Is the Motueka to Kaiteriteri ride all sealed, or is there gravel?
The Corner DairyCity guide
It's not all sealed. Expect a mix of gravel, sealed cycleway and quiet country lanes with little traffic.
Nelson Questions
Nelson people helping Nelson people. Ask about any place, or answer one for a local.
Which place is it about?
Can't see it?
Questions here are answered by locals.
Type of place
Is there anywhere to fill a water bottle between Motueka and Kaiteriteri?
How much is the Mapua ferry fare for adults and kids?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Adult fares run $12 to $15 and child fares $5 to $8. Children count as 12 years and under.
Is it easy to find parking at the Rabbit Island end on a summer weekend?
How long is the Richmond to Brightwater section of the Great Taste Trail?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Richmond to Brightwater is about 10 km on the rail route. Brightwater to Wakefield is a further 8 km.
Is it easy to find parking for the day near the Nelson i-SITE start?
How long is the drive to Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park from Nelson?
The Corner DairyCity guide
It's about an hour's drive from Nelson. From Motueka it's only around 20 minutes.
Do walkers use the trails too, or is it mostly just bikes?
Is Spooners Tunnel steep or hard going on a bike?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, it's an easy ride. The tunnel is dark and chilly, so take a torch and a jumper, and the exit leads into an easy downhill run to Belgrove.
Are there toilets at either end of Spooners Tunnel, or is it best to go before you set off?
Are there any e-bike charging points on the Tapawera to Riwaka section?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, there are no charging facilities on this section, so start with enough battery for the whole ride. It includes a hill climb, so make sure the battery can handle that too.
Is it easy to leave a car in Tapawera while you ride the route?
Is there anything for the rest of the family to do near the BMX track?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, the track sits within the Tahunanui Beach recreation area, so there is swimming, beach walks and playgrounds close by for anyone not riding.
Are there lights at the track for the winter sessions when it gets dark?
Where do I park for the Cable Bay Walkway?
The Corner DairyCity guide
At the Cable Bay end there's parking at the track start, 821 Cable Bay Road. At the Glen end, park just before the Airlie Street turn-off, as there's no parking at the track start, which is about 550 m up Airlie Street.
How muddy and slippery does the track get after a few days of rain?
Are there toilets at Codgers?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at the Codgers Recreation Hub, which you enter off Tantragee Road. The hub also has parking and bike wash facilities.
How steep is the climb up from Brook Street if you're not very fit?
Can you borrow things other than books at Nellie?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, the library of things has book club sets, board games and sewing machines. You can also borrow audiobooks and use the digital resources.
Is there room to sit and study there, or does it fill up after school?
How many vehicles can park up at Wakapuaka Reserve Carpark?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Up to three self-contained vehicles. The carpark is only for certified self-contained vehicles, with a two night maximum stay.
Does anyone know if there is decent phone coverage at the Wakapuaka carpark?
What are the opening hours at the main Nelson Provincial Museum, including weekends?
The Corner DairyCity guide
It's open 10am to 5pm on weekdays and 10am to 4:30pm on weekends and public holidays. It's closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day.
Was there enough table space to spread out archive boxes and work through them?
Is there a café at the Nelson Provincial Museum?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, Sweet As Café is on site at the museum, so it's handy for a break partway through your visit.
Is it a good option on a wet day, or does it get packed with people?
Can I camp at Montgomery car park on Friday or Saturday night?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, camping at Montgomery Carpark is not allowed on Friday and Saturday nights. On the other nights, self-contained vehicles can stay up to two consecutive nights.
How noisy does Buxton car park get overnight, with the town and people out late?
What are Stoke Library's hours on Saturday and Sunday?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Stoke Library is open on Saturdays from 10am to 1pm and is closed on Sundays.
How busy do the study areas get after school, and is it easy to find a quiet spot?
How did South Street escape being demolished for a hotel?
