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Magical Mapua Self-Guided Cycle Tour

South Island

Cycle Nelson

from
AU$132
per person
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Cyclists disembarking Mapua Ferry on Magical Mapua self-guided tour

Experiences

Cycle Tours & Trails Cycle Tours & Trails Family-friendly Tours Family-friendly Tours Day Tours Day Tours

South Island

Start: Nelson
Duration: 1 day
Travel Time: 8 hours
Distance: 26 kms
Difficulty: 2

Magical Mapua: Cycle & Shuttle

This popular self-guided day tour takes you from Nelson to Mapua via scenic coastal trails, fragrant forests and golden beaches. Beginning at Tahunanui Beach or Nelson Airport, the route winds along the waterfront to Rabbit Island. Custom maps and route tips help you discover hidden cafés, viewpoints and a boutique winery along the way.

From Rabbit Island, take the included ferry across the Waimea Inlet to reach Mapua—known for its lively art scene and relaxed coastal charm. Explore artisan shops, waterfront eateries, and in summer, live music by the sea. Your day ends with a 4:30pm shuttle pickup from Mapua Wharf, returning you to Nelson with memories of a standout ride.

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Cyclists crossing bridge over Mapua Estuary on the Great Taste Trail
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Group cycling on boardwalk during Magical Mapua tour
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Cyclists on a coastal path at Rabbit Island along the Great Taste Trail to Mapua
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Sunlight streaming through pine forest on the Great Taste Trail on Rabbit Island
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Mapua Wharf on Magical Mapua self-guided cycle tour
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Cyclists disembarking Mapua Ferry on Magical Mapua self-guided tour
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People dining outside The Smokehouse during Magical Mapua tour
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Couple browsing Cools Art Gallery at Mapua Wharf in Nelson Tasman
  • Bike hire
  • Route briefing and customised maps
  • Ferry ticket (Rabbit Island to Mapua)
  • Return shuttle from Mapua Wharf (~4:30pm)
  • Self-guided coastal cycling from Nelson to Mapua
  • Scenic trails through beaches, forests, and coastline
  • Custom maps with detours to cafés, winery, and viewpoints
  • Ferry ride from Rabbit Island to Mapua (included)
  • Free time to explore Mapua’s galleries, shops, and eateries
  • More than 24 hours before departure: $50 cancellation fee* per person
  • Less than 24 hours before departure: No refund

Note: **Refunds exclude credit card or booking fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Departure Dates

Availability:

  • Daily tours from November to April
  • Limited to Saturday & Sunday from May to October

Pricing

Oct 2026 - Apr 2027

  • Trail bike: NZ$190
  • E-bike: NZ$242

This tour requires a minimum of 2 people. Child rates available, please enquire.

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