Cycle to Tāhunanui Beach, then paddleboard or kayak along Nelson’s calm waterfront before sampling local wines and brews on the Great Taste Trail. This full-day adventure blends cycling and paddling for an unforgettable New Zealand experience.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–7 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate fitness level comfortable with cycling 15-30 km and basic paddleboarding or kayaking skills.
Wildlife
History
Nelson is among New Zealand’s earliest settled regions, with Tāhunanui Beach historically a site for Māori fishing and gathering.
Conservation
Paddle Nelson encourages sustainable practices by providing reusable gear and promoting respectful interaction with local wildlife and marine ecosystems.
Paddle Nelson
Cycle to Tāhunanui Beach, then paddleboard or kayak along Nelson’s calm waterfront before sampling local wines and brews on the Great Taste Trail. This full-day adventure blends cycling and paddling for an unforgettable New Zealand experience.
Paddle Nelson is a Nelson-based provider of paddleboarding and kayak activities serving visitors and locals in the Nelson Tasman region.
The business offers a broad selection of guided and self-guided experiences, including single kayak hire, double kayak hire, paddleboard hire, multi-day paddleboard hire (1 to 7 days), stand-up paddleboarding lessons, the Big Tahuna giant board for groups, Wahine Paddles, and a combined Paddle and Pedal Adventure. Equipment provided includes stable kayaks and Moana inflatable paddleboards designed for coastal paddling in Nelson Haven and surrounding bays.
Safety and instruction are part of many experiences: Paddleboarding lessons include paddle technique, water safety, and tailored attention in calmer morning conditions, while guided paddles and group sessions include safety briefings and route guidance. Multi-day paddleboard hire supports self-guided exploration for paddlers with prior experience, enabling visits to areas such as Golden Bay and Abel Tasman when conditions allow. Single and double kayak hires let participants explore local landmarks including Fifeshire Rock and Haulashore Island at their own pace.
Paddle Nelson’s trips combine local routes and accessible gear to support standalone hires, lessons, and group celebrations. Booking options cover short hires, lessons, and multi-day rentals with staff providing gear, safety briefings, and route suggestions suited to participant experience levels.
Location
Nelson, Nelson
Based in Nelson
All Ages
All ages
Family-friendly activities
Hire Durations
1–7 days
Multi-day paddleboard rentals
Equipment
Moana inflatable boards & kayaks
All necessary gear provided
Secure equipment, lessons, or group bookings for paddleboard hire, kayak hire, and guided paddles on Nelson’s bays.
Arrive Early for Briefing
Arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled start to complete safety briefings and gear up comfortably.
Check Weather Conditions
Paddle Nelson will cancel or reschedule if wind or water conditions are unsafe; monitor your phone and email on your booking day.
Helmet and Safety Gear Provided
Make sure to wear the helmet and buoyancy aid supplied to you for a safe ride and paddle.
Bring Water and Snacks
Carry water and light snacks for energy on the trail between paddling and cycling stops.
Cycling Helmet
Protects your head during the bike segments and is required safety gear.
Layered Clothing
Allows quick adjustments to changing weather from coastal breeze to inland sun.
all
Waterproof Jacket
Useful for wind and rain protection during off-summer months.
spring|fall|winter
Sunscreen
Vital for skin protection during prolonged exposure on water and trail.
summer