The Corner DairyCity guide
In 1981 residents petitioned Nelson City Council and stopped a plan to buy and demolish the cottages on the west side of the street for a large hotel and motel complex.
Are there any signs or info panels along the street explaining the history of the cottages?
How many items can I borrow with a Nelson library membership?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Membership is free and lets you borrow up to 35 items. It also gives you access to e-books, audiobooks and movies.
Is there a kids' area, and does it work well for toddlers while you browse?
Does the Suter run anything for kids?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, the Suter runs art classes for children and adults, including school visits, after-school programmes and school holiday programmes.
Where's the best place to park near the Suter on a busy weekday?
What time is the Nelson toy library open?
The Corner DairyCity guide
It's open Tuesday 4pm to 5pm, Wednesday 9.30am to 10.30am and Saturday 9.30am to 11.30am.
Is it easy to find a park near the toy library on a Saturday morning?
Who planted the big old trees in the Melrose House gardens?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Percy Adams, the Nelson lawyer who owned Melrose, planted the heritage trees. The gardens cover five acres.
Is it a good place to take young kids, or is it more for adults?
How far is the Brook Sanctuary from central Nelson?
The Corner DairyCity guide
It's about 5 km from central Nelson, roughly a 10 minute drive. The Number 4 bus also runs out that way.
Is parking easy at the sanctuary on a weekend, or does the car park fill up?
Is the Nelson Classic Car Museum ticket valid all day, and can I upgrade to an annual pass?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, your ticket lasts all day. If you want to come back, you can upgrade on the day to an Annual Pass for less than the cost of two adult admissions.
Do the cars have info boards next to them, or do you need to ask staff about each one?
What is Broadgreen House actually built from?
The Corner DairyCity guide
It's built from cob, a mix of clay, dung and straw or horsehair that dries hard like concrete. Cob was a common, cheap choice for early settlers' houses in New Zealand.
Are there information panels in each room, or is it mostly the volunteers explaining things?
Can I go inside to sit quietly or light a prayer candle at Nelson Cathedral?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, the cathedral is open every day for visitors to sit quietly, pray, meditate or light a prayer candle.
Are there toilets at the cathedral, or is it best to use the ones in town?
Can I have a drink or bring wine for a picnic in Queen's Gardens?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, alcohol is banned in Queen's Gardens at all hours, so leave the wine at home. The ban applies day and night, all year.
Is it a good stop with young kids, or is there not much for them to do?
Does Isel House hold the interest of young kids, or is the park the better bet?
Is there parking at Founders Heritage Park?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there is plenty of on-site parking, including spaces for coaches.
Is there anywhere to sit and watch the kids on the pump track?
How much is entry to Natureland for a family?
The Corner DairyCity guide
A family pass for 2 adults and 2 children is $56. Adults are $21, children aged 2 to 14 are $11, and under 2s are free.
Is there much undercover at Natureland if it rains, or is it mostly outdoors?
Is there free wifi at the NMIT Library in Nelson?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, NMIT students get free Wi-Fi at the library. The building is a fully networked environment, with computer suites as well.
Is the NMIT library easy to get around with a wheelchair, and are the lifts reliable between levels?
Is the State Cinemas building in Nelson heritage listed?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, the State building on Trafalgar Street has a Heritage B Historic Places Trust listing.
Is it okay taking young kids to a daytime session at State, or does it get noisy?
Are there public toilets at Miyazu Japanese Gardens in Nelson?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at the gardens. They are tucked discreetly into the mounds on the south side of the garden.
Is it easy to find a park near the entrance off Atawhai Drive?
Is there somewhere to have a picnic at Anzac Park in Nelson?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, the park has picnic areas and open green space with walking paths. It is within easy reach of the city centre.
Are there public toilets at Anzac Park, or do you have to head into town?
Is Founders Heritage Park a good place to take kids?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, it's a popular family friendly attraction in Nelson, open seven days a week. It's a village of character buildings and gardens, so kids can wander and explore.
