blurry placeholderCouple Sunset Mountain Biking Kaiteretere credit Henry Jaine

A bucket list riding holiday

Kaiteriteri Beach

Your guide to a bucket list riding holiday in Nelson Tasman

This is a feature story on Stuff's Upper South Island Travel Guide—words by NMTBC.

blurry placeholderEpic views back over Nelson and towards the Abel Tasman as you descend.
Epic views back over Nelson and towards the Abel Tasman as you descend.

The Nelson Tasman region combines epic mountain biking, beautiful beaches and some of the country’s best craft beer breweries.

Nelson Tasman has long been a bucket-list destination for riders "in the know," often rumoured to be steep and gnarly. While the region does have its fair share of challenging trails, there are plenty of options for riders of all levels. With a 400km trail network within 40km of Nelson’s CBD, the hardest part of your holiday might just be deciding where to ride each day.

The choice is yours. Ride one of the world’s best mountain parks at Wairoa Gorge Bike Park, where hand-built trails wind through beech forests and past stunning waterfalls. Head to Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park for fun, flowy trails and enjoy a swim afterwards at the iconic Kaiteriteri Beach. Or try the privately owned Cable Bay Mountain Bike Park, with shuttle rides and a great café.

Nelson also offers fantastic free local options worth exploring. Ride Koata Park (Codgers) and Waitarake (formerly Sharlands) straight from your hotel door, or head to Silvan and Richmond for a different experience.

You can also use Nelson as your gateway to explore the many multi-day trails in the top of the South Island, including Old Ghost Road, Heaphy, Paparoa, and the Queen Charlotte Trail. Whatever your mood and whatever the weather, there’s something to suit every rider.

Wairoa Gorge Bike Park — a fairytale playground

blurry placeholderWairoa Gorge MTB Park Nelson biking

Once a privately owned bike park, "The Gorge" is now a hot spot for shuttle hungry New Zealanders.

Situated just south of Nelson, deep in the Wairoa Valley, The Gorge boasts over 70km of world-class hand-built singletrack. Originally created by a billionaire for his private use, these trails were meticulously crafted by a team handpicked from the world’s best.

The quality of these trails is almost unimaginable, with incredible variation and a wealth of interesting natural and hand-made features. Suitable for intermediate to advanced riders, the trails range from grade 3 to grade 6, offering nearly 1,000 metres of descent on every top-to-bottom run! Each route takes about an hour to complete, including the uplift.

The park is a mix of thick native beech forest, small patches of pine plantation, and a few rocks, roots, and natural features to enjoy. There’s a wide selection of trails to suit all tastes—flowing, bermed, and smooth trails, slow techy rock trails, root-infested off-camber trails, and relaxing waterfall-lined trails.

Now owned by the Crown and managed by the Nelson Mountain Bike Club, the park offers 4x4 shuttles all day long. A highly recommended option is to book yourself (and friends) into the on-mountain accommodation. Enjoy a fire pit, BBQ, or pizza oven under the stars, then roll out in the morning to your waiting shuttle.

Why you’ll love it: A fairytale playground for mountain bikers with stunning views, beech forest, waterfalls, and the best hand-crafted trails you can imagine.

Recommended trails for first-time visitors: Starting from Irvine’s Day Lodge, head onto Devil’s Armour for a short flat pedal to connect to Benched As.

How to get there: The Gorge is an hour’s drive south of Nelson in the Wairoa Valley. You can drive yourself or catch a ride with Gravity Nelson or Scottish Express shuttles.

Price: Gorge shuttle passes are $129. Nelson Mountain Bike Club members receive a $30 discount. Simply join the club and use your membership number in the promo box to receive your discount!

Local’s tip: Stay the night and ride another day. Book a Play & Stay package.

Dream Riding in New Zealand's Privately Built Bike Park - Tom Bradshaw v The Gorge

Once a privately owned bike park, "The Gorge" is now a hot spot for shuttle hungry New Zealanders. Join Tom Bradshaw as he takes on this legendary bike park with his mates.

Kaiteriteri MTB Park — more than just a beautiful place to ride

blurry placeholderKaiteriteri MTB Park view

Nestled in the stunning Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve, the Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park is a premier destination for riders of all levels.

With its diverse trails and breathtaking scenery, it's no wonder Kaiteriteri MTB Park is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

For first-time visitors, we recommend starting with the "Easy Rider" trail. This beginner-friendly path winds through lush native bush and offers a gentle introduction to the park's terrain.

For those seeking more thrill, the "Corkscrew" trail lives up to its name, with twists and turns that lead to stunning viewpoints and connect you to Jaws—another very popular trail.

Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner, Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park is a must-visit destination in the Nelson Tasman region.

Why you’ll love it: Riders love Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park for its well-maintained trails that cater to all skill levels. The park's unique blend of native bush, challenging tracks, and scenic views offers the perfect combination of adventure and natural beauty.

How to get there: Getting to Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park is easy. Located just a short drive from Nelson, head towards Motueka and follow the signs to Kaiteriteri. The park is well-signposted, with ample parking available at the main entrance.

Price: Access to Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park is free! Donations are welcome to help maintain the trails and support the ongoing development of this fantastic community resource.

Local’s tip: Pack your swimwear and make the most of the easy access to world-renowned Kaiteriteri Beach while you’re there!

Silvan Forest & Richmond Hills

blurry placeholderSilvan Forest MTB Park by Dwayne J

Silvan Forest riders appreciate the range of grade 3/4 trails that provide a great level of consistency to build confidence while exploring.

Silvan Forest is a privately owned yet free-to-access mountain bike park, centrally located in the foothills above Richmond.

To get there, simply follow the signs from the top of Champion Road to the trailhead, where you can start on the awesome climbing track "Alpha." This track takes you all the way to the top of the forest, offering multiple route choices for descending and looping.

Why you’ll love it: Riders appreciate the consistent grade 3/4 trails, which provide a great environment for building confidence while exploring. For more advanced riders, there’s a new freestyle area and some G5 options throughout the network.

Neighbouring Silvan Forest are the Richmond Hills trails, another excellent spot for those who love fast, flowing trails and stunning views. These trails are also free to access. To get there, head to Easby Park off Marlborough Crescent. Linking to Silvan MTB Park via the forestry road network is an easy option as well.

Price: Free

Local’s tip: Stop by the coffee cart on Champion Road for a post-ride coffee and snack, or head to Eddyline Brewery for a well-deserved pint.

Koata Park (Codgers)

blurry placeholderMountain Biking in Nelson City Codgers MTB Park

Based in the heart of Nelson City, Koata Park offers both raw and techy, fast and flowy trails.

Rising to approximately 400 metres, this park offers a diverse range of trails suitable for everyone—from easy, winding grade 2 tracks to daredevil grade 5 downhill descents.

The trail network weaves around three hills that form the backdrop of the city centre, with summits offering spectacular views over Nelson. Whether you choose to take a shuttle (via Gravity Nelson) or pedal yourself, there are plenty of trail options to suit every mood and weather condition.

The Coppermine Trail is also a must-mention, being one of New Zealand’s most accessible alpine trails. It takes you gradually from the heart of Nelson through stunning beech forests to amazing rocky mountaintops. The downhill section is a blast, with stunning views and switchbacks, finishing off with a meandering river trail that takes you back to the city centre.

How to get there: The Codgers trails are just minutes from the city centre, starting from the Codger's Hub at Andrews Field off Brook Street.

Recommended trails for first-time visitors: You can’t beat the Firball trail as a great warmup. Koata Whetu and P51 are other excellent options. Once you’re warmed up, try Turners into Koata Rere jump line—it’s so nice you’ll want to do it twice. For more challenging trails, drop into Hotbox, Smasher, or DivAs on the Codgers' backside.

Price: Free, but visitors are encouraged to join the Nelson Mountain Bike Club. Membership helps support trail maintenance and advocacy for biking in the region.

Local’s tip: After all that riding, the lure of a cold beer and a bowl of hot chips is strong. Many local pubs like Two Thumb Nelson, The Vic, Eddyline, and BurgerCulture Beer House support mountain bikers and offer discounts to Nelson Mountain Bike Club members.

Waitarake Trails (Sharlands)

blurry placeholderNZMTB Rally Sharlands Trails credit Todd Couper

Situated just 10 minutes from central Nelson in the Hira Forest, the Waitarake Trails run the length of the picturesque valley.

The Waitarake Trails feature a range of easy fire road climbs and epic downhill trails. Once you reach the top, you’ll find a series of hand-built descents, including a continuous single-track route that spans 9km. For those seeking a challenge, the Aorere Trail—a grade 5 descent—is a true enduro experience guaranteed to get your heart pumping. The Waitarake area, formerly known as Sharlands, is owned by Ngāti Koata.

Waitarake offers a wide variety of hand-built trails through forestry and native plantations, featuring everything from technical single tracks and steep loamy descents to national-level DH tracks. The network is linked by forestry roads, making it a great all-weather riding area for gravel grinders.

How to get there: Located just 10 minutes from town on Maitai Valley Road.

