Eastland/Bay of Plenty

Presenting some of New Zealand’s best cycling,including Whakatane, Opotiki, Gisborne,East Cape & featuring The Motu Trails

Eastland / Bay of Plenty

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Wainui Beach

Te Puia Springs

Tikitiki

Ohope

Hicks Bay

Te Kaha

Gisborne

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Wairoa

Ohiwa

Whakatane

Rere Falls Trail

OpotikiMotu Trails

Matawai

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CYCLEGUIDES

New Zealand

2 | Eastland- BOP Tracks n’ Trails

Eastland- BOP Tracks n’ Trails | 3

Tena koutou katoa, Greetingsfromouteast,thefirstplaceintheworldtogreetthesuneachday. Iampleasedtosupportaforewordforthispublication.TracksnTrailsEastlandBOPisanimportantpartofshowcasingwhatwearedoinginGisborneandEastCoastregion. Itisexcitingthatmoreofourcommunityandmorevisitorsarechoosingtoengageincycling,walkingandrailtrails. Withmorepeoplechoosingtohavemoreexperiences,seemoreofourbeautifulcountry,undertakemoreactivityandseekadventure–you’llbehappytoknowourCouncilisthinkingaboutalloftheabove. Tairāwhitihasmuchtocelebrate.We’redevelopingtrailsaroundoursignificanthistoricsitesandourrichculture,givingmeaningtotheexperienceofourregionandtellingourstoriesthewaywewantto. We’recommittedtobuildingfunandattractivewalkingandcyclingtrailsthatshowcaseouruniquelandscapes,waterwaysandvistas.Ourplanistocreateeasytotravellinksbetweenourlandmarks,recreationspacesandcommunitiesfromWairoainthesouth,beyondGisbornealongthepacificcoastonSH35totheEastCapelighthouse,andinlandthroughtheMotutotheBayofPlenty.

Ourstoriesandplacesaremoreaccessibleandtheexperienceforvisitorsenhancedwithnewtechnology,mapsandphoneapplicationsthatcanbeusedtoexploreourregiononandoffline. Ihopeyouvisitourparadiseouteast,toexperiencethemanytracksandtrailsthatareherenowandwhatwearebuildinginthefuture. IwarmlywelcomeyoutoenjoythebestTairāwhitihastooffer.Naumaiharamaikiatātaurohe!

Kia ora, Meng

Gisborne District Council

Mayor MenG Foon


The Eastern Bay of Plenty and Gisborne regions offer you numerous cycling options, for family fun, heartland escape and backcountry adventure. All you need to know is in this all-new TRACKS N TRAILS! Inside,you’llfindinformation,plushandytips and maps, for tracks and trails around Whirinaki, Whakatane, Ohope, Opotiki, Motu, Gisborne and the world renowed SW35. Amongst our featured trails are the mighty Motu Trails, which include the Dunes Trail, the Motu Road Trail and the Pakihi Track. Motu Trails is one of the Great Rides on the New Zealand Cycle Trail, Nga Haerenga. Thousands of people ride it every year. It’s a must-do!

Welcome to brilliant biking!

are you reaDy to riDe? aWesoMe

The climate here is excellent, typically with long mild autumns, so you’re likely to enjoy some good biking weather. The tracks and trails stay open all year. The whole Eastlandregionhasrelativelylittletraffic,so you quickly get to the tracks and trails. There’s also fascinating history in many of the places you visit. Plus of course, the region is famous for stunning beaches and forests — and the relaxed vibe that brings. Be set free….

Jim RobinsonJim is the Executive Officer for theMotu Trails Charitable Trustand an independent cycling journalist. 2

Wainui Beach

Te Puia Springs

Tikitiki

Ohope

Hicks Bay

Te Kaha

Gisborne

35

35

Wairoa

Ohiwa

Whakatane

Rere Falls Trail

OpotikiMotu Trails

Matawai

2

2

Map of region

Whakatane, opotiki, Gisborne & east Cape

2

Wainui Beach

Te Puia Springs

Tikitiki

Ohope

Hicks Bay

Te Kaha

Gisborne

35

35

Wairoa

Ohiwa

Whakatane

Rere Falls Trail

OpotikiMotu Trails

Matawai

2

2


At a glanceGrade: Easy.

Distance: 4.5kmeachway.

Access: MultipleaccesspointsbetweenLandingRoadandWhakataneheads.

Food: ClosetoshopsandcafesinWhakataneCBDandalongthewharfarea.

Toilets: NearWhakataneheads;belowtheInformationCentre;belowriverstopbankattheendofEiver’sRoad.

Whakatane rides

Warren Cole WalkWay to Whakatane heaDs

Ifyou’rekeenforaneasycyclingcruisewithlotstosee,WarrenColeWalkandCyclewayalongariversidetrailissuperb. Thisverypopulartrackstretchesabout4.5km.OnetrailendisbytheWhakataneRiverbridgeonLandingRoad,theotherisnearWhakataneheads.It’sfullysealed/paved.

ŌHOPE BEACH

THORNTON

OHIWA

WhakatāneRiver

HARBOUR

TĀNEATUA

Tauranga

RotoruaŌpōtiki

Whirinaki

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30

34

30

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WHAK ATĀNE

MOUTOHORĀ(Whale Island)MATATĀ

Tarawera River

KAWERAU

TE TEKO

EDGECUMBE

AWAKERI3

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4

5

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KEYWarren Cole Cycleway

Burma Road

Rawhiti Forest Mountain Bike

Onepu Mountain Bike Park

Moerangi Track, Whirinaki Forest

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You’reriversidethewholeway.NeartheWhakataneRivermouth,youcanwatchthePacificOceanswellrollingin.LookovertherivertoWairaka,theladyontherock,aneye-catchingstatuethatwasunveiledin1965.Akilometreupriverfromhere,theWhakatanewharvesusuallyhaveplentygoingon,perfectifyou’rewithkids.LargeshadesailsmarktheWhakataneInformationCentre,ahandyplacetostopforadviceorsimplytotakeabreatherinthecool. Aboutmidwayonthetrack,theriverhaslargeareasofsaltmarsh.Ifyouenjoybird-watching,therearemanyspeciestospot.Therearethreepouwhenua(welcomepoles)attheLandingRoadentranceandanotheratWhakataneRoseGardens.

TIP: Look out for sculpture including ‘Moko the Dolphin’ and ‘Kiwi Kid’.

Phone: 07 323 6492Email: [email protected]

Website: www.tarawerariver.co.nz31 Porritt Dr Kawerau, Bay Of Plenty

Your hosts Aroha and Murray welcome you to the

Tarawera River Lodge MotelWe are located adjacent to the Tarawera River, tucked away in a quiet and peaceful area of Kawerau. The Motel comprises of 6 one bedroom units which sleep up to 3 people. There are 2 superior units with queen size beds and spacious ensuites. We also have 4 large family units which sleep up to 6 people, with views overlooking the river.

Tarawera River Lodge is centrally situated, central to many of the wonderful rides this area has to offer being 10 minutes from the lakes, 30 minutes toWhakatane on the coast and45 minutes to Rotorua.