Is there enough to do at Founders Park on a wet day, or is most of it outdoors?
Where do I park for the Botanical Hill walk?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Park on Hardy Street East by the blue footbridge, though spaces are limited. You can also park at the Botanic Sports Field on Milton Street or at Branford Park.
Has anyone managed the track up Botanical Hill in a wheelchair? Is it too steep in places?
Is there room to park a motorhome at Higgins Heritage Park?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there's plenty of parking at the park, and it includes spaces for motorhomes.
Are the machines labelled with info panels, or do you rely on volunteers to explain them?
How big is Saxton Field?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Saxton Field is a 65-hectare park on the border of Nelson and Tasman, with sporting, events and recreation facilities spread across the site.
Is the playground near the stadium carpark fenced, or is it open to the carpark?
Which swimming holes are on the Maitai River near Branford Park?
The Corner DairyCity guide
The Maitai River has Girlies, Black, Denne's and Sunday Holes. Check water quality on the LAWA website before you swim.
Is there a shallow, gentle spot on the river where younger kids can paddle safely?
Are there public toilets at Neale Park, and are they wheelchair accessible?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, Neale Park has public toilets, but they aren't listed as accessible. The accessible toilets in this area are listed at Guppy Park and Miyazu Gardens.
Are there any picnic tables near the playground, or is it just grass to sit on?
Are there any views from the walking track at Titoki Reserve?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, the short track climbs gently through native bush to views over the surrounding area and towards the bay.
Do people ride bikes on the Titoki Reserve track, or is it just for walkers?
Can I get to the Boulder Bank by boat instead of walking in?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, you can reach the Boulder Bank by boat from Nelson, and a ferry service is available from town. Otherwise you walk in from Boulder Bank Drive, off Atawhai Drive (SH6).
How's parking at the Boulder Bank Drive end on a sunny weekend?
Where does the Grampians Walkway start from?
The Corner DairyCity guide
It starts at the uphill end of Collingwood Street in central Nelson and climbs the ridge to the transmission tower at the 390 m summit. It's about 2.5 km one way.
Is there a track at Grampians Reserve that's manageable with a pram?
Can you stay overnight near Tahunanui Beach?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park has unpowered campsites, cabins and fully self-contained motel units, so there is something for most budgets.
Is the playground fenced at all, or can kids wander off toward the beach or road?
Is there a car park at Grove Scenic Reserve?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there is a small car park and picnic area about 1 km from Clifton, on Rocklands Road.
Does the small car park fill up in summer, and is there room for campervans?
Where do you park for the Coppermine Trail?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Park on Brook St next to Codgers Track, though spaces are limited. Or carry on 800 m up Brook St and turn left straight after the bridge over The Brook for the car parks.
Has anyone done the Coppermine Trail on an e-bike? How did the battery hold up?
Are the boardwalks fenced all the way round the springs loop?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, there are unfenced boardwalks and viewing platforms. The water is cold and swift, so keep children under close supervision near it.
Are there any picnic tables near the springs, or is it just the track and car park?
Do I have to pay to enter Kahurangi National Park?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, entry to the park is free, and so is a day walk on the Heaphy Track. You only pay per person, per night to stay in the huts and campsites on the track.
Is there a decent short walk in Kahurangi that takes under an hour?
Are wasps a problem at Nelson Lakes, and when is it worst?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, wasp numbers are high, particularly between January and April. If you're allergic to stings, carry your medication, and an antihistamine is worth packing too.
Is there drinking water at Kerr Bay or should I bring my own?
Can I take my dog to Lake Rotoiti or into the Rotoiti project area?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, dogs aren't permitted at Lake Rotoiti because it's inside Nelson Lakes National Park. Dogs are allowed at Teetotal Recreation Reserve and campground.
Is there a playground near Kerr Bay or St Arnaud for the kids to burn off energy?
