Magical Mapua
Grade 1-3 (easy-intermediate)
5-41km
Mapua means ‘abundance’ in Maori and it certainly doesn’t disappoint. Situated on the Waimea Estuary right in the middle of the Tasman Bay just a 35 minute drive from Nelson City, Mapua is a magical spot to relax, enjoy fine food and drink and challenge yourself to some amazing cycling. Through client feedback, spending one night in Mapua just isn’t enough time to enjoy the ambience of this seaside village. With cafes, pubs, restaurants, wine bars and a brewery, the choice of local craft beer, wine and dining options are first class. Local favourites on the Mapua Wharf include locally sourced fish & chips and real fruit ice creams.
Situated right in the heart of the Tasman Great Taste Trail, Mapua is the perfect location to explore our amazing cycle trails in either direction. These are some of the region’s most popular day adventures with stunning scenery, wineries, breweries, history and activities.
From the Mapua Wharf, the Mapua Ferry whisks you over to Rabbit Island where the peace and quiet will give you time to clear your head. Spend as long as you want exploring the white sandy beaches and trails around the island or carry on cycling towards Richmond crossing farmland, a swing bridge and amazing boardwalks over the estuary. It pays not to forget to visit an award winning winery or brewery for lunch along the route. The best part of this ride is that it is all flat, but we can still offer you the option to take an e-bike too!
Kiwi Journeys will shuttle you to Kaiteriteri (additional cost) where you can enjoy the golden sands of Kaiteriteri beach before spending the day meandering back to Mapua.
After exiting the Kaiteriteri mountain bike park, you will enjoy a leisurely ride with many scenic attractions along the way. From Riwaka, you make your way around the coastal trail of Motueka, enjoying the variety of bird species and scenery. A recommended coffee/meal stop is ‘Toad Hall’ at the (southern) end of Motueka.
On leaving Motueka you will pass through the Riverside Community, (great café here called Riverside Café) then head up over Tasman View Road. (This section is grade 2-3 and is a steady climb). However, the spectacular views of Tasman Bay make it all worth it! Onward to the quaint village of Tasman, you are now just 8kms from Mapua.
With the rolling, picturesque countryside and stunning views of the Mount Arthur Range, this amazing day lets you experience four characteristic vineyards and some of the region’s (and the world’s) finest wines and artisans. The Moutere is also well known for its arts and crafts, riding past vineyards, hops and blueberry farms you can learn about the local history, and will also have time to stop and view the galleries at your leisure. A must stop, of course, is the oldest pub in New Zealand - ‘The Moutere Inn’.
This is an amazing day out where you experience a magical part of New Zealand and an amazing lunch – you’ll remember it forever and perfect on e-bikes!
Itinerary
Kiwi Journeys will greet you on arrival and transport you to your B&B accommodation in Mapua.
Explore the Mapua Wharf and dine in one of the fantastic restaurants, Golden Bear Brewery or enjoy amazing fish & chips while sitting at the Rimu Wine Bar.
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, take a short walk to the Kiwi Journeys bike shop on the Mapua Wharf. Here we will fit you to your bikes and supply you with all the equipment, maps and information required to have a great day. Choose from the rides above.
Meals: Breakfast
Another fun day ahead before we transport you back to the Airport or Nelson.
Kiwi Journeys are happy to work in with you if your plans or arrangements are different.
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NZD $769 per person (2 pax min)
Minimum 2 pax (Adults)
Prices based on twin/double share accommodation
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B & B Accommodation (2 nights)
All Transport to and from Nelson Airport / City
Cycle equipment which includes e-Bikes (2 days), helmet, repair kit, panniers, and trail documentation
Kiwi Journeys Drink Bottle
Unlimited Mapua Ferry crossings
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12 months of the year
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Trail transport $50 per person (one way from Mapua to Kaiteriteri)