Whakatane rides

At a glance:Grade: Intermediate-advanced.

Distance: 15kmofsingletrackandforestryroads.

Access: Vehicleaccess/parking fromBurmaRoad, offWainuiRoad3km eastofOhope. BikeaccessfromBurma

RoadviaMaraetotaraRoad,Ohope.

Food: CafesandshopsinOhopeVillage;superettenearMaraetotaraReserve.

raWhiti Forest

Ifyoulikegruntyhillsandungroomedtrails,you’llloveRawhitiForest.Thisissteepterrain,peakingat300m+altitudeandthestretchesofflattrailarefewandfarbetween.However,thetrailshavebeeninplaceforquiteafewyearsnowandmostlytheyareverywellformedandflowing. Rawhitiinotherwordsissuperridingifyouwantagoodhonestride,youhaveskillsandfitness,andyoudon’tmindtheoddfallenbranchorpongafrond.Mostoftherideareaisinpineforestwithfree-drainingpumicesoils,soeveninwinteritisnottoomuddy.Thestarrideistoheadallthewaytothetransmittertower,thenwiggleyourwaydowntrackslike‘EasternExpress’,‘WorksWhoops’and‘SwampThing’. Rawhitiisprivateland,soit’sessentialyoueitherjointheWhakataneMountainBike

Club,orgetatwo-weekpass.Youwillgetinformationwithyourmembershiporpass.Getyourpassatwhakatane.mtbclub.org.nz;orfromOhopeBeachTop10HolidayPark,orfromWhakataneInformationCentre,cnrQuayStandKakahoroaDrive,0800942528.

TIP: Riding alone? For safety, take a personal locater beacon!

Photo courtesy of www.virtuallyontrack.co.nz


FAMILY FUNincapitalletters!OnepuRecreationParkislocated25kmsouthwestofWhakataneonSH30.It’sacommunityproject,initiatedbytheOnepuParkCareGroup,formountainbiking,walkingandrunning.Theparkissuitableforalltypesofriderswantingtogetoffthesealontoforesttrail.Theterrainisflattoeasyclimbing. You’llfindfourmainsingletrackbiketrails.‘TheOutback’isforparkentryandexit.‘Pai’sPathway’takesyouonagentleclimbtothetopoftheridge.‘OhMai-Mai’

At a glanceGrade: Easy/intermediate.

Distance: 15kmoftrails.

Access: FromnearBraemarRoadbySH30.

Food: NearestshopsareatKawerauandTeTeko.

onepu reCreation park

Whakatane rides

Karibu has competitively-priced dorm rooms, singles, doubles and two-bedroom units. A large camping area is available.Vans welcome. Free wifi.We’re a small, clean, homely and environmentally friendly hostel situated only 2 minutes walking distance from the supermarket, shops and cycleways.

Phone/Fax: +64 7 307 8276Email: [email protected]

www.karibubackpackers.co.nz13 Landing Rd, Whakatane

isashared-usebike/walktrailthatzigzagsdowntoLakeTamurenui.‘Hedgehog’isafun,downhillendtoyourride. Inaddition,‘RidgeLoop’isashared-use4WDstyletrack,anoptiontoconnectthefourmainsingletrackswithsomeextraupanddown. Theparkisonprivateland.Youdon’tneedtopurchaseapass,howeverNorskeSkogTasmanreserveallrightsofaccessanduseoftheforest.

TIP: Onepu Recreation Park has aBMX-style jumps area called ‘The Sandpit’.


Whakatane rides

At a glanceGrade: Easy/intermediate.

Distance: 10-15kmdependingon whatyoudo.

Access: FromMaraetotaraRoad,Ohope;orfromOhopeRoadbetweenWhakatane-Ohope.

Food: CafesandshopsinOhope Village,superettenear MaraetotaraReserve.

Toilets: MaraetotaraReserve;Mahy ReservebyOhopeVillage.

BurmaRoadisaneasy/intermediategraderidethatpassesthroughlovelyfarmlandandbush,givingarealsenseofescape.Itisgravel4WDroad,muchofthedistancegated-offtotraffic.ThispagedescribesaloopridefeaturingBumaRoad. StartatMaraetotaraReserveinOhope,wherethereareexcellentplaygroundandpicnicfacilitiesplusbeachaccessanda

nearbysuperette.CrossPohutukawaAveandrideupMaraetotaraRoad.Theroadquicklybecomesgravelbutstaysmainlyflat.You’renowonthehistoricroutefromOpotikitoWhakatane,whichacenturyago,wasusedbyhorsedrawncarriages.ThejourneyfromGisbornetoWhakatanetooktwodays,fromWhakatanetoAucklandanotherthreeorfourdays. ContinueridingupMaraetotaraRoadforabout2.5km.YoucometoasignedintersectionwithBurmaRoad.Keepgoingstraightahead,bythebarriergate.YouarenowonBurmaRoad.Beforelong,youstartclimbingatasteadygradient.Pausetolookattheviewsoverthevalleyasthematurebushisawesome.ThiswholeareaiswildKiwicountry,soifyouhaveadogwithyou,itneedstohavehadkiwiaversiontrainingorbeleashed. Continueclimbingforabout2.5kmtoaheightof120m.Atthetopthere’sabarriergate,thenanunservicedcarparkingarea.Headingright(northwards),followtheroaddownfor800mtoreachsealedroadandthemainOhopeRoad.

burMa roaD


Alton Lodge Motel

Air-Conditioning /Heat pumps in all units, all rooms have cooking facilities. Free unlimited WIFI, heated indoor swimming pool (closed between June - September).Free off road car parking. 32 inch TVs, sky and freeview. Studios are on level ground. Bedroom units have stairs. 15 minute walk to the centre of town or 5 min walk to supermarket and takeaway stores. Rates from $115 studios, $130 for one bedrooms. (seasonal rates may apply, corporate rates available)

Aircon/Heatpump-all 11 unitsFree carpark & WifiStudio units ground level 1 & 2 bedroomed units have stairsHost Accommodation Group

Freephone: 0800 425 866 (0800 4Alton)Phone: 07 307 1003 • Fax: 07 308 5438

Email: [email protected] • 76 Domain Road, Whakatane, 3120

Turnright(eastwards)ontheroadsidecycle/walkway,firstrisinggraduallythendescendingsteeplytoOhopeVillage—whereMahyReservehasdrinkingfountainsandmakesanidealice-creamstop!Continuealongtheon-roadbikelaneforanother2kmtoreachyourstartpoint.Thisloopisabout10km. Foradditionalchallengeanddistance,returnuptotheMaraetotara/BurmaRoadintersection,andturnleftontotheeasternendofBurmaRoad.Thisclimbsover

farmlandto100mthendropstothemainWainuiRoad3kmeastofOpotiki,passingtheentrancetoRawhitiForest(seepage8). ThisendofBurmaRoadisintermediategraderiding,withacoupleofsteep4WDfarmtracksectionsandseveralfarmgatestopass.YoucanreturntoOhopeonthemainroad.