Is there parking at Gardens of the World, or do I park on the road?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there's ample parking on site, so you won't need to park on the road. Driving is the most practical way to get there.
Is there anywhere to have a barbecue, or is it picnics only?
Can you mountain bike up Fringed Hill?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, Fringed Hill Road is a gravel road open to walkers, trail runners and mountain bikers, so you can ride up it. Expect to share it with others on foot.
Has anyone taken primary school age kids up Fringed Hill? Did they cope with the climb?
How long is the Maitai River Walkway from end to end?
The Corner DairyCity guide
It's 8.1 km from Rutherford Park to the Maitai Motor Camp. The grade is easy.
Is there anywhere to fill a water bottle along the Maitai walkway, or should I bring my own?
Are the viewing platforms at Paddy's Knob safe with kids?
The Corner DairyCity guide
The viewing platforms have been reinforced and the safety rail has been raised, so they are safer for everyone. Still keep a close eye on little ones near the edge.
Does the natural playground suit toddlers, or is it more for bigger kids?
Is there a playground on Church Hill?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, there's no playground or sports field on the hill itself. It suits quiet recreation, with basic seating and paved areas for relaxing or having a picnic.
Are there any public toilets up at Church Hill, or is it best to go before you climb?
Are there picnic benches or seating at Corder Park?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there are picnic benches and open space, which suits family picnics and casual get-togethers.
How busy does the pump track get after school and on weekends?
Is there any quicksand danger at the base of Farewell Spit?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, quicksand shows up now and then in the flat sand pans among the dunes at the base of the spit. The beaches, marked tracks and roads are safe to travel on.
Are there any picnic tables at Triangle Flat car park or along the walks?
How long is the drive from Nelson to Kaiteriteri?
The Corner DairyCity guide
It's around an hour's drive from Nelson. Kaiteriteri is on the coast of Tasman Bay, close to the southern entrance of Abel Tasman National Park.
Are there changing rooms near the beach, or do people just use the toilets?
How long should I wait after rain before swimming at Dennes Hole?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Wait 2 to 3 days after heavy or prolonged rain before swimming. Water quality can change quickly after rain, so it's best to stay out until then.
Does Dennes Hole get much shade in the afternoon, or is it mostly full sun?
Is the path to Girlies Hole sealed, or is it rough going?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Past Nile Street the path is unsealed and undulates along the bank beside Girlies Hole, so expect rougher going. No bikes are allowed along that section.
Is there a good spot to jump in at Girlies Hole, or is it just wading and floating?
Are the currents strong in the channel near Māpua Wharf?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, the current in the Māpua Channel can be very swift. It is especially strong on ebb tides near the Leisure Park, so take care around the water there.
Do locals take their dogs for a swim near the wharf, or is it a no go?
Is Jester House café closing down soon?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, the café is closing for good after 35 years, with 20 November as its final day. That day is already fully booked.
Is the playground okay for toddlers or is it better for older kids?
Are these the only tidal saltwater baths left in New Zealand?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, Motueka is the only saltwater bath in New Zealand still refreshed by the tide. St Clair in Dunedin has been heavily modified with filtration, treatment and heating systems.
Is there any shade near the baths in the afternoon, or is it all open sun?
Is it safe to leave bags in the car at the lake car parks?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, isolated car parks are prone to theft, so don't leave valuables in your vehicle. A bag storage facility is available at the Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre in St Arnaud.
Are there showers anywhere near the lake to rinse off after a swim?
Where do I park for the Lake Rotoiti Circuit?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Park at the Kerr Bay car park in St Arnaud, which is where the circuit starts.
How bad does the Travers River crossing get after rain, and do people wait it out?
Is there parking near the lake at Rotoroa?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, Lake Rotoroa Village has parking with easy access to the lakeshore. It works well as a base for a day visit or a longer stay.
