Cycle through Spooner’s Tunnel on a scenic, mostly downhill 50 km route from Kohatu to Nelson. Cross swing bridges, visit charming villages, and unwind at local breweries after an unforgettable ride.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4-6 hours including stops
Fitness Level
Suitable for those with basic cycling fitness comfortable with up to 50 km distance.
Wildlife
History
Spooner’s Tunnel was once a key railway route for transporting timber and goods before its closure and repurposing as a cycle trail.
Conservation
The Gentle Cycling Company promotes minimal impact riding and supports local conservation efforts to preserve native forest and wildlife habitats along the trail.
The Gentle Cycling Company
Cycle through Spooner’s Tunnel on a scenic, mostly downhill 50 km route from Kohatu to Nelson. Cross swing bridges, visit charming villages, and unwind at local breweries after an unforgettable ride.
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 a powerful light
The Spooner’s Tunnel is long and pitch dark; a strong headlamp or bike light is essential for safety.
Prepare for mostly downhill terrain
The ride from Kohatu to Nelson descends steadily with few uphill stretches—perfect for an easier day on the bike.
Check weather before you go
Nelson weather can shift quickly; bring rain gear and layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Plan time for food stops
Pause in Wakefield or Brightwater to sample local cafés or grab a snack; detours to breweries add a flavorful highlight.
Bike headlight
Crucial for safely passing through the long, dark Spooner’s Tunnel.
Helmet
Protects your head on varied terrain and public trails.
Layered clothing
Enables you to adjust warmth and ventilation through variable weather and tunnel conditions.
all
Water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the multi-hour ride.
all