TIP: You can ride or walk all the way from Whakatane to Ohope on paved and hard packed roadside cycle/walkway.


Whakatane rides

At a glanceGrade: Intermediate-advanced.

Distance: 35kmofsingletrackandforestryroad.

Access: FromMurupara,travelalongTeWhaitiRoad,whichbecomesRuatahunaRoadonceyoureachTeWhaiti.Continue7.5km,turnrightontoOkahuValleyRdandcontinueanother9kmtothecarpark.Alternatively,fromTeWhaiti,turnleftontoMinginuiRoadandfollowthesignstoRiverRoadcarpark.

Food: StockupatRotorua,WhakataneorMurupara.

Toilets: OkahuValleycarpark;OldFortRoadcarpark,RiverRoadcarpark.

IntheheartofTeUrewera,thesuperb35kmMoerangiTrackpassesthroughancientpodocarpforest.Youcrossaseriesofridges,soaringto900m,beforeahugedescenttothefinish.Theridingisnotespeciallytechnicalbuttherearesomebigdropoffstotheside,andtheweathercanberobust.Bepreparedandtakecare.

MoeranGi traCk

Manygettothestartbyshuttle.Someridebothwaysinaday,butthat’sabigday!Therearehutsalongtheway,tosplittherideintoseveraldays. NearbyWhirinakiForestTrackisa16kmpurpose-builtbikingloop,againthroughmagnificentforest. Ifyouwishyoucanridejustshortstretchesofthistrail.AccessisoffRuatahunaRoad,viaSH38.ThemountainbiketrackislocatedattheendofoldFortRoad.

TIP: Whirinaki was once scene of a campaign against logging of native forest. Botanist Dr David Bellamy famously called Whirinaki a ‘dinosaur forest.’

Map courtesy of Department of Conservation


Ph:06 863 5804 or 06 862 8736

Motu Community HouseAt Motu Community House we offer you a welcoming place to stay near the southern end of the Motu Trails. Whether you’re planning to ride onwards the next day, or you’re basing yourself in Motu for more than one night, there’s all you need here, at a really affordable price.

The Community House is the refurbished Motu village post office, so it’s a key part of the area’s history. There’s a large kitchen/dining/lounge area, complete with wood-burner. This makes a warm and comfortable place to relax as a group after your ride.

We provide you with all basic amenities, including clean sheets and bedding, and all you need for cooking/dining (oven, microwave, fridge, cutlery, etc). There’s also on-site parking and secure bike storage.

The Community House sleeps 8-9. There are three bedrooms, with a combination of single beds and bunks. While it’s self-catering, we are always happy to help you make the most of your stay. For example, we are usually available to provide an evening meal, if you wish. We can also arrange shuttle/gear transport up from Opotiki, and we’re always ready to share ideas on what you could do. When you’re planning, please, just ask us!

Physical address:18 Motu Falls Road, Motu

Email address:[email protected] or [email protected]

Image courtesy of Department of Conservation


ThisisagloriouslittletrailthatrewardsyouwithcontinualviewsoverOhiwaHarbour.You’llseeallkindsofbirdspecies,andbeingshallow,theharbourtransformsendlesslywiththetides.YourridestartsoutsidethewonderfullylocatedOhiwaBeachHolidayPark(www.ohiwaholidays.co.nz)andfollowstheharbour’sedgefor6km,toapopularboatlaunchingramp,picnicareaandfishingspot. Thetrail’shighlightcomesathalfway,whereitrisesabout5mabovetheroad.Thatslightelevationisenoughtoopenupsomelovelyviewsacrossthewater—ormudflat.Overthe6kmtherearethreeroadcrossingsandseveralwoodensqueezegates,whichgetsabitfiddly—therearea

At a glance

Grade: Easy.

Distance: 6kmeachway.

Access: MultipleaccesspointsfromOhiwaHarbourRoad,ReevesRoadandOhiwaLoopRoad.

Food: Ice-blocksandcampshopatOhiwaBeachHolidayPark.

Toilets: AtOhiwaLoopRoadboatramp.

opotiki rides

ohiWa harboursiDe trail

fewdismountsandacoupleofshort,sharphillsthatyoumayneedtowalk.OhiwaHarbourandtrailisjust15minutes’drivefromOpotiki.

TIP: Near the road end just past the holiday park, there’s a shelter with seating, ideal for a picnic or ice-block in the shade.


Ride the beautiful Motu cycle trail which starts across the road at the wharf and runs round the stopbank and across the new Pakowhai ki Otutaopuku bridge to Snell beach, where you can stop for a dip. Alternatively follow the easy Dunes trail, which leads on to the old Motu Coach road and Pakihi track. Enjoy a dip in our swimming pool, kayak along the river, fish from the wharf or enjoy a native bush walk.

Opotiki Holiday Park

07 315 6050

We are located on the banks of the Waioeka River adjacent to the town wharf and boat ramp. The nearby Waiotahi and Hukawai beaches are popular for fishing, swimming and surfing.

Relax in a rural setting, only 200m from the Opotiki town centre with a range of cafes, restaurants and shops. Our accommodation ranges from park motel to cabins to suit every budget, along with plenty of spacious power and tent sites.

Email: [email protected] Web: www.opotikiholidaypark.co.nz

39 Potts Avenue, Opotiki

Opotiki Museum.The Opotiki Museum is situated in the main street of Opotiki. On the ground floor there is an extensive collection of implements and vehicles. Displays highlighting saddlery, printing, candle-making, shearing, engineering, the dairy industry and a barbers shop complete the ground floor. Early pioneer photographs and an exhibition focused on the importance of shipping in early Opotiki occupy the mezzanine floor. Twelve heritage rooms trace history from the arrival of pioneers to the 1930s on the Elvira Sundell third floor, along with the Whakatohea Research and Archives Taonga (Treasures of the past).

Open: 10 to 4 weekdays • 10 to 2 Sat • Ph 073155193 Email: [email protected]


AGreatRideliketheMotuTrailsdeservesgreatpromotion.AttheMotuTrailsCharitableTrust,ourroleasvoluntaryTrusteesistohelpkeepMotuTrailsmovingforward. TheTrustleadspromotionoftheMotuTrailsGreatRide.WeprovideawebsiteandFacebookpage,brochures,postersandotherinformationmaterial.WeworkonbehalfofthebusinessesservicingtheMotuTrails.Ourgoalistobringcommunitybenefitandeconomicgrowthtotheregion,throughtheMotuTrails,andotherlinkingtrails.TheTrustreceivesfundingforworkfromOpotikiDistrictCouncilandCommunityTrusts.WethankOpotikiDistrictCouncil,TheLionFoundation,PubCharity,SouthernTrust,BayTrust,Toi-EDAbusinessdevelopment,andHorizonEnergy,fortheirvitalsupport. Ifyou’relookingforshuttle,accommodationandotherservicesaroundtheMotuTrailsandbeyond,chooseMotuTrailsOfficialPartnerbusinessesandbesureofaqualityexperience. Visitwww.motutrails.co.nzforadirectoryofthesebusinesses. TheTrustacknowledgesthepublishersofTRACKSNTRAILS,whowillcontribute15%ofallprofitfromthisguidetotheTrust.

