelty of feeding the eels with their children. Many describe the playground as creative and engaging for a range of ages, with plenty of space to run and explore. Reviewers frequently mention the friendly service and tasty café food as highlights of a Friday visit.
Guests staying in The Boot praise its quirky design, privacy, and convenient location for day trips. Families note that the combination of play area, café, and accommodation makes for an easy, low-stress outing or short break near Nelson.
Where to Learn More
Jester House official website: Current opening hours, menu details, and accommodation booking information.
Tasman District Council: Local area information, events, and visitor resources for the Tasman region.
TripAdvisor Jester House Café page: Recent visitor reviews and photos of the playground, eels, and café.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the playground open every day?
Access to the gardens and playground is tied to café opening hours, currently Fridays 10am–5pm.
Is there an entry fee?
No entry fee applies for the playground or gardens; purchases at the café are optional but support the site.
Can I feed the eels?
Yes, when the café is open, visitors may feed the tame eels in the stream following staff guidance.
Are dogs allowed?
Dog policies are not specified on the official site; contact the café directly to confirm current rules.
Is The Boot available year-round?
Accommodation availability should be checked directly via the Jester House website or by phone.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
Some garden paths and seating areas are relatively flat, but full accessibility details are best confirmed by contacting the operators.
Can I book the playground for events?
Private event bookings are not advertised; the site focuses on regular café and visitor access.
What is the drive time from Nelson?
The drive from central Nelson to Jester House typically takes around 35 minutes via the Coastal Highway.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.