Tasman Great Taste Trail

Cycle through a landscape of sun-drenched orchards, craft breweries, and golden-sand beaches on the Tasman Great Taste Trail, a 174km loop that's as much a culinary journey as a cycling adventure. Winding through the Nelson Tasman region, this mostly off-road trail connects the vibrant arts hub of Nelson with the sleepy seaside village of Kaiteriteri, taking you past vineyards, hop gardens, and artisan food producers. With the crisp scent of hops in the air and the promise of fresh oysters at a waterfront café, every pedal stroke rewards you with another taste of New Zealand's sunniest region.

Highlights & What to See

• Nelson: Start in the 'Sunshine Capital' – explore the Saturday market, craft breweries, and the World of WearableArt museum.
• Mapua Wharf: A revitalised port with galleries, a smokehouse, and the famous Jellyfish ice cream – stop for a flat white and watch the yachts.
• Kaiteriteri Beach: Golden sand and turquoise water; a perfect spot for a swim or kayak before heading into Abel Tasman National Park.
• Moutere Valley Wineries: Pedal through rolling hills to cellar doors like Neudorf Vineyards and Moutere Hills – try the aromatic Rieslings.
• Motueka: A relaxed town with a Sunday market, craft shops, and the gateway to the Abel Tasman Coast Track.
• Seaside riding through Rabbit Island: A pine-shaded coastal stretch with views across Tasman Bay – ideal for a picnic.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most cyclists take 2–3 days to complete the full loop, allowing time for detours to wineries and beach stops. If you're short on time, the section from Nelson to Kaiteriteri via Mapua makes a fantastic day ride (about 60km). For a leisurely experience, split the trail into three days: Nelson to Mapua, Mapua to Kaiteriteri, and back via Motueka. Many hire e-bikes to tackle the gentle hills with ease.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Abel Tasman National Park: A short drive from Kaiteriteri – take a water taxi to the park's golden beaches and walk the coastal track.
• Nelson Lakes National Park: Head south for alpine lakes, beech forests, and tramping trails – a contrast to the coastal cycling.
• Marlborough Wine Country: Just over the hill via the Queen Charlotte Drive – famous for Sauvignon Blanc, with cycle trails through the Wairau Valley.
• Farewell Spit & Wharariki Beach: A day trip north to the wild west coast – seal colonies, sand dunes, and the iconic archway rocks.
• Kahurangi National Park: New Zealand's second-largest park, offering rugged bushwalks and the Heaphy Track for multi-day trampers.

Please check official sources for current details.