Enjoy a scenic coast ride and ferry trip from Nelson to Mapua, blending adventure with food, art, and relaxation. Discover what makes this trip a local favorite!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, including families and casual riders
Wildlife
History
Mapua was once a busy fishing village and has cultivated a lively arts scene that celebrates its maritime heritage.
Conservation
The operation emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including minimized carbon emissions and respect for local ecosystems.
The Gentle Cycling Company
Enjoy a scenic coast ride and ferry trip from Nelson to Mapua, blending adventure with food, art, and relaxation. Discover what makes this trip a local favorite!
The Gentle Cycling Company is a Nelson, Nelson based operator offering bike hire, shuttle services and a range of cycling experiences across the Nelson region.
The company provides multiple bike hire durations, including 3‑hour, half‑day (4 hours), 6‑hour, full‑day, two‑day, three‑day and five‑day rentals. Riders can choose standard bicycles or electric bikes (e‑bikes); e‑bikes make hills easier and extend possible riding distances. Shuttle services include the Nelson Airport Shuttle, which carries up to 10 people and their bikes or luggage into Nelson or Richmond, and Coastal Shuttle options that transport groups up to 20 people to destinations such as Mapua, Motueka or Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park.
Available trips and experiences listed include the Rameka Track Shuttle, Mapua Shuttle with a ferry to Mapua and Rabbit Island access, Kaiteriteri bike hire options, Spooner's Tunnel Tour, Great Taste Wine and Beer tours (Gold, Silver, Bronze), Paddle & Pedal Combo, Rabbit Island Picnic Tour, Great Taste Goose Chase, Mapua Cycle & Shuttle and a variety of independent multi‑day bike hire packages. The Gentle Cycling Company offers transport of bikes and luggage and can customize shuttle pickups or group arrangements on request. Trip names and summaries reflect the experiences offered; prospective customers should contact the operator directly for current availability, group requirements and booking details.
Base Location
Nelson, Nelson
Operates from Nelson city
Bike Types
Standard & E‑bikes
Choose standard or electric bikes
Shuttle Capacity
Up to 20
Group shuttles for people and gear
Rental Durations
3 hrs–5 days
Flexible short and multi‑day hires
Secure standard or e‑bike rentals, book airport or coastal shuttles, or request a customized group transfer — check availability and book in advance.
Bring sunscreen and water
Protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated during the scenic shuttle ride.
Wear comfortable clothing
Opt for casual, breathable layers suitable for cycling and walking.
Check ferry schedule
Confirm ferry timings ahead of time to optimize your day.
Bring a camera
Capture the stunning coastline and lively Mapua streets.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure during outdoor activities.
summer
Hat or cap
Shade your face and stay cool while outdoors.
summer
Comfortable shoes
Suitable footwear for walking and light cycling.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the shuttle and walk.