Explore the charm of Māpua

Nestled along the Ruby Coast, Māpua offers a serene escape from the daily grind. With its vibrant wharf, captivating views, artisan shops, and top-notch eateries, it’s easy to see why this seaside village has become a favourite destination for both locals and visitors.

A rich history

The name Māpua translates to ‘abundance,’ and the area’s history reflects this richness. From early Māori settlers drawn to the plentiful waters of the Waimea Estuary to today’s thriving community, Māpua has grown around its iconic wharf. The Māpua Boat Club’s photo museum provides fascinating insights into the wharf’s evolution and the events that have shaped this picturesque spot.

Getting there

Just a 30-minute drive from Nelson, Māpua is easily accessible for a day trip or a relaxing weekend getaway. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic, flat section of the Great Taste Trail from Richmond to Māpua, which hugs the Waimea Inlet and leads to Rabbit Island. A short, 10-minute ferry ride from Rabbit Island brings you directly to the Māpua Wharf.

Handmade elegance at Māpua wharf

Studio Deco Design NZ has been creating unique, handcrafted lighting and décor for four years. Established in 2020 by Sebastian Caceres, the studio is a treasure trove of creativity. Sebastian brings a rich Chilean and Italian heritage, a degree in industrial design, and a passion for woodwork which is evident in his stunning designs - including his signature artichoke lamp, crafted from layers of manipulated timber such as recycled New Zealand natives and other sustainable woods from America and Europe.

Dedicated to the designing and construction of a range of lamp shades, lamps and décor items, Sebastian is inspired by organic forms and retro aesthetics, his lamps and pendants seamlessly complementing a variety of interiors. With on-site 3D construction facilities, Studio Deco Design NZ specialises in custom-made pieces, offering clients the chance to bring their unique visions to life. Sebastian’s attention to detail ensures every creation is both functional and beautiful.

Open seven days a week, Studio Deco Design’s works can also be purchased weekly at the Nelson Saturday Market, although a visit to the Māpua studio is highly recommended to see the full range of products and sizes available.

Inspired spaces, crafted locally

Located at 150 Māpua Drive, Barton Architecture is an architectural firm founded by Carleton Barton. Renowned for creativity and dedication to sustainability, the firm has earned a reputation for unique homes and alterations that reflect the site location and needs of each client. Carlton established the firm with the vision of offering a fresh approach to both residential and commercial design.

“Good Architecture is to design spaces that resonate with people, enhance their lives, and stand the test of time”. Being based in Māpua is something Carleton deeply values. “The area’s natural surroundings and proximity to the waterfront, natural environment, and community provide endless inspiration. “Living and working here allows me to collaborate closely with local craftspeople, builders, and suppliers to ensure a great result for each clients investment”.

The success of our architectural projects, and alterations and additions, lies in our commitment to exceed set expectations through a strong client-designer partnership. Client expectations are met and within budget and reflect the highest standards of craftsmanship and design.

With a passion for design and a love for his community, Carleton Barton continues to shape the architectural landscape of Māpua and beyond, one inspired space at a time.

Things To Do

1. Ride Tasman's Great Taste Trail
   Tasman’s Great Taste Trail is a scenic coastal cycle path perfect for short rides and afternoon adventures. Enjoy stunning views of Tasman Bay and the Western Ranges as you ride. Stop at boutique wineries, craft breweries, and local eateries, or watch artists at work. The ferry between Māpua and Rabbit Island adds a fun twist, with Māpua Wharf offering waterfront dining and unique shops.
   
2. Have an arty experience
   If you’re looking for an authentic arty experience, look no further than Māpua and the Ruby Coast. There’s just something about the place that gets the creative juices flowing in the veins of the locals … perhaps it’s the laid-back seaside lifestyle, maybe it’s the stunning vistas that surround them, or perhaps there’s just something special in the water. Peruse the art, sculpture and jewellery collections at the cool store galleries, watch the artists at work in their pewter workshop, or simply indulge in some boutique shopping in Māpua.
3. Savour local flavours
   If anyone knows how to celebrate the diverse flavours of our region's soils, crops, fruits, and bays, it’s the Māpua and Ruby Coast community. With a craft brewery, wine bar and a selection of restaurants at the seaside, you can enjoy the full-bodied beverages made from the Moutere clay soils and local hop fields, alongside delectable seafood and fresh seasonal produce all year round.
4. Relax with fish and chips on the Māpua Wharf
   Our region is bordered by stunning bays and estuaries, sparking regular debates among locals about the best place for fish and chips. Māpua Wharf often tops the list, with its refreshing sea breeze and the sound of waves lapping against the shore.
5. Jump off the Māpua Wharf
   The Māpua Wharf is a hot spot for swimming, fishing, and the ever-popular wharf jumping, particularly in the summer months (although we have seen some brave souls jumping in the middle of winter). Plunging off the wooden platform into the waters below, then laying back and riding the tide appears to be a favourite pastime for many wharf visitors, whilst others just like to watch from afar with a glass of wine in hand at Jellyfish Restaurant & Bar.
6. Bird watch
   The Waimea Estuary, South Island’s largest, is a must-visit for birdwatchers. This globally important spot hosts migratory stars like bar-tailed godwits, along with endangered locals like white herons, Caspian terns, and banded rails. It’s also a lifeline for fish, linking streams to Tasman Bay. At low tide, grab your binoculars or camera—perfect for spotting birds in action and practicing quickshot photography. Don’t miss the unique plants, like coastal peppercress, adding even more charm to this wildlife haven.
7. Explore the Ruby Coast Arts Trail
   The creative spirit of the Nelson Tasman region is deeply embedded in the townships of Māpua and the Ruby Coast, and this is celebrated through a surprisingly diverse range of galleries and studios. Art enthusiasts are spoilt for choice with the Ruby Art Trail, which spans eight unique locations running the length of the Ruby Coast and beyond.

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