Motu trails

the Motu trails Charitable trust

ThesupportofTRACKSNTRAILSwillassistourpromotionalworkaswellasprovidingyouwithanexcellentinformationresource. AttheTrust,weareseekingtosecureadditionalfundingtosupportourwork.Ifyouareabusiness,organisationorindividualandyouarekeentosupportatremendousassetthatbringsmanyvisitorstotheGisborne-Opotiki-Whakataneregions—pleasegetintouchwithus.Whetherit’saone-offdonationoranongoingfinancialcommitment,wewillgreatlywelcomeyoursupport.

Enjoyyourriding.DaveEmslieChair, Motu Trails Charitable Trust


MOTU TRAILS LTDMotu Trails Freedom Bike Hire and Shuttle Service

are situated 1klm from the Dunes Trail.

Talk to John and Ngaio “at the yard” 138 St John Street, Opotiki • 07 315 5864

[email protected] • www.motucycletrails.com

We welcome riders, trampers and other groups. Leave your vehicle in our secure parking area, hire one of our extensive range of bikes, and hit the trails. Or take our shuttle bus to your preferred starting point - your bike or ours.

Choose from a great range of well-maintained bikes: mountain bikes, road bikes, comfort bikes, children’s bikes. We also offer tag-a-longs, baby carriers, tandems and retro cruisers. Or for a change of terrain, we offer you stand up Paddle Boards (SUP) and kayak hire.

Our new bunkhouse accommodation caters for up to 16 people, with 5-6 bed dorms. These rooms are nice and clean, and linen is included. There’s also a cosy lounge with widescreen TV. We have clean showers and toilets available for all our clients. Find out more on our website, or give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.

Eftpos and online banking are available. We look forward to meeting you.

We offer shuttle bus transfers.An extensive range of bike hire with secure parking.

Bunkhouse accommodation.SUP/Kayak hire & much more.

LTD


FSF

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35FOPOTIKI

Jackson Rd

Motu Rd

Snell Rd

Hikuwai Reserve

Pukeariki Beach Reserve

Wairakaia Rd

Tirohanga Rd

Pakowhai kiOtutaopuku Bridge

P a c i � c O c e a n

OmarumutuTirohanga

Beach Rd

Waioeka River

Dunes Trail

Motu Road Trail

to East Cape

MemorialPark Reserve

Pakihi Track

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0 1 2 3km

Motu trails

Dunes trail

At a glanceGrade:Easy.

Distance: 10kmeachway.

Access: MultipleaccesspointsbetweenMemorialPark

andWaiaua.

Food: CafesandshopsinOpotiki;servicestationshop/caféatTirohanga.

Toilets: OpotikiiSITE;MemorialPark;HikuwaiBeach.

Knowmore:Trailinformationandupdatesvisit

www.motutrails.co.nz andwww.facebook.com/

motutrails.

Forsure,ridingoverthebeachonawooden‘sandbridge’isthehighlightofOpotiki’s10kmDunesTrail.Butthisisalovelyridethewhole10km,wigglingup,downandaroundthetussock-coveredsanddunesofthePacificcoast.Withmultipleaccess

points,theDunesTrailmakesagreatexperienceforanyonewhocanrideabike.It’sasuperruntoo. ThebestplacetostartisMemorialPark,atthenorthernendofOpotiki.Here,you’llfindcarparking,shelter/seats,andadrinkingfountain.Walktothepavillioninthemiddleoftheparkfortoilets. YourridekicksoffbycrossingthePakowhaikiOtutaopukubridge,acycle/footbridgeovertheOtaraRiver.Thiswasbuiltin2011,withsupportofNewZealandCycleTrail(NZCT)investment. ThepeopleofthePakihikuracanoe,arrivedhereintheearly-1400sandsettlednearwherethebridgenowstands.Later,theymovedupstreamtotheconfluenceoftheTeWaitiandPakihirivers.Laterstill,theyjourneyedoverTeKowhaitrack(theoriginalcrossingthatwaslaterechoedbythePakihiTrack)andsettledatMoutohora,overlookingtheMotuvalley. Ridingthetrailinsummer,alwaysbereadyforoncomingridersasitdoesgetbusy.EspeciallyonkeydayslikeNewYear’s,there’sawonderfulatmosphere,


Justafter,thetrailcrossesthesand.Thetwo6mhighpou(poles)areplacedtolookeastandwesttotherisingandsettingsun.Pleasenote,thedunesroundhereareofculturalsignificanceaswellasbeingenvironmentallysensitive,sopleasedon’tgothroughunmarkedtracks. Aftercrossingthesandbridge,Tirohangaoffersyouthechancetoridetoaservicestationsellingice-creamsandrefreshments.There’salsotheexcellentTirohangaBeachMotorCamp.(www.tirohangabeachmotorcamp.co.nz) Theeasternmost4kmoftrailcontinueswindingthroughthedunes,attwopointscrossingvehicleaccessways.Justafterthe9kmmark,thetrailgoesroadsidefor1km,soifyou’reridingbacktoOpotikiandjustwanttheprettystuff,turnaroundwhenyougettothesqueezegatejustpast9km.Bikebackthesamewayasyoucame.TIP: From Memorial Park, it’s easy to add 1.5km by turning west (downriver) and riding round the stopbank trail to the Opotiki wharf. Or turn east (upstream) and head up the Otara River stopbank trail, which stretches 4km to Te Rere Pa Road and the Waioeka Domain.

withdozensofcyclists.Outofpeakseasonit’smuchquieter,oftenjustyouandanoccasionalwekascootingacrossthetrack.(NorthIslandwekaareflightlessbrownbirdsaboutthesizeofasmallchicken). After3kmofthewide,graveltrail,yougettoHikuwaiBeach.Hikuwaitranslatesdirectlyas‘tailwater’.OralstoriesoftheWhakatoheaiwi(tribe)recallhowthesplashingofthewatersherewouldsignalthearrivalofalargeschooloffish.AtHikuwai,youpassontoashortstretchofsealedaccessroad,sowatchforcars.Followthedirectionalsigns—therearesomewigglesbutoverallyou’restillheadingeastwards.Thegraveltrailresumesafter500m. Faroffshore,youcanspotMoutohora(WhaleIsland)andWhakaari(WhiteIsland).Whakaariisanactivevolcanosoitwillverylikelybebelowasteamcloud.Onthetrailitself,fromthe5kmmark,you’repassinganareawherethousandsoftreesandshrubshavebeenplantedtorestorethedunesenvironment. Afewmoretwistsandturnsandyou’reatTirohangastream,wherethere’sashelterandseating,andabridge.


At a glanceGrade Intermediate.

Distance: 67kmMatawaitothecoast.

Access: AtWaiauafromtheDunesTrailandSH35;atMatawaifromSH2.

Food: CaféinMatawai. Fortheride,takeyourown.

Toilets: Matawai;Motu;topofPakihiTrack.

Knowmore:Trailinformationandupdatesvisitwww.motutrails.co.nzandwww.facebook.com/motutrails.

