Walkways & Cycleways

The Ruby Coast Moutere Hills area is made for cycling and walking.

The climate is mild, the sunshine is tops for New Zealand, the hills are gentle and the physical environment is attractive and diverse.

The Tasman Cycle Trail was the working name of a new trail, now known as Tasman’s Great Taste Trail that will eventually run from Nelson through Richmond to Rabbit Island and now links by ferry to Mapua and the Ruby Coast.  It will continue to Motueka, Riwaka and down the Motueka River to Tapawera. The trail will offer an easy to ride surface and gradient similar to the Otago Central Rail Trail and will cater for a wider range of cyclists (and walkers). As stages of the trail are completed it will eventually offer a choice of day rides or a multiday cycle holiday with a series of overnight stops within the region. This regional project has received construction funding under John Key’s ‘National Cycleway’, which has the aim of building a series of ‘Great Rides’ around the country to showcase areas of natural beauty and to generate economic activity through tourism.

See www.heartofbiking.org.nz for lots more information about the Trail.

The Flat Bottom Fairy ferry was launched in early October which connects bikers with Mapua Wharf and Moturoa (Rabbit Island). The summer timetable has now been released, which features both a weekday and more extended timetable for the weekend.

You just have to call either John or Paul on the mobile 027 GO FERRY (027 463 3779) to make a booking at the times on the timetable.

The first section of the trail which allows you to bike over Moturoa is now complete.

Check them out on www.facebook.com/flatbottomfairy

Here are some suggested rides and/or walks… scroll down to find out more.

Mapua to Ruby Bay Loop on the Ruby Coast

Leave from Mapua School down the track towards the beach, turn left along Old Mill Walkway and follow it along to the Chaytor Reserve at the end of Broadsea Ave, and continue to the Ruby Bay shops.  Reward yourself with an ice cream or coffee and ride or walk back to Mapua along the Coastal Highway – cycling is allowed on the footpath. Biking 35-40 minutes, walking 40-75 minutes.

For walkers: At low tide take the right turn at the end of the track from the Mapua School and walk along the seafront to Iwa Road and the Mapua Wharf. You can continue along the waterfront to Grossi Point and return to the Mapua village via Tahi Street. 90 minutes.

Somerset Cottage bike ride, Mahana on the Moutere Hills

Drive to Upper Moutere and follow the highway through the village to Gardner Valley Rd where you leave your car at the cemetery and start cycling. Turn right along Best Rd, continuing straight ahead when it becomes George Harvey Rd. Somerset Cottage was built in 1858 by George Harvey from Somerset and has been restored. Take a break at the picnic table then head on down George Harvey Rd and climb up to Old Coach Rd. Soak up the views on the ridge line and cycle along to Nuttal Rd, then take a left into Gardner Valley Road and back to your starting point. More details on this ride, and a map in Bike Tasman (see below).  60 minutes.

Find out more:

The Tasman District Council has two excellent pocket sized booklets, available from the TDC offices, public libraries and bookshops.

Bike Tasman gives descriptions and maps for 30 rides aimed at beginner to intermediate riders. There are both on and off road routes. Cost $5.00.

Walk Tasman has information and maps for 66 suggested walks across the district. Cost $8.

Mountain Biking

Local bike shops, the Nelson Mountain Bike Club and the Tracks.org.nz website have further information for more advanced rides.

Walk and Cycle services and info...

Wheelie Fantastic Cycle HireTel: 03 543 2245 www.wheeliefantastic.co.nz

We offer top quality bike and equipment hire, all delivered to your door or where you wish to start your cycle from.

Flat Bottom FairyTel: http://www.facebook.com/#!/flatbottomfairy

Cycle and scenic cruise ferry between Rabbit Island and Mapua, Nelson, South Island, New Zealand.