Mapua is a small village on New Zealand’s South Island that punches well above its weight when it comes to lunch experiences. Whether you’re after a creative art-filled afternoon, a gourmet food tour, or a wine and art combo, Mapua offers options that blend scenic beauty with delicious local fare. We particularly like the Nelson: Art Gallery Tour with Lunch, which combines artistic inspiration with a tasty lunch, making it ideal for culture lovers who want to immerse themselves without long travel days. If wine is more your style, the Nelson: Wine and Art Tour with Tastings offers a relaxed day of tastings paired with art exploration. Whichever you choose, these experiences highlight the region’s vibrant creativity and culinary delights.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of our top three lunch experiences in Mapua, each offering something uniquely appealing—from gallery visits and food tastings to a combination of wine, art, and scenic beauty.
1. Nelson: Art Gallery Tour with Lunch
This tour is perfect for lovers of art and local landscapes. Spend about 7 hours exploring Nelson’s lively art scene, visiting galleries and studios, and meeting local artists—many of whom open their doors just for this experience. The tour includes a delicious lunch at a well-known local restaurant along the way, giving you a chance to indulge in regional cuisine while appreciating the artistic atmosphere.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on Nelson’s inspiring landscapes, which serve as the muse for many artists. You’ll see a variety of artworks, from traditional paintings to modern sculptures, and learn about the stories behind them. The guide is knowledgeable about the local art scene, making this a great option for culture enthusiasts. The included lunch allows for relaxed socializing and a real taste of regional flavors, making this experience both enriching and satisfying.
Bottom line: If you enjoy art, scenery, and a leisurely pace, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Nelson’s creative heart, all wrapped in a friendly, informal setting.
$210 per person
2. Nelson: Taste Tasman Food & Wine Tour with Lunch & Tastings
For around $937 per group up to two people, this private tour hits the sweet spot for food and wine lovers. Covering about 8 hours, it takes you through the stunning Tasman region, incorporating food tastings, scenic stops, and a gourmet lunch at an award-winning restaurant. The tour includes a visit to the tranquil Te Puna o Riuwaka, known for its calm pools and lush surroundings—perfect for a quick nature break.
What makes this tour distinctive is its curated approach—local artisans in food, glass, and clay open their studios for you to explore, giving you insight into the region’s craftsmanship. Mapua Wharf is a highlight, where you can enjoy fresh fruit ice creams by the water’s edge. The Moutere countryside is your backdrop for sampling local wines and products, making this a full sensory journey. The guide’s tailored approach means you’ll get personalized attention and a deep dive into the area’s culinary scene.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for travelers who want an all-in-one experience of fine food, regional wines, and local arts, with a touch of scenic beauty along the way.
$937 per group up to 2
3. Nelson: Wine and Art Tour with Tastings and Lunch
Priced at $210 per person for about 7 hours, this tour combines Nelson’s vibrant art scene with its acclaimed wine offerings. You’ll visit galleries in Nelson and Tasman, where regional artists display their works—many inspired by the surrounding landscape. The highlight is sampling award-winning wines in the scenic Moutere Hills, known for their high-quality production.
This experience is perfect for those who appreciate both cultural and gustatory pleasures. The tour includes a delicious lunch at a boutique winery, where you can relax while savoring local flavors. The guide provides insights into the region’s history, culture, and creative community, making it educational as well as enjoyable. Small-group sizes ensure a personal experience, and the pickup/drop-off service adds convenience.
Guests often comment on how the combination of art and wine creates a relaxed yet enriching atmosphere, making it a great choice for couples or small groups looking for a balanced day out.
Bottom line: If you want a straightforward, well-paced tour that pairs visual art with wine tastings and a tasty lunch, this is a smart pick.
$210 per person
How to Choose Your Best Lunch Experience in Mapua
When selecting between these tours, consider your interests and how much time you have. If art is your main focus, the Nelson: Art Gallery Tour with Lunch offers an immersive day exploring galleries and studios with a relaxed meal. For those wanting a deeper taste of the local food and drink scene, the Nelson: Taste Tasman Food & Wine Tour provides a private, curated experience with tastings and scenic stops. Meanwhile, if combining art and wine appeals to you, the Nelson: Wine and Art Tour offers a more compact, yet richly layered, experience.
Think about your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer a more active or relaxed pace. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot.
In summary, Mapua’s lunch experiences offer a variety of ways to enjoy the region’s creative and culinary richness. For a leisurely cultural day, start with the art gallery tour. If your palate craves gourmet food and fine wines, the Tasman Food & Wine Tour delivers. For a balanced mix of both, the wine and art tour is perfect. Whichever you choose, these tours promise memorable tastes and sights—so plan ahead and enjoy your flavorful journey in Mapua.