Cycle the stunning coastline from Nelson to Mapua, savoring two exceptional wine tastings and a ferry ride to Rabbit Island's golden sands. The Gentle Cycling Company’s Great Taste Wine - Gold blends scenic rides with fine food and wine for a memorable day out.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Basic cycling fitness needed; suitable for casual riders comfortable with 30 km on varied terrain.
Wildlife
History
Nelson’s vineyards rest on fertile soils shaped by ancient volcanic activity, with the region hosting New Zealand’s oldest vineyard, established in the 19th century.
Conservation
The cycling route and experiences promote low-impact tourism, supporting local sustainability efforts to protect coastal habitats and native flora.
The Gentle Cycling Company
Cycle the stunning coastline from Nelson to Mapua, savoring two exceptional wine tastings and a ferry ride to Rabbit Island's golden sands. The Gentle Cycling Company’s Great Taste Wine - Gold blends scenic rides with fine food and wine for a memorable day out.
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.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water bottles to stay hydrated, especially during sunny coastal stretches.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Opt for cycling shoes or sturdy sneakers for smooth pedaling and comfort over 30 km.
Protect Yourself from Sun
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to guard against strong sun exposure along open coastal sections.
Book Shuttle in Advance
Reserve the return shuttle ahead of time to ensure a seamless end to your day of cycling and tasting.
Helmet
Protect your head on mixed terrain and public roads.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during sunny stretches along the coast.
summer
Light Rain Jacket
Shield yourself from occasional showers and wind near the shore.
spring
Comfortable Cycling Gloves
Reduce hand fatigue and improve grip on the handlebars.