Does the lake drop off quickly or is it shallow enough for small kids to paddle?
Are there toilets at Sunday Hole in Waahi Taakaro Reserve?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, toilets are listed as a facility at the Sunday Hole site. There is also a picnic area and a BBQ area there.
Can you jump in at Sunday Hole, or is it too shallow for that?
Is there any shade at Te Pā Harakeke?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there are some shaded areas, which make it a comfortable stop for families.
Is Te Pā Harakeke fenced off from the road and car park? Wondering if little ones can wander off.
Where do I park for the Maitai Cave Track?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Use the first car park just after the Maungatapu Track turnoff, or the second one a few hundred metres further on, past the dam spillway. Both are at Maitai Dam.
Has anyone taken a pram along the flat part before the creek crossing?
Do the Heaphy Track huts provide bedding or cooking gear?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No. Huts have bunks, mattresses, heating, toilets and basic cooking facilities, but no food, cooking utensils, showers or bedding. Bring your own sleeping bag and cooking gear.
How much shade is there on the tussock downs and coastal sections on a sunny day?
How long does it take to walk up to Mt Arthur Hut?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Allow about 1 hour 30 minutes. The hut is 4.2 km from Flora car park.
Is there a different way down, or do you just go back the same way you came up?
Where can I park if the Mount Robert car park is full?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Try West Bay, where alternative parking is sometimes available. Don't leave valuables in your vehicle, as isolated car parks here are prone to theft.
Has anyone done the circuit with primary school age kids? How did they cope?
Is there parking at the start of the St Arnaud Range Track?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there is plenty of parking at the lake edge and next to the DOC campground, right by where the track starts at the eastern end of Kerr Bay.
Has anyone taken kids up to Parachute Rocks? What age coped okay with the climb?
Do I need a 4WD to get around D'Urville Island?
The Corner DairyCity guide
For the last 2 km of gravel road from Kapowai to Moawhitu, yes. It's steep, narrow and winding, and you need experience too. 4WD is recommended elsewhere on the island, where many roads are gravel.
Has anyone tried fly fishing around D'Urville, or is it all bait and heavy gear?
Is there a bridge on the track from Sabine Hut to D'Urville Hut?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, the bridge has been removed, so you wade a stream about 1 m deep at normal flow. After rain it may not be safe to cross, so don't risk it.
How easy is it to find a park at Rotoroa village in summer, and is it safe to leave a car?
Is there a dump station at the Pelorus Bridge campground?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, there's no dump station at the campground. The nearest one is at the service station in Havelock, about 18 km east along State Highway 6.
How noisy is the campground at night with State Highway 6 so close?
Where does the Great Taste Trail start in Nelson?
The Corner DairyCity guide
You can start in Nelson at the CBD (Millers Acre) or at Nelson Airport.
Are there toilets along the trail between towns, or only at cafes and in town?
Do I have to cross a stream on the Wainui Falls track, and is it safe after rain?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there's an unbridged stream crossing near the start. At normal flow you can use stepping stones, though you may get wet feet. After heavy rain it can flood and become impassable, so don't cross then.
Is it hard to get a park at the Wainui Falls car park on summer weekends?
Can a wheelchair get from the car park to the water's edge at Rabbit Island?
Is there parking at Neale Park Skatepark?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there's parking within the grounds of Neale Park. Come in via the Sovereign Street entrance to reach the skatepark.
Is there a drinking fountain near the skatepark or should I bring my own water?
Is the Motueka River protected in any way?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes. A Water Conservation Order, in force since 2004, protects the river and restricts damming or altering its flows to protect brown trout spawning.
Is the Motueka a good river for a beginner or kids learning to fish?
How much does it cost to camp at the Lake Rotoroa campsite?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Adults pay $15 a night, children aged 5 to 17 pay $7.50, and under 5s are free. Bookings aren't needed, as sites are first come, first served.
How full does the car park at Rotoroa village get on summer weekends?
