While you can legally ride on any road, it’s safest to use dedicated cycle paths. Nelson offers some excellent options:
- The old railway reserve cycleway from Saxton Road (Stoke) to Nelson
- Routes along St Vincent Street, into the CBD, and to Haven Road and the port
- From Atawhai to Collingwood Street and into the city
Check out the bike route map in Nelson’s Active Transport Strategy – E-Tū Whakatū for existing and proposed infrastructure (page 25).
Don’t forget these top tips!
Use a bell on shared paths and pass people slowly – no faster than jogging pace.
- Wear a helmet (required by NZ law). Many comfortable, stylish options are available.
- LoveToRide has fantastic tips on building confidence, winter cycling, maintenance, and more.
- Think rain means you can’t ride? Not true! As the Dutch say, “You’re not made of sugar — you won’t melt.” Even if you only cycle on dry days, you’ll still avoid many of your high-carbon commutes.
Photo credit: Nelson Weekly/Max Frethey