Getting out and about in the Top of the South has always had its benefits – fresh air, stunning scenery and warm water greeting those who choose to spread their wings.

Now, thanks to Sport Tasman, there are more tangible rewards on offer for those who walk, cycle or swim in the region.

The Sport Tasman Explorer is a new innovation which encourages people to get active in the great outdoors. Participants accumulate points by visiting various places in the top of the south, then posting a photo of their activity on Instagram, accompanied by the hashtag #SportTasmanExplorer.

Several places to visit in Nelson-Tasman, Buller, Marlborough and Kaikoura are suggested on the Sport Tasman website, but hardy explorers can tag any location and points will be awarded.

And of course, points mean prizes. At the end of each month prizes will be handed out in a variety of categories, plus spot prizes.

The competition kicked off in April with some notable efforts.

Top of the photo ops was Zena Denton aged 14 years old from Nayland College who got particularly active in the region throughout the month and uploaded 14 entries. Her efforts earned her a Ski Rainbow Anytime Pass for the coming ski season which she chose to give to her father as thanks for his fantastic photography skills.

Other entries included Kaikoura Kayaks getting active with a group of youngsters, and holiday maker Alex Glover from Auckland enjoying the sights of Abel Tasman.

Organiser Katie Arden, events manager for Sport Tasman said local businesses had hopped on board through the provision of prizes and regular discounts for explorer participants.

Our Sport Tasman Explorer has attracted lots of support.

“Flip Out Nelson has literally jumped on board, offering $2 discount per session per person, as well as a family pass as a prize. Other local businesses include Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park, Richmond Aquatic Centre, Sport Tasman and E’stel Water,” she added.

Arden said the Explorer was a “call to action for everyone to get active and instagramming” while suggesting there would be more surprises in store, including Sport Tasman Explorer packs for youth participants.

Please see all details about the Explorer on our website - www.sporttasman.org.nz/sporttasmanexplorer

Photo Caption: Zena Denton claimed the main prize in April's Sport Tasman Explorer competition by sending in photos such as this action shot, from various parts of the region.