Best Places To Ride E-Scooters In Nelson

E-scootering in Nelson – where better to feel the breeze in your hair than the sunniest city in the south? E-scooters in Nelson have become increasingly popular recently because of Nelson’s accessibility and relatively flat inner-city landscape.

Whether you’re visiting as a tourist or commuting daily, an e-scooter is a fun, eco-friendly way to get around the hustle and bustle of Nelson.

For the adventure seeker, several trails near the city would suit an Off Road E-Scooter – a unique way to embrace the outdoorsy spirit of the South Island.

In this article:

• What Makes Nelson A Great Destination For E-Scooters?
• 5 Best Locations For Scenic And Urban E-Scooter Rides In Nelson
• Tasman's Great Taste Trail
• Nelson Waterfront and Tahunanui Beach
• Maitai River Walkway
• Railway Reserve
• Saxton Feild Complex
• Getting An E-Scooter In Nelson
• Rules for riding e-scooters in Nelson
• FAQs

1. Does Nelson have e-scooters?
2. How much does an electric scooter cost in New Zealand?

What Makes Nelson A Great Destination For E-Scooters?

Nelsonians have a proud history of being very eco-friendly, so it’s no wonder it’s an amazing place to enjoy your e-scooter.

Nelson, including Stoke and Richmond, are all relatively flat, making commuting via e-scooter extremely attractive for those wanting to reduce their carbon emissions and save money at the same time.

A generous shared pathway runs the length of Rocks Road and Wakefield Quay, providing safe access for e-scooters to travel between the suburbs. Recent by-law changes have paved the way for this new way of travelling.

Nelson City Council is committed to sustainable transport goals and has developed over 20 kilometres of shared pathways around the urban centre.

In Nelson, you can ride an e-scooter on the road; just stay as far to the left as possible.

You can ride on the footpaths too, just at an appropriate speed around pedestrians.

Though it’s not technically required by law, the New Zealand Transport Agency—Waka Kotahi recommends wearing a helmet—and we do, too!

If you’re new to e-scooters or feeling unsure, check out our beginner rider’s guide, which walks you through all the basics.

5 Best Locations For Scenic And Urban E-Scooter Rides In Nelson

Tasman's Great Taste Trail

The Great Taste Trail is a large pathway highlighted as one of New Zealand's “Great Rides.” Starting in the CBD, you can check out the thriving culture of central Nelson. It also encompasses beautiful bush, scenic vineyards, and amazing views across the ocean, all within a day's journey.

You can choose your own adventure with this one, doing part of the route or doing it all over several days. If you go for a long ride, take plenty of water and food, and pack a warm layer. And don’t forget to tell someone where you’re going. Parts of this trail are off-road, so check out the information on your preferred section before you scoot into the sunset!

Nelson Waterfront and Tahunanui Beach

A stunning way to see the city, and enjoy the beach! Start your morning the Nelson way, by grabbing a coffee in town. Then, using the beautiful Nelson waterfront shared pathway, take your e-scooter along to the Tahunanui Beach reserve.

You’ll start with views out over the marina and end with the sunny, sandy shores of Tahunanui Beach. Swim, sunbathe, or visit the Natureland Wildlife Trust Zoo! You can top off this leisurely ride with some top-notch fish and chips.

Maitai River Walkway

This trail takes you along the riverside into the lush Maitai River Valley. It is only 3.7 kilometres, so it is the perfect easy outing for a family or a casual solo expedition. There are several stunning picnic stops beside the river, so take a packed lunch!

If you bring togs and a towel, there are some great waterholes for swimming in the warmer months. If you have an off-road e-scooter, there are options to connect with some off-road trails, taking you further up the Maitai River Valley.

Railway Reserve

This fantastic inner city trail is full of history and culture. Starting at the cul-de-sac of Quarantine Place, this path takes the route that trains used in days gone by.

There are a few length options for this trail, but if you head south far enough, you can loop north and hop back on the Waterfront path, a total loop of 13 kilometres.

For the art buffs, there is an art piece called “Arrival & Beginning” by local sculptor Mike Hindmarsh. It can be found at the end of Byron Place, just off the Railway Reserve path.

Saxton Field Complex

The majority of the Saxton Field Complex is flat and open access, meaning it is a safe and fun place to use an e-scooter. If you are learning how to ride an e-scooter, this would be a great option for you!

Over 2.5 kilometres of paved pathways wind through various sports fields, wetlands, and beautiful bush areas. Wind in your hair, kids playing sports, dogs frolicking on the empty fields… bliss!

There is a guide to the complex and maps of the area here. The ‘open access’ doesn’t apply if a sports event is happening. Please be considerate of this.

Getting An E-Scooter In Nelson

Where to buy e-scooters in Nelson

Storm Rides offers great deals on new scooters and can provide great advice via their web chat service. You can get your new scooter delivered free to Nelson using the free shipping code (currently “2024”).

Storm Rides has the biggest range of e-scooters, e-bikes, and e-skateboards in New Zealand, perfectly suited to Nelson's varying terrain. We also offer finance and a massive 2-year warranty.

Our price match policy means that, if you find an e-scooter you like in Nelson, you can hit us up on the web chat and we’ll match it. Between our free shipping and competitive prices, we’ve got you covered!

Can you rent e-scooters in Nelson?

As of June 2024, there are no scooter hire options in Nelson.

Storm Rides has been selling e-scooters for over 8 years. With hundreds of 5-star reviews from our customers, we’re the place to go for the best e-scooter brands and expert advice on choosing the right ride for you.

Rules for Riding E-Scooters in Nelson

E-scooters in Nelson can be used on both footpaths and roads, convenient for commuters and people looking to explore their scooter's range.

When riding on the footpath, it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings and operate the scooter carefully and considerately.

NZTA says to “maintain a speed that ensures the safety of others.”

When riding on the road in Nelson, keep as far to the left of the road as possible. A helmet is not a legal requirement, but it is recommended. Storm Rides has a range of helmets that will look good and keep you safe.

Be safe out there! Bodies and pavements do not go together well!

A helmet is a great idea, but what about the rest of you? Gloves, lights and jackets will all help should you ever end up taking a tumble.

Embracing The E-Scooter Lifestyle In Nelson

Nelson is the perfect place for riding an e-scooter. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and sustainability, which the city is renowned for. Nelson also has a range of landscapes, so it’s perfect for all skill levels.

If you have any questions about embracing the e-scooter lifestyle in Nelson, please get in touch. Our friendly team would love to hear from you!

FAQs

Does Nelson have e-scooters?

As of June 2024, there are no E-scooters for hire via an app. Storm Rides delivers to Nelson. For free delivery when you spend more than $499, using the free shipping code (currently “2024”).

How much does an electric scooter cost in New Zealand?

Storm Rides has the biggest range of e-scooters in New Zealand. The most affordable e-scooter starts at $799 and goes up to over $6000 for a top-of-the-line model.

You’ll want to determine which model suits your needs, abilities, and price range. The team at Storm Rides is happy to help you find the perfect e-scooter for you.

Cover Image @Copyright Markus Koljonen (Dilaudid), Nelson New Zealand, CC BY-SA 3.0.