Biking
The Tasman Great Taste Trail, one of the Nga Herenga New Zealand Cycle Trail rides, offers riding on largely flat terrain, exploring the vineyards, orchards, cafés, and coastal areas from Nelson to Kaiteriteri and along the Motueka River valley. You can ride it independently or with a guide, in sections or in a multiday packages that include all accommodation, bike rental, and baggage-carrying service, with add-on options to walk or kayak in Abel Tasman National Park. Stops at cafés, wineries, craft beer breweries, beaches, orchards and art galleries you'll pass along the way are also optional, but you will be very welcome. In fact, many cycle companies incorporate tastings in their tours packages. You can even be met at the airport, your luggage swapped for a bike, and off you pedal. Check the Great Taste Trail on www.nzcycletrail.com.
The Gentle Cycling Company. One of the first companies to set up in the region offers a range of guided rides, themed rides (Great Taste Beer, Great Taste Wine, for example), independent bike hire, and multiday packages including accommodation. They provide helmets, high-visibility vests, maps, and advice to make sure you get the most from your ride. They'll shuttle you and your bike to and from any start or finish point you prefer, pick you up from Nelson city if required, and also pick up any wine or craft purchases you might be tempted to make on your ride, so you don't have to carry it on your bike. They're based at Stoke, just around the corner from McCashins Brewery and Cafe, so plan your ride to finish there and slake your thirst. 411 Nayland Rd., Stoke, Nelson, Nelson, 7010. 03/929–5652; 0800/932–453; www.gentlecycling.co.nz. Bike rental NZ$30 ½-day, NZ$45 full-day.
Trail Journeys Nelson. Bike rentals, day and multiday tour packages, and Mapua Ferry crossings (a vital link in the Great Taste Trail) are all provided by this highly experienced company. In addition to rides in the Mapua area, they also offer bike rentals from Nelson and Kaiteriteri Beach. Mapua Wharf, 10 Aranui Rd., Nelson, 7005. 03/540–3095; trailjourneysnelson.co.nz. Bike rental starts from NZ$35/3 hrs, e-bikes from NZ$30/1 hr, see website for more options and tour packages.
Wheelie Fantastic. Bike hire, single-day and multiday rides, and luxury packages are all on offer from this experienced and knowledgeable outfit. They’re based at Mapua but will deliver bikes and luggage wherever they’re needed. 8 Aranui Rd., Shed 6, Mapua Wharf, Nelson, 7005. 03/543–2255; 0800/229--253; wheeliefantastic.co.nz. Bike hire from NZ$35/3 hrs, see website for longer rentals and tour options.
