Explore the Majestic Maungatapu Saddle

Getting There

• Walking

  Start at the Nelson i-SITE Visitor Centre located at 74 Trafalgar Street. Head east on Trafalgar Street towards the intersection with Hardy Street. Turn left onto Hardy Street and continue until you reach the intersection with Bridge Street. Cross Bridge Street and continue onto the cycle path that runs along the Maitai River. Follow the river path until you reach the Maitai Dam. From the dam, take the walking track that leads towards the Maungatapu Saddle. This track is well-marked and ascends gradually, with stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Keep an eye out for trail markers as you approach the saddle.

• Biking

  Begin your journey from the Nelson city centre at the i-SITE Visitor Centre and head towards the Maitai River. Follow the same route as walkers by cycling along the river path. Once you reach the Maitai Dam, park your bike at the designated bike racks and begin your hike up to Maungatapu Saddle. The bike ride is approximately 10 kilometers, and the trail to the saddle is a further 5 kilometers on foot.

• Public Transport and Walking

  Take the Nelson City Bus from the central bus station to the Maitai Valley. Get off at the Maitai Dam stop. From there, you will need to walk along the walking track that leads to Maungatapu Saddle. The bus journey will take approximately 15 minutes, and the hike to the saddle from the dam will take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your fitness level.