» Ride Itineraries

Ride Itineraries

We've put together some popular ride itineraries below to help you plan your Nelson Tasman cycling adventure.

Big Day Out

7 hours on grades 1, 2 and 3 (77 km)

Start in Kaiteriteri and cycle to Nelson or vice versa.

If you want a big scenic day out on the bike then this is the ride for you. The trail traverses spectacular scenery, from the golden beaches of the Abel Tasman to 360-degree views atop Tasman Heights. The trail takes in the townships of Riwaka, Motueka, and Mapua, so plenty of options for a break off the bike and lunch. Remember to check the Mapua ferry timetable before you set off.

Tunnel Fun

1.5 to 2 hours on grades 1 and 2 (40 km)

Start at Wai-iti Domain and cycle to Kohatu Junction passing through the historic Spooners Tunnel, a 1.4km long decommissioned rail tunnel. Spooners tunnel is dark and chilly all year round so bring an extra layer and lights. The cafe at Kohatu is a great place to stop for a coffee and a break before cycling back to your starting point. Car parking is available at Wai-iti Domain on SH6, south of Wakefield. Cycling distance to Spooners Tunnel from the carpark is 11 km.

Family Weekend

2 days on grades 1, 2 and 3 (77 km)

Start in the beautiful coastal settlement of Kaiteriteri. There are plenty of things to do with the family here, including a purpose-built MTB park or spend some time relaxing on the beach before you head off on your cycling adventure. The Great Taste Trail leaves Kaiteriteri via the MTB park and follows the estuary for some seriously scenic riding to Riwaka, stop here for a bite to eat or pedal on the mostly flat trail to Motueka. The section between Motueka and Mapua climbs up just over 100 m on Tasman Heights, you will be well rewarded with 360-degree views.

It's 18 km from the top to Mapua township where you will be spoiled for choice with accommodation and food options for your overnight stay. Next morning catch the iconic Mapua ferry to Rabbit Island and enjoy your ride around Waimea Inlet and onwards to Nelson.

Little Day Out

4 hours on grades 1, 2 and 3 (32 km)

Cycle from Kaiteriteri to Motueka (and back again). A leisurely pace allowing plenty of stops for sightseeing, eating, drinking and general relaxation. Striking vistas of Tasman Bay. Cool off at the end with a swim at Kaiteriteri beach, or relax with a cold drink at one of the waterfront cafes and eateries.

A Day in the Country

2 hours on grade 2 (35 km)

While the Nelson to Glenhope railway is long gone, the latest link of the Great Taste Trail follows in its tracks. A day in the country cycling from Norris Gully via Kohatu to Tapawera and back enables you to enjoy using some of the railway’s old bridge abutments, culverts and embankments, and there are replica signs marking locations of historic stations. You will go through picturesque farmland, past hop vines and may choose to stop at the Hidden sculpture garden, where artist David Carson lives and works. Note that 35km is the distance for a return trip.

The Norris Gully Reserve provides good parking and food can be found at the Kohatu Flat Rock Café and at Tapawera.

Wine Tasting

Maybe you want to enjoy some wine tasting amidst gorgeous scenery

Go here for ideas https://www.tastenelsonwines.nz/

Hidden Secrets

Take your Great Taste Trail adventures to the next level by:

Getting in a spin at the Belgrove windmill
Relaxing at the Raukumara and Motueka Sandspit Reserve
Flipping out at the McGazza Pump Track

See here for more detail: https://www.nzcycletrail.com/qr-code-landing-page/tasmans-great-taste-trails-hidden-secrets Or download the Great Rides App - This awesome (and free) app will help you locate this Great Ride's hidden secrets, and track your adventure using GPS (no mobile signal required). It also has maps, trail descriptions and info on trail services.

Sparkling coastline

Grade 1, Easiest Cycling

Nelson to Mapua return is a perfect outing for those wanting to 'taste' the region. This section mostly coastal and there are lots of lunch/food/drink options at Mapua. Nelson- Mapua return is 70km and Richmond-Mapua is 40 km home.

Coastal pathways and board walks take you around the beautiful, ecologically significant Waimea Inlet. It is ideally done a few hours either side of high tide for the best scenery. The Waimea Inlet is the largest enclosed estuary in the South Island and home to wading and sea birds including the bar-tailed godwit, white heron, royal spoonbill, little egret, Australasian bittern, and banded rail. Then it’s to Rabbit Island, through pine forest, out to the expansive beach front. The Māpua ferry transfers cyclists to the seaside village of Māpua, where you can indulge in lunch, a relaxing drink and gift shopping. Visit the Mapua Ferry website for information on operating hours, which change with the seasons. Note that it is not possible to travel between Rabbit Island and Māpua if you do not use the ferry.

Bus With Your Bike - Motueka to Richmond

There is a Motueka - Richmond service on a van that lets bikes travel with the passenger. This is best booked via Motueka i-site Ph: 03 528 6543. The fare is $6 per passenger one way and the bike goes for free. For the timetables and details of the route please see https://www.ntctt.org.nz

Nelson Tasman has an electric bus service with more destinations, more regular buses, and fares from just $2. Unfortunately, from November 2024 the buses no longer carry bikes.