Motu trails

Motu roaD trail

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Toatoa

Pacific

Ocean

Waiaua River.to Gisborne

to Opotiki to Opotiki

to East Cape

Motu

Matawai Jackson Rd

Omarumutu

Whitikau

Pakihi TrackJunction

Pakihi Track

Motu Rd

Motu Rd

Motu Falls

Meremere Hill447m

Toatoa Hill625m

Onukuroa780m

Motu Road Trail

Rere Falls Trail

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0 5 10 15km

Twenty-fiveyearsago,theMotuRoadwasfamedasakeystageintheRallyofNewZealand.In1993thestage,knownsimplyasTheMotu,waswonbythelateColinMcRae,whowentontowintheNewZealandandworldchampionships.It’sacenturysincetheMotuRoadwasfirstdriven(1915)butasearlyas1929theroadwasoutdatedbythepresent-day

statehighway.NowtheMotuRoadisbestknownasthe‘MotuRoadTrail,’anexhileratingjourneybybike(itstillcarriestheoccasionalvehicle). Theeasiestcyclingdirectionissouthtonorth.GetadropoffatMatawai(altitude550m),Motu(500m),oreventheGisborne/Opotikidistrictboundary(nearly800m).There’sastiffclimboutofMotubutafterthat,it’smostly(notall!)downhilltothecoast. BetweenMatawaiandMotu,lookfortheoldrailbridge.ThisstandstestamenttotherailwaylinethatonceedgedtowardsMotufromGisborne,andwasplannedto


connectwithOpotiki,beforetheterrainprovedtoorugged.Theexistingrailwayshutin1959. MotuCommunityHousemakesacomfortablestop,(068635804,[email protected]).TheCommunityHouseisjust5kmfromthemust-seeMotuFalls,whereaswingbridgeissuspendedhighinfrontofthecrashingwater—stunning!Overthebridge,youcanwalkintoWhinrayscenicreserve,onatrackthatwasformedinthe1800s,longbeforetheMotuRoadexisted. OppositetheCommunityHouse,checkoutthetoweringkahikatea(whitepine)tree.Thisisaremnantoftheoriginalforestthatcoveredthewholeareauntilbeingclearedforfarmlandinthelate-1800s. Alsoofhistoricnote,untilaround1934inMotu,therewasahugehotel.Itsoundsbizzarenow,butatthetime,MotuwasakeystopbetweenOpotikiandGisborne.Whenthemainroadchanged,thehotelwascutupandrelocatedtoformthepresentMatawaiandOrmond(downtowardsGisborne)hotels. RoughlymidwaybetweenMotuandthecoast,Toatoaisasecluded,highvalleywhichonceboastedaschool,postofficeandcafe.You’llfindexcellentaccommodationwithmealsatToatoaFarmStay(www.toatoaaccommodation.co.nz).Furthereastfromhere,inthe1950s,

extensiveinvestigationsweremadeintothehydroelectricpotentialoftheMoturiverandsurroundingcatchments.Ifyouareveryfitandwellprepared,theoldaccessroadtooneoftheproposeddamsitesisOtipiRoad,starting10kmfromToatoadownTakaputahiRoad.Otipiisamagicwildcountryride,climbingto900m,thendroppingtotheMotuRiver.OtipiRoadisnotpartoftheMotuTrails. BacktotheMotuRoadTrail.HeadingforOpotiki,4kmbeyondToatoayouhaveasharp1kmlongclimbtothesummitofMeremereHill,thenahugesweepingdescent,droppingover350metresthroughforest.Afterthat,thereareseveralkilometresofundulations,thenflat,beforethesealedroadresumesatWaiaua.It’s24kmfromToatoatoashelterandseatsatWaiaua,justbeforetheeasternendoftheDunesTrail.

TIP: Always take care on the Motu Road descents. It’s likely you will come across the occasional vehicle.


Motu trails

At a glance:Grade: Advanced.Distance: 21kmofsingletrackplus

gravelandsealedroad(variousoptions).

Access: One-wayforcyclists,fromMotuRoadtoPakihiRoad.Walkerscangoeitherway.

Food: Takeyourown.Toilets: MotuRoadtrailentrance;

Pakihihut;PakihiRoadend.Knowmore:Trailinformationandupdates

visitwww.motutrails.co.nzandwww.facebook.com/motutrails.

ThePakihiTrackisasensationalwildernessadventure.Itwasconstructedbyhundredsofworkersoveracenturyago,asaproposedstockroute.Inthe1990sthePakihiTrackbecameoneofNewZealand’slandmarkbackcountrybikingtrails.However,thePakihionlybecamefullyrideablewiththecreationoftheMotuTrailsin2011-2012.

pakihi traCk

Today,thePakihiTrackhas24woodenbridgesplusa32metreswingbridgeandsomeincredibletrackwork.Mostpeopletakeabouttwotofourhourstoride.It’stechnicallystraightforwardbutbecausetherearesteepdropoffsbelowthetrack,caremustbetakenatalltimesandthetrackisratedadvanced.Beawarethattherecanbeslipdamageandifindoubt,walksectionsthatworryyou.Youwon’twanttohurrythePakihianyway,suchisthequalityofthescenery. ThereareseveralkeywaystocreateaPakihiTrackexperience.Ifyou’refitandfast,youcanride‘theloop’,leavingOpotiki

35

2

2

S

FSF

OPOTIKIPakihiroad end

Pakihi Hut Otara Rd

Paci�c Ocean

Otara River

Motu Rd

road leaves river

Te Waiti Stream

Tutaetoko Stream

swingbridgePakihi Strm

Pakihi Rd

to Motu

to Opotiki to East Cape

Pakihi Track

DunesTrail

Motu Road Trail

N

0 5 10km


earlyintheday,andhookingtogethertheDunesTrail,MotuRoadTrailandPakihiTrackintorideofabitover90km.It’sabigandhillyday! Ifyou’remoreofakeencruisertype,youcandothesameloopjourneyovertwodays,stoppingatToatoaFarmStay(www.toatoaaccommodation.co.nz).Or,ridefromMatawaiandstayatMotuCommunityHouse(068635804,[email protected]),comingdownThePakihiondaytwo. PerhapsthemostpopularoptionofallistoridejustthePakihiTrack.Getshuttletransport,orarrangeyourownlift,uptotheMotuRoad.ThebestdropoffistheGisborne/Opotikiboundaryline,atalmost800maltitudeand9kmbeforethestartofthePakihi.Fromthedropoffpoint,it’salmostalldownhilltothetrackentrance,thendownhillformuchofthe21kmtrackitself.Fromtheboundarylinetotheendofthetrackisabout30km.Twocompanies,Bushaven’sMotuTrailsHire&Shuttle(hireandshuttle.co.nz),andMotuTrailsLtd(motucycletrails.com),offerconvenientdrop-off,aswellasbikehireifyouneedwheels.Orforanextrabuzz,OpotikiHelicopters([email protected])offerhelicopterdrop-offtothetopofthetrack,givingaspectacularviewoftheterrain. Ridingthetrackissomethingspecial.It’svast,unspoiledforest.Throughthetrees,yougetglimpsesoffarbush-cladslopes.

