THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Cycle along Nelson’s picturesque coastline to Rabbit Island, then ferry to Mapua for local food, wine, and art. The Gentle Cycling Company combines sightseeing, tasting, and easy logistics in one seamless trip.
Cycle along Nelson’s picturesque coastline to Rabbit Island, then ferry to Mapua for local food, wine, and art. The Gentle Cycling Company combines sightseeing, tasting, and easy logistics in one seamless trip.
Book with The Gentle Cycling Company
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by The Gentle Cycling Company · Nelson, Nelson Region
Set against the vibrant backdrop of New Zealand’s Nelson Region, The Gentle Cycling Company offers an invigorating half-day journey that perfectly balances active adventure with laid-back coastal culture. Starting in Tāhunanui, a lively suburb of Nelson famed for its beach and relaxed vibe, riders pedal along gently rolling trails hugging the coastline toward Rabbit Island, a local favorite for its expansive white sand beaches formed by volcanic sands. The route showcases sweeping views of the Tasman Bay and native coastal flora including flaxes and pōhutukawa trees that burst with bright reds, marking the region’s distinct natural palette.
The adventure continues with a ferry crossing from Rabbit Island to Mapua, a charming harbor town known for its wharf-side eateries and artisan shops. Here, the trip transforms from physical exertion to indulgence—participants can sample fresh local seafood, artisanal craft beers, and vibrant wines from nearby vineyards, tasting the rich culinary culture that complements the outdoor experience. Mapua’s art galleries and studios add a cultural dimension, celebrating Nelson’s strong creative community nestled alongside its marine environment.
What sets the Mapua Cycle & Shuttle apart is its seamless integration of activities: cycling, ferry transport, and a return shuttle combine for a stress-free loop that welcomes riders of varied skill levels. This package highlights the region’s outdoor lifestyle, where nature and hospitality fuse effortlessly. The Gentle Cycling Company’s focus on thoughtful, accommodating tours ensures that visitors engage deeply with Nelson’s scenic and cultural offerings without concern for logistics.
Perfect for travelers seeking accessible, scenic ride options with the bonus of local flavor, this trip is a refreshing alternative to high-intensity mountain biking or purely urban tours. Nelson’s maritime climate supports year-round cycling with changing seasonal charms—from spring’s blossoming landscapes to summer’s warm coastal breezes. The Mapua Cycle & Shuttle is a standout way to experience the region’s unique blend of outdoor beauty and flavorful local life.
easy.
3–4 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels with basic cycling ability; mostly flat terrain.
No, the tour is designed for riders of all levels with mostly flat and accessible paths.
Yes, The Gentle Cycling Company provides well-maintained bikes and helmets for the duration of the trip.
The experience includes bike rental, ferry ticket to Mapua, and a return shuttle to Nelson.
Snacks are welcome, though Mapua offers many food and beverage options to enjoy on site.
Cycling covers approximately 12 kilometers one way along coastal trails and roads.
Tours may be rescheduled or credited if weather conditions make cycling unsafe.
Mapua grew as a small port town supporting regional trade; today its wharf is a hub for local artisans and markets.
The cycling route promotes low-impact tourism, with efforts to protect coastal habitats and support local producers.
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.
Book with The Gentle Cycling Company