Recommended trails for first-time visitors: Warm up with Loam Ranger or Mr Chomper, then push the limits with Keyboard Warrior and Maitai Face. Putakari and Broken Axe are also popular among expert local riders.

Price: Free, but visitors are encouraged to join the Nelson Mountain Bike Club. Membership helps support trail maintenance and biking advocacy in the region.

Local’s tip: After your ride, enjoy a refreshing swim in the Maitai River. Sunday Hole and Black Hole are favourite local swimming spots.

Join the Nelson Mountain Bike Club

blurry placeholderNelson Mountain Bike Club crew

The Nelson Mountain Biking Club has more than 3,000 members who enjoy riding and also get loads of club discounts from local companies.

Mountain biking is ingrained in the DNA of locals, with the Nelson Mountain Bike Club (NMTBC) boasting over 3,000 members. Visiting riders are encouraged to join the club, as all membership fees go directly towards making Nelson an even better place to ride.

As a member, you’ll enjoy a range of discounts from local companies, saving you money on everything from bike parts to food, beer, rides, and shuttles—you can easily recoup your membership fees.

Nelson MTB upcoming events

Book an unforgettable riding experience

blurry placeholderHeli-Bike with Helicopters Nelson

Heli-Biking with Helicopters Nelson - Top of the South

The ultimate kiwi adventure starts right here. Our range of helicopter bike tours caters for all ages and abilities, from family friendly through to hard-core expert.
from NZ$250
Silver Partner 
blurry placeholderThe gorgeous colours of Awaroa - the people's beach at Abel Tasman

Scenic Flights from Nelson Airport - Golden Bay Air

Take a Golden Bay Air scenic flight from Nelson Airport. Outstanding natural landscapes in every direction from towering mountains, tranquil lakes, golden beaches, sounds, dramatic coasts and Farewell Spit - it's hard to choose.
from NZ$499
 
blurry placeholderRiding with mates.

The Gorge Mountain Bike Park - Gibbs Lodge Play & Stay

Ride all day at the Gorge, and then stay at Gibbs Lodge.
from NZ$217
 
blurry placeholderThe Alpine wonderlands of the Cobb Valley. Nelson

Scottish Express Adventure Transport

We transport people safely into the the great outdoors for amazing adventures by offering set packages, custom transport options, monthly per person specials and helping with adventure planning and accommodation.
from NZ$20
 

Bike-friendly places to stay

blurry placeholderSuperior Beachfront Apartment.
Deals Available

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 
blurry placeholderThe classic Kiwi holiday awaits at Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park

Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park - Campground

Beside the beach camping, just 5km from downtown Nelson. From tents to campervans, 600 campsites spread across 54 acres of parkland. Four-legged guests are welcome in a dedicated pet-friendly zone, from 1 February to 30 November each year.
from NZ$26
Silver Partner 
blurry placeholderThe crew at Gibbs Lodge.

The Gorge Mountain Bike Park - Gibbs Lodge

Perched at 1000 metres above sea level, nestled in a native forest, you are in your own world. Gibbs Lodge is not your average mountain hut.
from NZ$799
 

Après-bike must-dos

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Base Café

Located on the premises of Cable Bay Adventure Park, only 15 minutes from Nelson, and is set in a nice rural setting.
Silver Partner 
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Eddyline Pizzeria & Brewpub

Eddyline Pizzeria & Brewpub is a family-friendly, unpretentious, and casual brewpub renowned for serving wood-fired pizzas and fine craft beers brewed just down the road.
 
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The Vic Public House

The Vic Public House is a lively, historic pub in the heart of Nelson. It offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
 
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Two Thumb Nelson

Craft beer haven and local trail dog favourite.
 

Fuel your ride

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Atom Café

Nestled within the historic Rutherford Hotel Nelson, this local gem offers freshly pulled coffee and French-baked goods.
Gold Partner 
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Base Café

Located on the premises of Cable Bay Adventure Park, only 15 minutes from Nelson, and is set in a nice rural setting.
Silver Partner 
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The Suter Café

Nestled in the heart of Nelson in The Suter Art Gallery building beside the stunning Queen’s Gardens, The Suter Café is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
 
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River Kitchen

Situated on the banks of the Maitai River, in the heart of beautiful Nelson's city centre, you can sit back and relax away from the hustle and bustle. Enjoy our terrace in the sun or find a cosy chair inside.
 
blurry placeholderJoe and Katy take in the last rays of the day at the very top of Koata Park (Firball Skid).

Pinkbike's destination showcase

Pinkbike's destination showcase: Nelson, New Zealand.
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