Abel Tasman - Paddle & Pedal Adventure
1 Day self-guided cycle Grade 1-2 (Easy/intermediate) 43km Waka - 5km, no experience required
An Unforgettable Day on Sea and Land!
Nelson – Kaiteriteri – Mapua – Nelson
Experience the best of Nelson-Tasman in one unforgettable day! Start your adventure paddling a double-hull waka through the pristine waters, connecting with Aotearoa New Zealand’s rich ocean heritage. Then swap paddle for pedals and cruise the spectacular Great Taste Trail towards Mapua.
With Waka Abel Tasman and Kiwi Journeys, you’ll experience two iconic ways to explore this incredible region—by waka and by bike. From golden beaches and turquoise waters to lush countryside and coastal views, this is adventure, culture and scenery all rolled into one.
Two popular adventures. One epic day. Pure Nelson-Tasman.
NZD$349 per person
Highlights
Cycle the Great Taste Trail from Kaiteriteri to Mapua and enjoy panoramic views
Experience paddling a double hull waka along a golden coastline with stunning scenery
Discover Split Apple Rock and secluded beaches
Relax and enjoy the iconic Mapua Wharf with, restaurants, shops, galleries, fish & chips, wine bar, brewery and real fruit ice creams
Your Day Adventure
Morning Waka - Abel Tasman Coastline to Split Apple Rock
Your adventure begins with a scenic 90-minute shuttle from Nelson City, Tahunanui or Richmond to Kaiteriteri Beach, famous for its golden sands, turquoise waters and spectacular coastline.
Meet your experienced guides and learn about the tikanga (etiquette and protocols) of waka before climbing aboard and taking to the water.
Paddle along the stunning Abel Tasman coastline to Split Apple Rock – Toka Ngāwha, one of the region’s most iconic natural landmarks. This 3hr experience is an easy two-hour return paddle which offers spectacular scenery, breaks a beach stop with morning tea and a unique cultural experience including stories and history while paddling with others as a waka crew.
A waka taurua (double-hulled canoe) is a living expression of the journeys made by our tūpuna (ancestors) across the Pacific. As you paddle together, you'll connect with Aotearoa New Zealand’s rich ocean heritage while experiencing the power of teamwork on the water.
Afternoon Pedal the Great Taste Trail
After your morning on the water, it’s time to hop on a bike and hit the trail!
Ride at your own pace from Kaiteriteri along the stunning Great Taste Trail, passing through Riwaka, Motueka, Lower Moutere, and Tasman. This self-guided cycling route offers panoramic views, picturesque stops, local cafes, and charming rural scenery.
Your journey ends at the vibrant Mapua Wharf, where you’ll drop off your bike and have time to explore the wharf’s galleries, boutique shops, restaurants, cafes, a wine bar, and a local craft brewery.
At 5:30 PM, catch your return shuttle back to Nelson. An epic day from start to finish!
Departs: Nelson City 7.00am (YHA - 59 Rutherford street). For alternate pick-up locations please contact us to arrange. Pickups can be arranged from Tahunanui and Richmond.
Returns: Shuttle departs Mapua 5.30pm arriving Nelson City at 6.05pm
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Guided Waka tour to Split Apple Rock with Abel Tasman Waka. A 3hr experience (Paddling time - 2 hours, Experience required - none)
Light refreshment
Safety equipment, life jacket, paddle jacket, safety briefing. Bare feet is fine in the waka. Storage of extra equipment is available at the beach while on the waka tour
Cycle equipment which includes trail bike, helmet, repair kit & pannier
Souvenir map
All transport, including Nelson City to Kaiteriteri and Mapua Wharf to Nelson City
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Tip: An eBike is recommended for this 5-hour ride over varied terrain (there are hill climbs). It helps you ride comfortably, reduces fatigue, and gives you more time to enjoy Mapua Wharf before your shuttle to Nelson.
Upgrade to a trail eBike – Hardtail ($70pp)
Upgrade to a premium Cilo full suspension eBike - Standard frame ($95pp)
Upgrade to a premium Cilo full suspension eBike - Step thru frame ($95pp)
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Water bottle, sunscreen & hat
Comfortable riding clothes
Jacket
Your riding clothes are fine for waka! A wind jacket will be provided if neccesary
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7.00am - Depart YHA Nelson
8.40am - Arrive Kaiteri
8.45am - Waka check-in
12.00pm - Finish Waka experience, grab a bite to eat and walk to Waka base (10 mins)
12.20pm - Bike briefing and ride 42kms to Mapua Wharf
5.30pm - Shuttle departs Mapua wharf
6.05pm - Arrive Nelson City
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Available daily from 1st October to 30th April (except Christmas day)
Outside of the dates above please contact us to book
Inclusions, extras, and essentials
Talk to us
Have a question? Our team’s ready to help.
Call 0800 292 538