The Nelson Tasman Region
At the top of New Zealand’s South Island, Nelson Tasman is a region of golden beaches, lush native forests, and vibrant coastal towns. With three national parks, a thriving arts scene, and award-winning food and wine, it’s perfect for outdoor adventures or laid-back escapes. Whether hiking, kayaking, or simply relaxing, Nelson Tasman has so much to offer and the Apple Pickers’ Cottages are located right in the heart of the region.
Abel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National Park is known for its golden beaches, clear waters, and coastal walking tracks. It's a popular spot for hiking, kayaking, and boat trips, with easy access to bays, native bush, and wildlife. The mild climate makes it ideal to visit year-round.
The best way to get to the park is via a 40 minute drive from the Apple Pickers’ Cottages to Marahau, or a shorter 30 minute drive to Kaiteriteri Beach where many of the boat operators depart from.
Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures, Aqua Taxi, Wilson’s Abel Tasman, Abel Tasman Sea Shuttles and Abel Tasman Charters all service the park with a range of options to suit your needs.
If you are planning on kayaking the Abel Tasman National Park, Abel Tasman Kayaks and Kahu Kayaks both offer a range of kayak services, from hire to guided trips through the park.
Credit: Abel Tasman Sea Shuttle
Credit: NelsonTasman.nz
Credit: Kaiteriteri Kayaks
Māpua Village & Wharf
Māpua is a small coastal village in the Nelson Tasman region, located between Nelson and Motueka. Māpua Wharf is a relaxed waterfront spot in the village with a craft brewery, wine bar, restaurants and galleries. It’s a popular stop on the Great Taste Trail, with easy access to Rabbit Island by ferry. Whether you’re after a meal, a swim, or a place to sit by the water, Māpua Wharf is a great place to take a break and explore. It’s a short 5 minute drive from the Apple Pickers’ Cottages. You can find what’s on offer at the Mapua Wharf here.
The village is near walking and cycling trails, beaches, and vineyards.
Credit: NelsonTasman.nz
Cycling & Mountain biking
The Nelson Tasman region is a top destination for cycling and mountain biking, offering a mix of coastal paths, rural backroads, and forested tracks. With routes suited to all skill levels, it’s ideal for everything from casual scenic rides to challenging off-road adventures. There are several cycle tour operators in the region, including Wheelie Fantastic, Kiwi Journeys Mapua and The Gentle Cycling Company.
Two of our favourite trails are:
The Great Taste Trail: A scenic cycling route linking Nelson, Richmond, Māpua, Motueka, and Kaiteriteri. Suitable for all levels, it winds through coastlines, vineyards, and rural landscapes, with plenty of food and wine stops. Highlights include the Rabbit Island ferry and waterfront stretches near Māpua.
The Kaiteriteri Bike Park: Just behind Kaiteriteri Beach, this park offers well-maintained trails for all skill levels. Surrounded by native bush and ocean views, and connects directly to the Great Taste Trail.
Credit: Virginia Woolf Photography
Golf
The Nelson Tasman region offers several quality golf courses set in scenic surroundings, catering to players of all levels. Nearest to the Apple Pickers’ Cottages is the Tasman Golf club at Kina Cliffs, about a 10 minute drive away. You also have the choice of visiting Greenacres Gold Club, Motueka Golf Club and Nelson Golf Club, all within 30 minutes drive.
Credit: NelsonTasman.nz & @barekiwi
Vineyards and Breweries
Nelson Tasman is home to a diverse range of vineyards, craft breweries, and hop farms, all thriving in the region’s sunny climate and fertile soils. The area produces an impressive mix of wine varieties—especially Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and aromatic whites. Notable cellar doors and tasting rooms near the Apple Pickers’ Cottages include Neudorf Vineyards, Gravity cellars and Moutere Hills.
Tasman is a key hop-growing region known for its unique hop varieties. You can find a list of craft beer brewers in the Nelson Tasman region here.
Credit: NelsonTasman.nz
Local Markets
Held every Saturday from 8am to 1pm in Montgomery Square, this market is a long-standing local tradition. It features over 100 stalls offering fresh produce, artisan foods, handmade crafts, jewellery, and artwork. Visitors can enjoy live music and a variety of food carts.
Located at Decks Reserve in central Motueka, the Sunday market operates from 8am to 1pm year-round. It combines elements of a farmers market, craft market, and second-hand market, offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, clothing, and gifts.
Credit: NelsonTasman.nz