Afterthemidwaypoint,wherethePakihiHutmakesagreatstoppingpoint,youdroptothePakihiRiver—thesoundofthewateronriverrocks,insummerthecicadas,andbirdcallsallmakeforasublimeexperience.Therearefewobviouslandmarks,sousethebridgesasyourguide.Thetop11kmabovethehuthas12bridgesandbybridgesix,you’reabouthalfwaytothehut.Thelower10kmtakesyouoverbridges13to25.Bybridge19,you’reaboutthree-quartersdone. AttheendofthePakihiTrack,yourideonunsealedroadfor9km,thenontheroadanother12kmtoOpotiki.Alternatively,ifyoustartthedaywithashuttlefromBushaven’sMotuTrailsHire&Shuttle,youcanparkatTeWaiti,andenjoyalovelycyclingforestfinaleuptheTeWaitivalley.There’saccommodationatBushaven,andatWekaWilds,whereifyou’reinagroup,they’lllighttheirpizzaovenandserveupatreat(wekawilds.co.nz). IfyourideontoOpotiki,ontheoutskirtsoftown,turnoffOtaraRoadontoTeRerePaRoad.ThistakesyouontotheprettyOtaraRiverstopbanktrail,andafter4kmyou’rebackatMemorialPark.

TIP: Riding back towards Opotiki, soon after the start of the sealed road, an option is to cross the Otara River road bridge onto Otara East Road. This half-unsealed road is much more interesting than the sealed Otara Road. It’s also more sheltered from the northerly, though undulating.


At a glance

Grade: Intermediate.

Distance: 10kmeachway,fromtheWaiauaendoftheDunesTrail.

Access: GaskillRdintersectionoffMotuRoad,Waiaua.

Food: Servicestationshop/caféatTirohanga.

ThisisaneatwaytoextendaDunesTrailrideintosomethingabitmoreenergetic.RidetothestartoftheMotuRoad,thenjustafterWaiauamaraeandchurch(1.5kmfromthecoast),GaskillRoadturnsofftotheright(west).

Motu trails explorer

bloCk aCCess roaD

There’salongstraightforabout800m,thencrosstheWaiauaRiver.Turnleftimmediatelyafterthebridge,andridesouthwards.Thesealsoonendsandtheroadveerstotherightandupwards.Youclimbtoabout80m,thoughneversteeply,beforehittingthegrassyridgeline,withlovelyfarmandforestviews. Afteraslightdescent,youkickintothemainclimbofBlockAccessRoad.Inabout


RIDE THE MIGHTY MOTU TRAILSWITH MOTU TRAILS HIRE & SHUTTLE

• Two 11 Seater shuttle buses • Mountain bike hire• Knowlegable drivers • Purpose built bike trailors• Secure parking • Luggage/Raft/Canoe trailors• Shuttles from Bushaven & Opotiki • Bike wash• Custom guided tours/charters • Showers/Toilets• Group discounts • Accomodation and camping @ Bushaven

• Group shuttles return from - Tirohanga, Waiota hi, Oh iwa, Ohope, Whakatane, Rotorua, Tauranga & Gisborne• Self contained accommodation & camping right inside the Urutawa Forest Reserve, set alongside the pristine Te Waiti Stream

0800 MOTU TRAILS(0800 66 8887)w hireandshuttle.co.nze [email protected] Church st, Opotiki & Bushaven, Te Waiti Stream Rd, Urutawa Forest

100%Locally Owned

& Operated

v360

st47

0228

-14

We offer self-contained units along with twin, double and dorm accommodation. Fully equipped self catering kitchen, barbecue and outdoor dining.Email access also available.

Phone: 07 308 8040Mobile: 027 2707495Address: 10 Merritt Street, WhakataneEmail: [email protected] www.windsorlodge-backpackers.co.nz

The WindsorLodge - Back Packers

Cycling Special

OfferStay 2 nights

for only$40 perperson

Relax on our sunny veranda after a day of cycling. Enjoy our garden and peaceful atmosphere.Treat yourself with a delicious pizza from ourstone oven (on request) or get the BBQ going.

Great bush walks and beautiful beaches around here. Go fishing or collect your own seafood.

• Closest to Motu Trail/ Dunes Trail start• Bike stand • Bike wash facilities

• Off road parking • Internet • Central Heating• Close to town • Close to bus stop

Central Oasis Homestay

Booking enquiries: Andrea and Volker GrindelEmail: [email protected]

Phone: 07 315 5165Address: 30 King Street, Opotiki 3122

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Central-Oasis-Backpacker/168953626493878

4 Rooms

Max. Cap: 14 people

Affordable prizes

Welcome to our charming Kauri villa

3kmyouclimbtoabout200m,withforestoverhead.Youreachgates,beyondwhichisforestrylandsoyouneedtoturnaroundandreturnthesameway,thoughsoon,thispointmaylinkuptotheOldMilitaryTrack.Beawarethatloggingtrucksmaybeusingtheroad.

TIP: Riding inland on the Motu Road, just before the seal ends, you can turn left onto Omarumutu Road to create a pretty, undulating loop that’s sealed all the way. From Opotiki, a loop around Motu and Omarumutu Roads creates a ride of about 35km.


Gisborne

kaiti to Wainui CyCleWay

The1.7kmWainuitoKaiticyclewaywasofficiallyopenedinlate-2014.Constructionofstagetwo,fromSpongeBaytotheGisbornecityboundary,isplannedtobeginin2015-2016.Thiswillgivesafeaccessforlocalsandvisitors,tobike,runorwalkbetweenWainuiandthecity. Thetrailfeaturesamemorialgardenandseatingarea,dedicatedtolong-timeWainuiresidentMurielJones—whoenvisionedtheideaofacyclewayin1994.MrsJoneswasalongtimeadvocateandPatronoftheGisborneCycleandWalkwayTrust.TIP: From the Oneroa Road end of the cycleway, you can continue riding on the quiet Wairere Road — staying off State Highway 35.

At a glance:Grade: Easy.

Distance: 1.7kmofshared-usepavedtrack.

Access: OneroaRoad;SpongeBay.

Food: WainuiStoreand Takeaway,OneroaRoad.


Gisborne

alFreD Cox CyCle & WalkWay

The1.6km3metrewideAlfredCoxcycleandwalkwaywasofficiallyopenedon19December2013.AwapuniSchoolchildrenperformedapowhiritowelcomevisitorsoverthenewpedestrianbridgeandMayorMengFooncuttheribbon. ThereisaccesstothewalkwayfromAnzacSt,GreyStandStanleyRd.AtimberarchbridgeacrosstheWaikanaeStreamconnectstheparktoAwapuniSchool.SeatingareasonthepathwayincludeoneatthemagnificentfigtreeonAnzacStreet,thoughttobethelargestintheregion.ParkingspaceswereinstalledonAnzacStreetneartheentrancetothewalkway.

Superb inner city accomodationoverlooking the harbour.

