Mapua Wharf

At the mouth of the vast Waimea Estuary the Mapua Wharf is home to a vibrant collection of restaurants, cafe's, galleries, stores and attractions. Eat fish and chips on the wharf, fish off the wharf with your family or browse amongst the unique stores showcasing local artisans and quality goods.

In the summer wharf jumping and riding the tide are popular and so is enjoying a glass of something cold and a great meal while watching the tide come in and out.

Mapua means abundance and the rich waters of the Waimea Estuary have attracted settlers from early Maori through to the bustling community that has grown up around the Mapua Wharf today. The photo museum operated at the wharf by the Mapua Boat Club records this history and events that have shaped the growth of the wharf.

A short 25 minute drive from Nelson, the Mapua Wharf makes a great day out with friends and family. 

Since the Mapua Ferry Started in 2011 and the cycle trail has reached  Mapua, the Mapua Wharf has really developed into a place to come and to sample the buzzing atmosphere.

Trail Journeys - bike hire
Jellyfish Cafe and Bar
Serious Straws Hat Shop
The Apple Shed Cafe
Coolstore Gallery
Delicious Homewares
Forest Fusion Functional Art
Mapua Ferry & Trail Journeys Nelson
Le Havre French Collections
Golden Bear Brewing Company
Hamish’s Ice Cream’s & Café
Mapua Boat Club & Museum
The Smokehouse
Mapua Leisure Park
Mapua Chalets

Trail Journeys for bike hire and trail information

Enjoy fresh fish & chips at the Smokehouse

The Apple Shed; breakfast, lunch and dinner

Catch the Mapua Ferry over to Rabbit Island from the Mapua Leisure Park

Functional art, sculptures, lights, clocks, contemporary jewellery and water features. from Forest Fusion Functional Art