How do I get to the start of the Lakeside Track from St Arnaud?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Drive west on SH63 from St Arnaud for 2 km, then turn into Mount Robert Road. Follow it for 2.8 km to the start of the Lakeside Track.
Is there a good spot near the falls to stop for lunch, or is it all wet rocks?
Can I bring my dog when I fish at Hira Reserve?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, dogs are fine at Hira Reserve as long as they stay on a lead. It's an esplanade reserve and popular swimming hole near the Hira Dairy.
Is there a toilet near Hira Reserve or along Cable Bay Road, or should I go before I leave town?
Can I camp or light a fire on the Boulder Bank?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No. Fires and camping are both banned on the Boulder Bank, so plan to fish it as a day trip.
Is there much parking at the Boulder Bank Drive end, and does it fill up at weekends?
Are there public toilets near the skate ramp at Tahunanui?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there's an accessible public toilet at the Tahunanui Beach skate rink area, so you don't need to go far from the ramp.
Do many people ride scooters at the ramp, or is it mostly skaters and BMX riders?
What facilities are there at Stephens Bay, toilets and parking?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there are toilets and car parking, plus a picnic area. A boat ramp is nearby too.
Is there any natural shade on the beach in the afternoon, or is it full sun?
How deep are the sinkholes beside the Hawkes Lookout track?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Some go down hundreds of metres, and grass and shrubs can hide them. Stay on the track at all times and keep a close eye on children.
Is there enough room to park at the lookout on a busy weekend?
Is Little Kaiteriteri much quieter than the main Kaiteriteri beach?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes. It's a serene, secluded beach just a few hundred yards from the main beach, and many people don't even realise it's there.
Is there much natural shade on the beach in the afternoon, or do you need your own?
Which organisation manages Māpua Skatepark?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Tasman District Council manages Māpua Skatepark.
Is there much shade at the skatepark in the afternoon, or does it get full sun?
Is Snowdens Bush a good stop with kids?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, it suits a family outing. It is a popular picnic and recreation spot with a short walking track of about 800 m, so little legs won't be worn out.
Can you take a bike in at Snowdens Bush or is it walking only?
Is there parking at the start of the Riuwaka Resurgence track?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, you can park right beside the start of the track. It's at the end of a 7 km signposted road off State Highway 60, which is flat and easy driving.
How busy does it get in summer, and what time of day is quietest?
Are there picnic spots in Eves Valley Scenic Reserve?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, the reserve has many picnic areas, so it works well for a lunch stop before or after the 30-minute bush walk.
Has anyone managed this walk with a pram, or are the stream crossings too awkward?
Is there a bus to Top Valley?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, there's no scheduled public transport to Top Valley. You need your own vehicle and turn off State Highway 6 just north of the Wairau River Bridge, 16 km from Blenheim.
Any steep sections on the Forks or Riverside walk, or is it mostly flat?
Is there anything I should pack for the Ōpōuri Bridle Track in late summer?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Carry water, and in late summer and autumn bring antihistamine if you're allergic to wasp stings. Light fires only in designated areas.
Has anyone taken primary school kids down it? Wondering how they coped with the steep rocky bits.
How far is Flora car park from Nelson by road?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Flora car park is 75 km from Nelson and 36 km from Motueka. Allow for a slow drive on the last stretch up Graham Valley Road.
Is there usually room to park at Flora car park on a weekend?
Is the water at the huts okay to drink straight from the tap?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No. Mt Arthur Hut's tap water is untreated, so boil it before drinking. Flora Hut has no tap and gets its water from a stream.
How full does Flora car park get on a weekend, and is there room to turn around?
Do I need a 4WD to get to the Quartz Creek start?
The Corner DairyCity guide
A 4WD is recommended for Bartletts Road, the last 5 km to Quartz Creek Flat where the track starts. Severe weather has damaged many Marlborough roads, so check road updates before you travel.
