Mapua Wharf is a charming coastal destination located in the small town of Mapua, in the South Island of New Zealand. The town is situated to the west of Nelson on State Highway 60 and on the coastline of Tasman Bay. The first European resident of Mapua, James Heatly, worked as a fisherman and hunted rabbits, which he brought to Nelson to sell. The port area was originally known as the Western Entrance, and the township dubbed Seaton Township (by a surveyor who had been subdividing part of the t
Mr F.I. Ledger helped plan out the town and later named it "Mapua" which was also what the New Zealand telephone guide named it. Mapua means "abundance" or "prolific" when interpreted into English.
Mapua Wharf is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with a lively cluster of restaurants, art galleries, wine bars, and a craft brewery. The wharf is owned by Tasman District Council and is a popular spot for recreational boaties, with easy access from Nelson or Motueka in small vessels. Mapua is also one of the stops on the Tasman's Great Taste Trail, a cycling and walking trail that takes visitors through the region's stunning scenery, vineyards, and orchards.
Visitors to Mapua can enjoy modern accommodation with water views at the Mapua Wharfside Apartments, located directly next to Mapua Ferry Wharf. The apartments offer free private parking and free WiFi, and are within walking distance of the town's shops and restaurants. The location is fantastic, with stunning views of the Waimea Estuary and easy access to the beach. Mapua covers an area of 2.32 km2 (0.90 sq mi) and had a population of 1,254 at the 2018 New Zealand census, an increase of 144 people (13.0%) since the 2013 census, and an increase of 180 people (16.8%) since the 2006 census. There were 489 households.
Visitors to Mapua can also explore the surrounding area, including the nearby Rabbit Island, a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and cycling. In summary, Mapua Wharf is a charming coastal destination in the South Island of New Zealand, offering visitors a range of activities, including dining, shopping, and outdoor recreation. With stunning views of the Waimea Estuary and easy access to the beach, it is the perfect place to relax and unwind for a long weekend away.