Rabbit Island

Rabbit Island (Moturoa) is a slice of pure Kiwi summer, a long, sandy spit jutting into Tasman Bay near Nelson. Its name hints at a quieter past, but today it's a beloved escape for families, swimmers, and kayakers, with calm, shallow waters and a pine-studded shoreline perfect for picnics and lazy afternoons. The island is actually a tombolo — connected to the mainland at low tide — so you can walk across the sandbar at certain times, but most visitors drive over the causeway and settle in for a day of simple coastal pleasures.

Highlights & What to See

• Swimming & Beach Life: The sheltered eastern beaches offer safe swimming for all ages; the western side is more exposed and popular with windsurfers and kiteboarders.
• Walking & Cycling: The Great Taste Trail runs through the island — a flat, easy cycle or walk through pine forests and along the coast, with views across to Nelson city and the Western Ranges.
• Birdwatching: Look for oystercatchers, pied stilts, and the occasional white heron around the estuary at the island's southern end.
• Picnicking & BBQs: Sheltered picnic tables and free electric barbecues dot the shoreline — bring your own food and enjoy a classic New Zealand beach day.
• Kayaking & SUP: The calm waters of the bay are ideal for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking; rentals are available nearby in Mapua.

Suggested Time to Spend

Rabbit Island is an easy half-day trip from Nelson or Motueka. Most visitors spend 2–4 hours swimming, walking, and picnicking. If you're cycling the Great Taste Trail, you'll pass through in about 30 minutes, but allow an extra hour to explore the beaches. The island is best enjoyed at low tide when the sandbar is exposed and the swimming is safest.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mapua — a charming artists' village with excellent cafes, galleries, and a weekend farmers' market, just 10 minutes south.
• Nelson City — 30 minutes north, with its world-class craft breweries, the Saturday market, and the Centre of New Zealand walk.
• Abel Tasman National Park — 45 minutes west, offering golden beaches and the famous coastal track; a great full-day adventure.
• Kaiteriteri Beach — another stunning golden-sand beach, gateway to Abel Tasman, with kayak and boat tours.

Please check official sources for current details.