A few minutes walk to city centre,restaurants, cafes and beaches.

24 Reads Quay, Gisborne06 867 8847

[email protected]


Whataupoko park & MillMore Forest

WhataupokoParkisagreatcentralCitymountainbikepark,builtonaformerareathathasbeenforestedtoprotectanearbyresidentialsuburbfromslips.TheareawasseverelyaffectedbyslipsduringcycloneBolain1989anditwasclearthathousesinthesuburbwereatrisk. Gisbornethusunexpectledlygainedanewpark,thatisverypopularwithlocalwalkers,runnersandcyclists.Veryhandy

Whataupoko at a glance:Grade: Easy-intermediate.

Distance: 5kmofsharedusetrails.

Access: KeyaccessisFoxStreet.

Food: You’reclosetoalltheoptionsofGisbornecity.

Gisborne

tothecentreofGisborne.Thetrailsareshareduse,mostofthesearewide.Theyarewindythough!Careisrequiredonalltrailsasthereareahighnumberoptionsinasmallarea,andit’sapopularspot.SomenewlyformedinformaltracksareverynarrowandsteepandrequireAplusskills.

Tip: Whataupoko Park provides quick and convenient opportunities for spins in the forest with the added appeal of some excellent sea views, it’s well worth a visit.


AtMillmoreForestyou’llfindabout15kmoftrailsandforestryroad,createdbyGisborneMTBClubonprivateforestryland.Theterrainisrollingandyouhavetheoptionoffamilyfriendlyriding,suchas‘EasyTrail’allthewayuptochallengingtrackslike‘JohnnyBGoode’.Theforesthasbeendescribedas‘oldschool’riding,intheverybestsenseofthephrase—nottoogroomed,nottoocrowded,arealsenseoffreedom.

Millmore at a glance:Grade: Intermediate-advanced.

Distance: 15kmofsingletrackandforestaccessroad.

Access: EndofMandersRoad,whichturnsoffWaimataValleyRoad,about15minsdrivefromGisborne.

Food: Bringyourown.

Senator Motor InnQuality motel accommodation in Gisborne

Our modern harbour side motel is just a two minute walk to Central Gisborne’s shops, bars, cafes, restaurants and close to most of Gisborne’s cycleways.each of our spacious self contained suites has its own balcony with views over the bustling inner harbour marina.From here you can take a relaxing riverside walk/ride along the riverside walk/cycleway to the spectacular Waikanae and Midway beaches in one direction or along the riverside walk/cycleway alongside the rivers in the other direction.We also have secure storage for your bikes

Freephone: 0800 2SENATOR or 0800 273 628 • Phone: 06 868 [email protected] • www.senatormotorinn.co.nz

2 Childers Rd Gisborne

Becausethisisprivatelandyoumusthaveapass.VisitAvantiPlusMaintraxonRoebuckRoadorBikeysonBrightStreettopurchaseyourpass($10oneweek,$20all-year)andgetyourmapandMillmoreForestinformation.Tip: If you’re wanting a sealed road ride, the Tiniroto Road offers superb views. It starts at the roundabout where State Highway 2 crosses the Waipaoa River at Matawhero and provides an inland route with little traffic all the way to Wairoa, some 90 kilometres away. There is a pub halfway at Tiniroto. Serious Gisborne cyclists use Tiniroto for climbing the summit of 360 metre high Gentle Annie, some 20 km’s from the roundabout. A great backcountry ride.

Photo courtesy of Gisborne Herald


At a glance:

Grade: Intermediate.

Distance: 103kmwith28kmunsealed.

Access: FromSH2nearMatawaiandfrommultiplepointsnearGisborne.

Food: CaféinMatawai; EastwoodHillrefreshments

availableduringofficehours.

Toilets: Matawai;RereRockSlide;RereFalls;EastwoodHill.

rere Falls trail

RereFallsTrailtakesyoufromGisbornetoMatawai,adistanceof103km.NearGisborne,thetrailmeandersthewineriesandmaizefieldsofthefertilePovertyBayFlats.

EastwoodhillistheNationalArboretumofNewZealand,45kmfromGisborne.Hereyou’llfindastunningdisplayofexoticandnativetrees,withwalkingtracksacrossthe135hectaregardens.ThenaturalRereRockslideandthespectacularRereFallsareabout60kmfromGisborne. FromReretoMatawai,theroadisunsealed,crossesremotesheepfarmsandhassomebigclimbs.Therearenosettlements.FromEastwoodhilltherearenoshopsofcafesalongtheway,soyouwillneedtowellpreparedandselfsufficient.

Gisborne


2392 Wharekopae Road RD 2 Ngatapa Gisborne 4072

Eastwoodhill Arboretum, the National Arboretum of New Zealand, encompasses 135 hectares of exotic and native trees, shrubs and climber plantings. Whether tackling the Motu Trail or the Rere Falls Trail, Eastwoodhill is a must-do. A picturesque drive or ride through vineyards and farmland will lead you to the largest and most comprehensive collection of Northern Hemisphere trees, south of the equator.

25 kms of stunning trail walks for all levels of fitness.

4WD tours.

Over 40 species of native and exotic birds.

Book our accommodation online.

Venue hire and catering services available.

Bookings essential. Open daily 9am-5pm. Adults $15, Senior citizens (over 65) or students with ID $12, Children 5–12 $2. Children under five no charge with paying adult. No dogs allowed.

www.eastwoodhill.org.nz06 863 9003

Discover our amazing natural playground.

Gladstone Rd

35

2

EitherStudio Room (for 2) with king bed with

tea/coffee making facilitiesor

Bedroom unit with either super king bedsor single beds or a combination

(for a maximum of 5) with full kitchen.

Games room/meeting room to talkover the day’s action with an outside area

to perhaps enjoy a BBQ dinner.

Colonial on Gladstoneoffers a warm, relaxed athmosphere which isreflected in our 11 spacious units. Complete

with modern conveniences, these peacfulunits offer a relaxing garden setting to further

enhance what will be a memorable stay.


Gisborne - Wairoa

hiDDen GeMs oF tiniroto roaD

Katrina of Gisborne Cycle Tours near Hangaroa River

Hackfalls Arboretum is a truly hidden gem sitting on the banks of a beautiful small lake

AcyclingtripfromGisbornetoWairoaalongthesereneTinirotoRoadisnotjustawonderfultripitalsounlockshiddenruraltreats.TherideisalsosaferandeasierthanthemainStateHighway2routethroughMorereandNuhaka,eventhoughitissomefivekilometreslonger.TheTinirotoroutestillrequiresreasonablefitness,astherearetwomajorhillsandnumeroussmallerones.ThedistancebetweenGisborneandWairoa(some100km)isalsochallenging,butovernightstayshalfwayatTinirototownshiparepossible. TinirotoRoadbranchesoffStateHighway2at11kmssouthofGisborneattheroundaboutneartheWaipaoaRiver.LocalridersavoidthebusytrafficbyusingthesignpostedRereFallsrideroutealongNelsonRoad,TuckerRoad,PilmerRoad,FarmerRoad,BushmereRoadandBloomfieldRoad

