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Nelson Airport
35 km
2 hours 30 minutes
200 metres
Kia ora and welcome to one of the most accessible and soul-soothing adventures in the Top of the South. If you’ve just touched down at Nelson Airport, you don’t even need a rental car to start exploring the region’s natural beauty. Tasman's Great Taste Trail literally begins at the airport gates, offering a seamless transition from the cabin of a plane to the fresh, salt-tinged air of the Waimea Estuary.
While the entire Great Taste Trail is a massive 200-kilometre loop encompassing mountains, valleys, and coastlines, this specific 35-kilometre stretch from Nelson Airport to Māpua is the "jewel in the crown" for day-trippers. Whether you are looking for a vigorous long-distance walk or a leisurely afternoon cycle, this section is rated "easy" and is perfectly suited for families, casual explorers, and anyone with a penchant for world-class scenery and even better food.
Stepping onto the trail at the Nelson Airport trailhead, you’ll immediately notice how well-maintained the path is. This isn't a rugged, muddy bush bash; instead, you’ll find a mix of smooth, wide gravel paths and sealed cycleways that are as kind to your knees as they are to your bike tyres. Because the elevation gain is a mere 200 metres over the entire 35 kilometres, the "easy" grade is no exaggeration—it is remarkably flat, making it a fantastic option for kids and those who prefer a relaxed pace.
The journey begins with a sense of serenity as you skirt the edges of the Waimea Estuary. The trail utilizes dedicated boardwalks that lift you above the wetlands, offering a front-row seat to the ebb and flow of the tide. On a calm morning, the water acts like a mirror, reflecting the distant peaks of the Richmond Range. As you move away from the airport’s hum, the soundtrack of your walk shifts to the rhythmic lap of water against the mudflats and the distant calls of coastal birds.
As you head toward Richmond and beyond, the coastal scenery begins to blend with the region’s famous horticultural landscapes. You’ll wander past lush orchards and sprawling vineyards that seem to glow in Nelson’s famous golden light. The trail is expertly signposted, guiding you through a pleasant mix of off-road dedicated paths and quiet, leafy country lanes. The sense of space here is incredible; one moment you are on a modern boardwalk, and the next, you are surrounded by the rustic charm of the Waimea Plains.
Parking is available at various points along Tasman's Great Taste Trail. For the Nelson Airport start, public parking is available at Nelson Airport. Additionally, there are car parks at key access points such as the Richmond Aquatic Centre, the end of Sandeman Road in Richmond, Wai-iti Domain, and Māpua Wharf.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Phalacrocorax varius
This large black and white shag is a proficient underwater hunter, using its feet for propulsion, and is often seen drying its wings on coastal perches.
Best time: Year-round
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
500m away
Conveniently located at Nelson Airport, offering a range of hot drinks, snacks, and light meals for pre- or post-trail refreshments.
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Point to point
The final leg of this journey takes you across to Moturoa / Rabbit Island. This is where the terrain changes again, leading you through fragrant pine forests on soft, pine-needle-covered tracks. Eventually, the trail delivers you to the western tip of the island, where you’ll wait for the iconic Māpua Ferry to whisk you across the channel to the finish line at Māpua Wharf.
The standout feature of this trail is undoubtedly its "Great Taste" credentials. This isn’t just a trail; it’s a moving buffet. Along the way, you’ll find several opportunities to detour slightly for a real-fruit ice cream, a glass of local Sauvignon Blanc, or a platter of fresh Nelson seafood.
The Waimea Estuary Boardwalks are a structural and scenic highlight. They allow you to traverse sensitive ecological zones without disturbing the habitat, providing a sense of "walking on water." For photographers, the symmetry of the boardwalks against the rugged mountains in the background is a must-capture shot.
Moturoa / Rabbit Island is another major drawcard. It’s a massive recreational reserve that feels like a world of its own. The contrast between the dark green pine forests and the bright blue of the Tasman Bay is stunning. If you have time, take a detour to the beach side of the island—it’s a vast stretch of sand that’s perfect for a mid-trip picnic or a quick dip in the ocean to cool off.
Finally, the Māpua Ferry crossing is a short but memorable experience. It’s one of the few places in New Zealand where a ferry is an integral part of a cycle trail. Landing at Māpua Wharf feels like arriving in paradise; the area is a vibrant hub of artisan shops, galleries, and waterfront dining, making it the ultimate "reward" for your 35km effort.
Starting your journey couldn't be easier. If you are flying in, the trail is right there! For locals or those staying in town, head to Nelson Airport (3.5km from the city centre).
Since this is a point-to-point trail, you’ll need to plan your return. Many local bike hire companies offer shuttle services that can pick you up in Māpua and bring you back to the airport or Nelson city.
The Waimea Estuary is a globally significant wetland, and bird lovers will be in heaven here. Because the trail keeps you relatively quiet and elevated on boardwalks, the birds often continue their business undisturbed.
Keep your eyes peeled for the kōtuku (white heron). These elegant, slender birds are rare in many parts of New Zealand but can often be seen standing motionless in the shallows here. Even more distinctive is the kōtuku ngutupapa (royal spoonbill), with its bizarrely shaped beak and prehistoric appearance.
Common sightings include the pied shag, often seen drying its wings on old fence posts, and the friendly fantail (pīwakawaka), which will likely follow you along the forest sections of Rabbit Island, darting around to catch the insects you stir up. In the more forested areas, listen for the melodic chime of the tūī.
Pro Tip: Birdwatching is best at mid-to-high tide when the rising water pushes the birds closer to the shore and the trail.
Nelson is famous for its high sunshine hours, making Tasman's Great Taste Trail a fantastic year-round destination.
The area you are traversing is rich in history and significance. For local Māori, the Waimea Estuary (Te Tai o Aorere) has long been a vital mahinga kai (food gathering site), providing a rich source of fish and shellfish. The name Waimea itself refers to the "forgotten" or "extinct" river, a nod to the way the waters spread across the plains.
In more recent history, this region became the engine room of New Zealand’s fruit and hop industry. As you walk through the Richmond and Brightwater areas, you are seeing the legacy of generations of families who transformed this sun-drenched land into one of the most productive horticultural zones in the country. The "Great Taste" name isn't just a marketing slogan; it’s a celebration of this deep-rooted connection between the land and the table.
Once you reach Māpua, or if you need a break along the way, you are spoiled for choice.
This trail is more than just a path from A to B; it’s an invitation to slow down and soak up the very best of New Zealand life. Whether you do it for the birds, the views, or the food, the Great Taste Trail will leave you with a very good taste in your mouth.
Ardea alba modesta
A large, elegant white heron, highly revered in Māori culture as a symbol of rarity and beauty.
Best time: Year-round
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Best time: Year-round
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
3km away
A popular spot known for its excellent coffee and relaxed, surfer-vibe atmosphere, perfect for a casual stop.
3km away
Located in Tāhunanui, offering a diverse menu with a focus on local ingredients and craft beers, ideal for a more substantial meal.
4.5km away
A charming English-style country pub with a riverside setting, offering hearty pub fare, local beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for hikers.