3 Day Great Taste Trail Premium Cycle Tour

The ride from Nelson to Mapua is a scenic and rewarding stretch of the Great Taste Trail, covering approximately 35 km and typically taking 3 to 4.5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to soak in the views.

Leaving the vibrant city of Nelson, the trail quickly transitions to a mix of seaside boardwalks, estuary edge paths, and quiet rural roads. As you cycle past the Waimea Inlet, keep an eye out for wading birds and expansive views of the Richmond Ranges. The highlight of this section is Rabbit Island (Moturoa), where you can enjoy a beachside break before catching the bike ferry across to Mapua Wharf. With its relaxed waterfront vibe, boutique galleries, and delicious food and wine, Mapua is the perfect place to rest and refuel after a day on the trail.

Cycle from the creative buzz of Mapua to the golden sands of Kaiteriteri, one of the most visually rewarding sections of the Great Taste Trail. This journey covers approximately 43 km and takes around 4 to 6 hours, depending on how often you stop to enjoy the views—or sample local treats along the way.

Leaving Mapua, you'll glide along quiet coastal roads and estuary edges before climbing gently inland through rolling countryside and orchards. The route passes through the vibrant town of Motueka, a great place to pause for a coffee, local produce, or even a swim at the nearby beach. From there, the trail transitions into a beautifully engineered off-road section through native bush and boardwalks, culminating in a rewarding descent into Kaiteriteri, the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park. With its turquoise water, soft golden sand, and relaxed resort vibe, it's the perfect place to end your day’s ride—or stay awhile and explore further.

Cycling through the Mahana Hills and Upper Moutere sections of the Great Taste Trail offers a stunning inland escape filled with rural charm and artisan delights. The ride through the Mahana Hills covers approximately 25 km and typically takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on how often you stop at the boutique vineyards and lookouts along the way. Expect gentle hills, quiet country roads, and rewarding panoramic views across the surrounding farmland and Tasman Bay.

To extend your ride, the Upper Moutere loop adds another 10 to 15 km, bringing the total distance to 35 to 40 km, with a total cycling time of around 3.5 to 5 hours. This peaceful route takes you through one of New Zealand’s oldest rural settlements, home to the country’s oldest pub, local wineries, and working artist studios. With its relaxed pace, light traffic, and blend of nature and culture, this trail is a perfect choice for cyclists who want more than just a ride—they want an experience.