Tasman’s Great Taste Trail starts at the Nelson Airport or the Nelson i-SITE and offers panoramic coastal and mountain views over Tasman Bay, Waimea Estuary and the Western Ranges, with many stops for fine food and relaxation.
After leaving Richmond, riders pass over boardwalks along the edge of the Waimea Estuary, home to a range of internationally significant bird species, including the white heron and royal spoonbill.
From here the trail crosses to Rabbit Island, where riders can take a boat trip to the Mapua wharf and enjoy cottage-industry shops, cafés and restaurants.
From Mapua the route leads via Tasman and Harley Roads to Motueka, which hosts award-winning wineries; then on to Kaiteriteri, the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park.
The Motueka Valley section of the trail from Riwaka goes to Woodstock on country roads along the Motueka River’s west bank. The picturesque landscape is one of rivers and rolling hills with a gorgeous backdrop of forest and mountains.
From Woodstock, a Grade 3 route heads over Dovedale Hill to Wakefield on an unsealed undulating country road that climbs up to 300m. This route is temporary and will be replaced with a flatter route via Tapawera and Kohatu Junction in the future.
From Wakefield, the trail returns to Nelson on purpose-built cycle paths and lanes and takes riders through vineyards and cafés, with various accommodation options. The full loop is 175km. From Wakefield, a 26km return side trip can be taken to historic Spooners Tunnel.
MAPUA FLAVOURS
Known for its aromatic smoked seafood, Mapua is an essential stop for any food-lover. The waterfront cafés and fine-dining restaurants offer superb views to complement the great cuisine.
ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK
This may be New Zealand’s smallest national park (22,530ha), but it’s huge on exquisite natural features. When you’re unwinding on a stretch of golden sand here you could be forgiven for thinking you’re on a tropical island.
If kayaking had a home in New Zealand it would undoubtedly be here… you can
spend your days exploring the beautiful bays and coves by yourself or with a guide. You can also charter a yacht, swim with seals, paddle a sea kayak or go skydiving.
Water taxis to the park are available from Kaiteriteri and Marahau. Road access is via Kaiteriteri and then Marahau.
Be Prepared
MOBILE PHONE COVERAGE: Available throughout the trail.
DRINKING WATER: Water can be purchased at shops at each township along the trail. Some drinking water is also available at reserves such as on Rabbit Island. The longest distance without water supply is from Richmond to Rabbit Island (15km).
Weather Info
The Nelson Tasman region is blessed with a mild mediterranean climate and often boasts the highest annual sunshine hours in New Zealand - perfect for exploring the region's cycle trails! Even in winter the region enjoys many clear sunny days for riding.
During summer (December to February) temperatures vary from 13 ̊ C to 22 ̊ C
During winter (June to August) temperatures vary from 3 ̊ C to 13 ̊ C
January and February are the hottest months of the year and July is generally the coldest.