Combine cycling and paddling in Nelson with The Gentle Cycling Company’s Paddle & Pedal Combo. Ride scenic trails, glide on calm bay waters, and finish with city sights in one seamless adventure.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable with light to moderate cycling and able to paddle for around an hour over calm water.
Wildlife
History
Nelson is one of New Zealand’s oldest cities, with European settlement dating back to 1841 and rich Māori heritage tied to the Ngāti Kuia iwi.
Conservation
The Gentle Cycling Company emphasizes low-impact tourism, promoting sustainable transport and working with local partners to protect Nelson’s coastal and urban ecosystems.
The Gentle Cycling Company
Combine cycling and paddling in Nelson with The Gentle Cycling Company’s Paddle & Pedal Combo. Ride scenic trails, glide on calm bay waters, and finish with city sights in one seamless adventure.
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.
Reserve your bike and paddle session early
Limited time slots for paddling fill fast, so book in advance to secure your preferred start time.
Wear layered clothing
Nelson’s weather can shift; dress in breathable layers that dry quickly after the paddle portion.
Bring a waterproof bag
Protect your phone and snacks from water during the paddle segment by using a dry bag or waterproof pouch.
Return bikes by 5pm
Bikes must be returned by 5pm to avoid additional fees and ensure smooth booking turnover.
Helmet
Safety first—helmet use is mandatory during all cycling portions.
Quick-dry athletic wear
Helps wick moisture and dries quickly after paddling.
summer
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps valuables and electronics safe during paddle activities.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protects skin during exposed cycling and paddling stretches.
summer