Rabbit Island - Moturoa

On an island called Moturoa lies one of the most beautiful and beloved beaches in the Nelson region. It’s an 8.5 kilometre stretch of sumptuous golden sand and ragged waters, popular with whitebaiters and surfcasters. It’s a great place for a barbecue, too, and many Nelsonians make it their beach of choice in the summer months. The island got its name in the early 1990s. Before then, it had long been known as Rabbit Island and some locals still use that name, though there isn’t a rabbit to be seen. Moturoa is one of three islands that lie within the Waimea Estuary at the head of Tasman Bay. It’s covered in a dense pine forest that serves to seclude the area from the nearby mainland urban spread of Richmond. This idyllic setting and its relatively close proximity to a busy, populated area makes the island a favourite destination for people seeking ‘nature experiences’ without the need to travel far and contend with possibly difficult terrain. This large stretch of land is also ideal for horseback riding, a service provided by the island’s recently installed equestrian centre. By David Welch

SELF GUIDED 3-DAY COASTAL CYCLE TOUR FROM NELSON