Where to Cycle in Nelson

Tasman’s Great Taste Trail

Overview
Tasman’s Great Taste Trail is a flagship cycling route in the Nelson-Tasman region. Spanning approximately 200 kilometres, it provides a leisurely ride through coastal landscapes, vineyards, orchards, and charming towns.

Sections
The trail is divided into several sections, each offering unique experiences:

• Nelson to Mapua: Ride along the Waimea Estuary, with scenic stops at Rabbit Island before taking the ferry to Mapua, a vibrant seaside village.
• Mapua to Motueka: Cycle through idyllic farmland and past artisan food producers.
• Motueka to Kaiteriteri: Enjoy gentle climbs, sweeping views, and a rewarding arrival at the golden sands of Kaiteriteri Beach.

Highlights
Cyclists can stop at wineries, local cafes, and art galleries along the way. The flat, well-maintained paths make it perfect for families and casual riders.

The Coppermine Trail

Overview
The Coppermine Trail is one of Nelson’s most iconic rides, taking you from the city centre to the alpine environment of the Dun Mountain. It’s a 43-kilometre loop, suitable for intermediate and experienced riders.

Trail Description

• Ascent: Begin on the historic Dun Mountain Railway route, steadily climbing through native forest to the Coppermine Saddle, the trail’s highest point at 878 metres.
• Descent: From the saddle, the trail winds down through Boulder Valley, with thrilling rocky sections leading back to Nelson.

Why It’s Special
The Coppermine Trail offers an exhilarating mix of history, geology, and stunning scenery. It’s New Zealand’s first purpose-built cycle trail in an alpine setting, making it a must-ride for mountain bikers.

Codgers Mountain Bike Park

Overview
Located just minutes from Nelson’s city centre, Codgers Mountain Bike Park is a hotspot for mountain biking enthusiasts, offering trails that range from beginner-friendly to expert-level challenges.

Trail Features
With a mix of flow tracks, technical descents, and jumps, the park caters to all skill levels. Some notable trails include:

• Pine Grove: A smooth, flowing trail for beginners.
• Turners: A fast and technical descent loved by advanced riders.

Facilities
The park has well-marked trails, trail maps, and regular maintenance, ensuring a great riding experience.

Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park

Overview
Located near the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park, Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park combines coastal beauty with thrilling rides. This well-maintained park offers something for every rider, from families to adrenaline junkies.

Trail Highlights

• Easy Rider: A smooth, family-friendly trail that meanders through the forest.
• Skullduggery: A more technical trail with berms, jumps, and stunning views.

Why Visit
The park’s proximity to Kaiteriteri Beach means you can enjoy a ride in the morning and relax by the water in the afternoon.

The Wairoa Gorge

Overview
The Wairoa Gorge, often referred to as the “Disneyland for mountain bikers,” is a premium mountain biking destination located about an hour from Nelson.

Features
This privately-owned trail network boasts over 70 kilometres of hand-crafted trails. With grade 3 to grade 6 trails, the Wairoa Gorge offers technical challenges, steep descents, and fast flow tracks that appeal to advanced riders.

Access
The gorge is accessible through pre-booked shuttles, ensuring a curated experience for serious riders.

Urban Cycleways

Overview
Nelson’s commitment to being a cycle-friendly city is evident in its extensive urban cycleways. These pathways connect suburbs, parks, and key attractions, making cycling a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore the city.

Key Routes

• Maitai River Walkway: A scenic path that follows the Maitai River, ideal for casual rides and family outings.
• Railway Reserve Pathway: A flat, off-road route that links several suburbs with the city centre.
• Tahunanui Pathway: A coastal trail leading to Tahunanui Beach, perfect for combining a ride with a beach visit.

Why It’s Special
Urban cycleways are well-marked, safe, and accessible, encouraging both commuting and recreational cycling.

Heaphy Track

Overview
The Heaphy Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, is also open to mountain bikers during specific seasons (usually May to September). Located in Kahurangi National Park, this trail offers a multi-day adventure for experienced cyclists.

Trail Description
The 78-kilometre track takes you through diverse landscapes, including lush rainforest, alpine tussock, and rugged coastal sections.

Why It’s Unique
The Heaphy Track combines natural beauty with a challenging ride, making it a bucket-list experience for adventurous cyclists.

Great Rides in the Nelson-Tasman Region

Beyond the trails listed above, the Nelson-Tasman region is home to several other cycling gems:

• Motueka Valley Cycleway: A quiet country road offering scenic rides through orchards and farmland.
• Rabbit Island Tracks: Flat, family-friendly trails on this idyllic island, which is part of Tasman’s Great Taste Trail.

Tips for Cycling in Nelson

1. Plan Ahead: Some trails, like the Heaphy Track and Wairoa Gorge, require advance bookings or permits.
2. Check Weather Conditions: Nelson’s weather is generally mild, but alpine trails can experience rapid changes.
3. Bring the Right Gear: Mountain bikers should carry protective equipment and tools for bike maintenance.
4. Respect Trail Etiquette: Share the trail with walkers and other cyclists, and follow posted signs.

Conclusion

Nelson is a cyclist’s dream, offering a variety of trails that cater to every level of experience. From the leisurely Tasman’s Great Taste Trail to the thrilling descents of the Coppermine Trail and Wairoa Gorge, the region showcases its natural beauty and commitment to cycling culture. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring Nelson by bike is an unforgettable way to connect with its landscapes and community.

So grab your helmet, hop on your bike, and discover why Nelson is one of New Zealand’s top cycling destinations!