Is there much room to park at Quartz Creek Flat?
Is the tap water at Old Man Hut safe to drink straight away?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No. The tap water at Old Man Hut is not treated, so boil it before you drink it. Lake Chalice Hut takes its water from the stream.
Is there usually room at the Staircase Road car park on a long weekend, or does it fill up?
Do I need a 4WD to get to the start of the Mt Fishtail track?
The Corner DairyCity guide
A 4WD is recommended. The road is Northbank Road then Pine Valley Road to the end. Severe weather has damaged many Marlborough roads, so check the Marlborough District Council road closures before you go.
Is there much room to park at the end of Pine Valley Road, or does it fill up?
Is the water safe to drink along the Archer Track?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, not straight from a stream or tap. Boil, filter or treat any water before drinking it. It is also worth carrying your own water for the walk.
Are there any steep climbs on the Archer Track, or is it mostly rolling along the coast?
Is the stream water at Lake Chalice Hut safe to drink straight?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Treat it first. Water purity in Mount Richmond Forest Park can't be guaranteed, so boil, filter or chemically treat any water you doubt before drinking it.
How busy does Lake Chalice Hut get on weekends and school holidays?
Is the stream water safe to drink on the Chalice–Goulter Track?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Not necessarily. Water in the park may not be safe to drink, so boil, filter or chemically treat any water source you have doubts about before drinking it.
Any steep sections or big climbs between Lake Chalice and Mid Goulter Hut?
Is the road all the way to Flora car park sealed?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, the last 5.8 km up to Flora car park is unsealed, and turning a vehicle around on that stretch can be difficult.
Is there much shade on the climb, or is it exposed most of the way up?
Can I drink the water around the Piwakawaka Track?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Not untreated. Boil, filter or treat any water before you drink it. On some tracks in the area you also have to carry your own water, so check before you set off.
Is it a loop, or do you walk back the same way you came?
What should I do if a river is up when I reach a crossing?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Don't cross in heavy rain, because these rivers can rise quickly. If you're not confident, wait in a hut or your tent or emergency shelter until the river level drops.
Is it okay to leave a car at the Mt Richmond Road end for over a week?
Can I tie up my boat at the Māpua Wharf pontoon jetty?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, boats up to 10 m can use the floating pontoon jetty, but you can't berth alongside overnight.
Is the wharf easy going for a wheelchair or pram, or are the boards rough?
Do I need a 4WD to get to the Chalice car park?
The Corner DairyCity guide
A 4WD is recommended. The last 18 km is on Staircase Road. Severe weather has damaged many Marlborough roads, so check the Marlborough District Council road closures before you travel.
Is there a toilet at the Chalice car park or anywhere on the way up?
Do I need a 4WD to get to Flora car park?
The Corner DairyCity guide
A 4WD is recommended at all times of the year. Graham Valley Road climbs steeply, the last 5.8 km is unsealed, and turning a vehicle around can be difficult.
Is there much shade on the climb up from Flora car park to Mt Arthur Hut?
Is there a boat ramp near the Back Beach, or do you have to launch somewhere else?
Does the Pearse Valley Route cross private land?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, the first 2 km is through private land. No hunting is allowed there unless the landowner permits it.
Is the Pearse Valley route mostly shaded or open to the sun once you're up the valley?
How many trout can I keep from the Waimea River?
The Corner DairyCity guide
The daily bag limit is 2 fish, and there is no size limit.
Is the river easy enough for kids learning to fish, or is it better to start somewhere else?
Do I need to check the tides before walking in to Torrent Bay?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Only if you want the low tide shortcut across Torrent Bay estuary, which can be crossed within 2 hours either side of low tide. Otherwise the all-tide track goes around it.
Are dogs allowed on the side track to Cascade Falls, or is it a no go?
Do I need landowner permission to fish the Riuwaka south branch?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No, not on the public right of way stretch of the south branch. You can walk along and fish that section without asking the landowner.
