Tasman: Coast, trails and nature

When planning a trip to Tasman, you can choose from a range of interests: coastal towns, hiking and cycling, as well as mountain bike trails. Motueka Wharf and Memorial is a heritage-listed recreational area on the coast of Motueka; the Great Taste Trail offers sections for cyclists and walkers, and Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park has purpose-built single-track and downhill trails.

Coastal towns and natural features

Motueka Wharf and Memorial form a heritage-listed recreational area on the coast of Motueka. The site is accessed via a path lined with vegetation. Its coastal location, memorial and leafy approach give the area a different character from a walking trail alone. Before visiting, check the current condition of the site and local access rules.

One natural feature on the Abel Tasman Coast Track is Cleopatra's Pool: a natural rock pool with a moss-covered water slide. Unlike the recreational area in Motueka, the focus here is on a single natural feature along the track. If you plan to walk the track, check the latest track notices before setting out. In New Zealand, you can walk the entire Abel Tasman Coast Track in either direction; water taxis or kayaks can be used to travel between different locations. Check operators and schedules in advance.

Cycling and mountain bike trails

The Great Taste Trail includes Grade 1, 2 and 3 sections and is suitable for cyclists and walkers. Grades can vary from one section to another, so checking the specific section you have chosen is more useful for planning your trip than applying a single grade to the entire trail. Along the trail, you can enjoy panoramic views of Tasman Bay, the Waimea Estuary and the Western Ranges. There are plenty of places to stop for good food and a break; individual stops and offerings may change.

The starting point is also relevant when planning your route: the Great Taste Trail begins at Nelson Airport or Millers Acre in central Nelson.

Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park has purpose-built single-track and downhill trails. The difference from the Great Taste Trail lies in the types of trails described: grades vary by section on the Great Taste Trail, which is suitable for both cyclists and walkers; the park focuses on single-track and downhill trails. When planning, it is therefore helpful to consider whether you prefer a route with walking options and varying grades by section, or are specifically looking for mountain bike trails.

Choose a hotel to suit your trip

When considering a specific hotel offer, you can compare its stated location and listed amenities with your travel plans. If several activities are important to you, think in advance about which is the highest priority when choosing where to stay.

Discover more destinations: Tasman District, Pohara, Tasman, Kaiteriteri, Appleby, Hope, Onekaka, Stanley Brook

For the wider travel overview: New Zealand.