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Tasman's Great Taste Trail

Discover the flavours of Tasman’s Great Taste Trail

Drink in the scenery and Chardonnay along Tasman's Great Taste Trail. Savour a relaxed journey, meandering along a gleaming coastline and through charming countryside.

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Tasman's Great Taste Trail
blurry placeholderBiking Motueka River West Bank Road Great Taste Trail by Virginia Woolf

1-4 days | 200km | Grade 1-3

Highlights

Coastal, mountain and rural scenery
Beaches, swimming and picnic spots
Vineyards, cafés and galleries

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Discover Tasman's Great Taste Trail

This ample, scenic loop provides a delightful sampling of the Nelson Tasman region. Tasman’s Great Taste Trail combines urban and rural landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, all set against stunning scenery and featuring numerous visitor attractions.

Embark on the entire trail, staying overnight in charming accommodations, or opt for day rides that range from leisurely to adventurous.

As one of New Zealand’s Ngā Haerenga Great Rides, Tasman's Great Taste Trail offers an abundance of easy cycling, making it a fantastic way to experience this treasured holiday destination.

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Ride experience

Tasman’s Great Taste Trail offers almost entirely off-road cycling between Nelson, Motueka, Wakefield, and several smaller settlements.

Loved by both visitors and locals, the trail provides unforgettable day rides showcasing our region’s must-see highlights. Follow the coastline to the fragrant pine forest and sandy beaches of Moturoa/Rabbit Island, where you can enjoy picnic spots and swimming. Unwind in Māpua with its artistic shops, waterside cafés, and brew bar. Or, cycle through fruit orchards and hop gardens on your way to the golden sands of Kaiteriteri Beach, the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park.

The inland segments of the trail pass through Tasman’s wineries and charming rural villages. One section follows a scenic old railway line into tranquil foothills and forest, including the remarkable Spooners Tunnel. The trail also crosses the picturesque Motueka Valley, where you can immerse yourself in nature amidst stunning vistas of mountains, valleys, and crystal-clear rivers.

You can also detour into the delightful Moutere Valley, home to New Zealand’s oldest pub.

Book a tour

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The Great Taste Trio

The pleasure seeker's triathlon: just enough activity to justify indulging in the region's food and wine. Bike Tasman's Great Taste Trail, then lodge-to-lodge walking, kayaking or cruising Abel Tasman National Park.
from NZ$2720
Gold Partner 
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Wheelie Fantastic Cycle Tours

We offer a range of day rides and multi-day tours on The Great Taste Trail and the surrounding area. We specialise in luxury and bespoke experiences and offer both guided and self-guided tours.
from NZ$135
Silver Partner 
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Bike the Great Taste Trail

Experience the beauty and flavours of the Nelson Tasman region with a “peace of mind” cycling holiday. Choose from our selection of single and multi day tours based upon the Great Taste Trail and surrounding area.
from NZ$60
Silver Partner 
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Nelson Cycle Hire and Tours - Moutere Ebike Wine Tour

On The Moutere Hills Ebike Wine and Food Spectacular one day self-guided tour you will cycle the scenic coastal wetland section of the Great Taste Trail before heading out into the rolling green hills of the Moutere to sample the wines of the region.
from NZ$190
Silver Partner 

Drink in the Chardonnay

Fuel your ride along Tasman's Great Taste Trail.

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The Jellyfish

Located on the water's edge at Māpua Wharf, The Jellyfish boasts a large north-facing deck that offers uninterrupted views of the water and surrounding wharf landscape.
Gold Partner 
blurry placeholderTides Hotel by the Matai River.

Tides Bar & Eatery

Set along the banks of the Maitai River, Tides Bar & Eatery is open all day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, available from 6.45 am to 8.30 pm daily.
Gold Partner 
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TOAD Hall Café & Store

Located in Motueka, TOAD Hall is a popular café known for its fresh, locally sourced food, delicious coffee, and cozy garden area. It's a favourite spot for both locals and visitors to relax and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere.
 
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Harvest Kitchen

Harvest Kitchen is a Winery Restaurant and function venue located in the beautiful Seifried Estate Winery in tranquil Appleby. Offering relaxed indoor and outdoor dining in the heart of the vineyard.
 

Stay near the trails

blurry placeholderSuperior Beachfront Apartment.

Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve Apartments

We are famous for golden beaches and crystal clear water, but Kaiteriteri has so much more, from mountain bike trails, world-class food & wine & national parks including the Abel Tasman within 1 hour - Kaiteriteri is a destination beyond the beach.
from NZ$199
Gold Partner 
blurry placeholderRutherford Hotel Nelson

Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel

Nestled in the heart of Nelson, Rutherford Hotel is the perfect hotel for business or leisure travellers seeking world-class service, exceptional facilities and comfort. Enjoy Nelson's scenic attractions and vibrant culture right at your doorstep.
from NZ$195
Gold Partner 
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Tides Hotel

Nelson’s central-city hotel, conference centre, restaurant and bar – right beside the river and just a few minutes walk from Nelson’s main shopping precinct. Welcome to one of Nelson’s most stylish & contemporary local hotels. We are proudly local.
from NZ$165
Gold Partner 
blurry placeholderPihopa Retreat

Pihopa Retreat

Six luxurious suites set in a park like setting provide a very comfortable home away from home. Large spacious villas, each with a bedroom and lounge area to relax in and a balcony to soak up the views from all within 5 minutes from central Nelson.
from NZ$1550
Silver Partner