Mapua: Wharf, Ferry and Great Taste Trail

Mapua is a destination for travellers looking to combine cycling or walking routes with maritime history and art. Māpua Wharf brings together several cultural and waterside activities; the Tasman’s Great Taste Trail and the ferry offer further specific options to help you plan. If you’re looking for hotels in Mapua, you can use these interests as a guide when planning your days.

Great Taste Trail and ferry

The Tasman’s Great Taste Trail passes through Māpua and can be enjoyed on foot or by bike. On the coastal route, the section between Richmond and Māpua is 15 kilometres long, while the route from Māpua to Motueka is 33 kilometres. The section to Motueka is therefore 18 kilometres longer. These distances help distinguish the two sections when planning your route.

Another connection crosses the Māpua Inlet between Rabbit Island and Māpua Wharf. The ferry crossing is 200 metres long and takes about seven minutes; it is designed specifically for cyclists and pedestrians. The Māpua ferry operates from late September to late May. Check operating dates before your trip if you plan to make the crossing.

Maritime history and art at Māpua Wharf

The Port Māpua Maritime Museum is housed in the original Māpua Wharf building, one of the few surviving historic working wharves in New Zealand. Photos, interactive video displays and maritime memorabilia tell the story of the wharf. The exhibition also covers the role of early Māori, regional trading and passenger ships and their cargo, as well as lighthouses, wharves, jetties and landing places in the district. A visit offers a way to explore different aspects of local maritime history.

The Coolstore Gallery showcases a curated collection of New Zealand art and design. It features work by more than 100 artists, including painters, sculptors, jewellers and carvers. A photography museum at Māpua Wharf documents the history and events that shaped the growth of the wharf. At Rare Creations, visitors can bring toys to life in the interactive area by pressing buttons, turning handles and operating dials.

Activities, food and events

There are areas at Māpua Wharf reserved exclusively for pedestrians. In summer, popular activities include swimming, fishing and jumping off the wharf. The waterfront park has an amphitheatre for public concerts. Around Easter, the Mapua Easter Fair offers local crafts, art, and artisan food and drinks. Depending on the season and your interests, you can focus on different activities.

You can enjoy fish and chips at the wharf, and shops showcase the work of local craftspeople and quality goods. Golden Bear Brewing Co. at historic Māpua Wharf is a craft brewery and restaurant serving award-winning beers and a Los Angeles-inspired Mexican menu. Menu details and awards may change.

Surroundings and getting around

Near Māpua, Playhouse Café & Theatre offers live entertainment, including live bands, stand-up comedy and theatre performances. Motueka is about a 15-minute drive from Māpua Wharf; driving time may vary depending on conditions. When planning your trip, you can weigh up the Great Taste Trail routes, time at the wharf and a visit to nearby live entertainment.

If your plans include the ferry, check its seasonal operating dates before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Anatori, Owen River, Murchison, Wakefield, Ngatimoti, Motueka, Parapara, Richmond.

For the broader travel overview: Tasman District.