You can get to Rabbit Island by car, and just go to the beach, but if you want a relaxing half-day bicycle trip, visit Rabbit Island and Mapua by bicycle and ferry boat. Depending upon how much time you have and how far you want to ride, rent a bicycle in Nelson, Stoke, Richmond, or Mapua, and then cycle along the Great Taste Trail to Rabbit Island. Then take the ferry (hourly, but confirm operating days/hours online) to Mapua. Visit the shops and have lunch in Mapua, take the ferry back to Rabbit Island, and then cycle back to wherever you started. Combine the cycle trip in Mapua with a visit to Jester House. (Friday only. Limited hours.) This is a free activity if you have your own bicycle. Bicycle rental can be anywhere from NZ$50 to $150, depending upon type.