Is the rivermouth track okay for a dog on a lead, or too busy on fine days?
Can I do a loop instead of walking back the same way?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes. At the Chromite Mine Track turn-off you can continue over the ridge into the Serpentine River valley and back to the car park. It is 6.2 km and about 2 hours from the turn-off.
Are there any steep climbs on the way up to Hacket Hut, or is it mostly gentle along the creek?
Can I ride the longer Moturoa loops starting from Conifer Park?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes. Conifer Park has a 2 km beginner track through the pines, and the marked Moturoa Forest Track carries on from it in the forest, so you can start there and continue onto the longer ride.
How's the parking at the Ken Beck Drive start on a sunny weekend?
When should I ask a farmer for permission to cross to the Whangamoa?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Ask in advance, not on the day you fish. Asking ahead takes the pressure off both you and the landholder.
Is there a toilet anywhere near the lower reaches, or should I go in Nelson first?
Is the Maitai fly fishing only, or can I use a spinner?
The Corner DairyCity guide
It's not fly only. You can fish a fly or a spinner both above and below the Lower Nile Street Bridge, and only child anglers may use bait below it.
Can you get a wheelchair close to the water anywhere along the Maitai?
Can I keep riding to Kaiteriteri after Motueka?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes. At Riwaka the trail splits, and you can ride a there-and-back spur to Kaiteriteri beach, the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park. The other fork heads inland.
Is there anywhere to fill up a water bottle between Māpua and Motueka?
Do I need to book a freedom camping spot in Motueka or is it first come first served?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No booking is needed. Spaces at the Motueka sites are first in, first served, so you just turn up and park in a marked space.
Is the parking at Motueka Beach Reserve level enough to sleep flat, or do you need blocks?
Is there a trail map for Silvan Forest, or can I look one up before I go?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there's a good trail map at the start of the trails. You can also find maps before you go at mtbtrailstrust.org.nz/silvan-forest.
Do you run into many walkers on the Silvan trails, or is it mostly just bikes?
Are there toilets at Kerr Bay near the boat ramp?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, the Kerr Bay campsite has toilets, including a full access shower and toilet, plus token operated hot showers. A boat launching ramp is nearby.
Is there room to park a car and trailer at Kerr Bay on a busy summer weekend?
Can I get to The Gorge from Nelson without driving myself?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, Gravity Nelson and Scottish Express run shuttles that can take you to the park. If you drive yourself, it takes about an hour from Nelson.
Has anyone taken kids to The Gorge? Is there anything suitable for younger riders?
Do I need to sign a waiver if I bring my own bike to Cable Bay?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, you sign an access waiver if you bring your own bike. You also need a day pass or a year membership to ride.
Is there anywhere to fill up water bottles once you're out on the trails?
Do I have to share the Stoke Railway Reserve path with walkers?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, it is shared with families, walkers, runners, commuters and dog walkers. Take care at peak times, leave people plenty of room when passing and use your bell.
Is it easy to find a park near the playground at the Annesbrook roundabout?
Will the council's track status page show every short closure on the walking tracks?
The Corner DairyCity guide
No. Closures under two weeks are not always listed, so follow the signs on the track, as contractors may be working on the tracks at any time.
Is there much shade on these hill walks, or is it mostly exposed on a hot afternoon?
Is there a way off the Atawhai pathway up to Atawhai Crescent?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes, there is a short link from the pathway up to Atawhai Crescent.
How busy does the Atawhai pathway get with walkers and dog owners, and when is quietest?
Will I share the Maungatapu Track with 4WDs and motorbikes?
The Corner DairyCity guide
Yes. It's a rough four wheel drive track, open to 4WD vehicles and motorbikes as well as walkers and cyclists, so expect to meet traffic on the climb and the descent.
Are there any toilets at the Maitai Dam end or along the track?
Nothing here right now.