FromtheroundaboutTinirotoRoadtraversesthePovertyBayFlats,initiallyinastraightlinealongkiwifruitplantationsandvineyardsincludingthosefortheiconic“P”brand(for nearby Patutahi)gewürztraminer. ThegentlerisebecomessteeperafterBruntonRoadbeforeTinirotoRoadabruptlyrisessteeplyatthesouthernhillsframingthefertileFlats.ThisisGentleAnnie,afourkilometreriseto360metres,andfavouritetraininggroundfortheGisborneCycleClubfanatics.Don’tbeputoffbytheeffortittakestorideupthishill.GentleAnnieisthehardestpartofthisride. AftertheforestsofGentleAnnietheroadtraverseslonelysheepandbeeffarmstations,andthewildHangaroaRivervalley.40kmsaftertheroundaboutasignpostedsideroadtakesyoutostunningDoneraillePark,apopularcampingsite(information available from Gisborne District Council) with spectacularriverswimmingopportunities.Amust,buttheslightdetourwillrequireanadditional100metreclimboutoftherivervalley.


Hans van Kregten and publican Colin at Tiniroto tavern

AfterjoiningTinirotoRoadagain,itkeepsclimbingto440metresbeforedroppingsteeplytoTinirototownship,49kmsfromtheroundabout.ThemainattractiontocyclistsisthequaintTinirotoTavern.Themealsherehaveastellarreputationinthelocalcommunityandthebeersarenotbadeither.Thetavernhaslimitedaccommodationoptions. Justfourkilometreswestofthetavern,onagoodqualitygravelroadisHackfallsArboretum.Thisisatrulyhiddengemsittingonthebanksofabeautifulsmalllake. Establishedbythenow98yearoldBobBerryandrecentlyawardedtheprestigiousBritishRoyalHorticulturalSociety’sVeitchmedal,thearboretumishometothelargestcollectionofquercus(oak)intheSouthernHemisphereandincludes3500differentspeciessuchaspoplar,oakandmaples.Inspringandautumnthecoloursarestunningandthereisacottageavailableforwearycyclistslookingforovernightaccommodation.

FromTiniroto,the40kmstoWairoaaremainlydownhill.ThelastareparalleltothescenicWairoaRiver,andthereisanotherpubatMarumaruforreplenishments.TinirotoRoadends8kmsbeforeWairoaonStateHighway38whichwilltemptriderstocheckoutLakeWaikaremoana.MostwillwiselyoptforarecuperationstopatWairoafirst.

Tiniroto Tavern is an old style county tavern with great backpackers accommodation for everyone and cyclists are especially welcome.

Meals available if required though there is a great BBQ area for you to use as well.

Relax in the friendly atmosphere and have a beer outside and look at the wonderful scenery.

Tiniroto Tavern

Ph: 06 863 7019Email: [email protected]

2 School Road, Tiniroto 4044

Affordable accommodation

Great food

Friendly atmosphere

The property is also a working sheep and cattle station, which means you get to experience this flourishing arboretum within a picturesque East Coast farm setting. You can stay in the arboretum’s own comfortable two-bedroom unit. This home away from home features a fully-equipped kitchen, living/dining area and bathroom.

Ph/Fax: 06 863 7083Email: [email protected]

Website: www.hackfalls.org.nz187 Berry Road, Tiniroto, Gisborne

Hackfalls is not only one of the

the best arboreta in NZ, Hackfalls

boasts a variety of spectacular walking

tracks, lakes and garden to visit.


Great east Cape tour

east Cape ride

TheGreatEastCapeTourisamustdoforNewZealandroadcyclingtourists. Thisiswhereyoucanparkyourbikenearthebeach,observetheplumeoftheactivevolcanoofWhiteIslandsixtykilometresfromshore,andbeinvitedtoabarebackhorseridebyMaorikidsneartheirvillagewheretheirparentskeeptheirtribeshomefiresburning.ThisisalsothepartofAotearoa-NewZealandwhereMaoriisspokenonadailybasis.IfyouareluckyenoughyoumayimproveyourabilitytounderstandTeReo,orevenspeakit. OryoucancontemplatelifeinandaroundstunningchurchesinidyllicseasidesettingsorwithstunningMaoricarving.Youwillneedtotakeyourtime.Masstourismisnotknownhere.Todiscoverthetreasuresof

theGreatEastCapeTouryouneedtomakeanefforttoseeallthesitesandgaintheconfidenceofthelocals. Youwillalsoneedtobereasonablyfit.Andsensible.Therideinvolvesseriousdistancesandsometoughhills.Itcanbeveryhotinsummer,soitpaystotravellightandconservativelysothatthereistime,flexibilityandenergytoexploreandenjoythesitesandlocalhospitality. OurridestartsinGisborne,thelaidbackcapitaloftheEastCoastandthelastplacewithbikeshopsandbigsupermarketsuntilOpotiki,334kmaway.Makesuretostayhereatleastacoupleordays,enjoythesteadilyexpandingrangeoflocalbiketracksandmaybeclimb,bybikeorfoot,KaitiHill/TitirangiwhichoffersgreatviewsoverPovertyBay,inaptlynamedbyBritishexplorerJamesCookwhofailedtoaccesswaterhere.InfactPovertyBayhastherichestsoilsinNewZealandandthrivinghorticultureandviticulture.Thehillisalsotheplaygroundforfitlocals,whorunandrideupittokeeptheirfitnesslevelsup.

At a glance:Grade: All.

Distance: Amassive500kilometrepluslooparoundtheRaukumarapeninsula,thelandmassprotrudingtowardstheEastCape.

Access: GisbornefromthesouthandOpotikifromthenorth.

General: Thisistherideouroverseastouristsraveabout.Thereare,often,emptyroads,desertedbaysandbeachesandfriendlyunhurriedlocals.

Captain Cook - Gisborne

Contributed by Hans van Kregten The Gisborne Cycle Tour Company


RidingtothenorthalongStateHighway35anewcycletrackstartsaboutthreekilometresfromtheCityCentreandleadstothesurfingcommunityofWainui.BesttoridethroughWainuiandavoidthesuburb’sinlandbypasswherecartrafficspeedscanbehigh,althoughthespeedlimithasrecentlybeenreducedto80kilometresperhour. InWainui(4kmfromGisborne)youshouldtaketimetooglethemostexpensiveresidentialrealestateinGisborne.Notsurprisingitisontheseasidepartoftheroad. TakecaretocrossandjointhemainhighwayattheendoftheroadinWainuiandproceedtoOkitu,anotherseasidesuburbwithgreatoceanviews.AlsowatchoutforloggingtruckswhichoperatebetweenhereandtheareasaroundTolagaBayandTokomaruBay.Ifyoucan,ridethissectionintheweekends,whenloggingtrafficismuchreducedorabsent.Keepanearoutforthesetrucks,andkeepleftandinsinglefilewhenyouheartruckengines. AtthenorthernendofOkituyouwillstrikethefirsthillinlandoftheMakororiHeadland.Itisnotparticularlysteeporlong,butatasteofthingstocome.Ifyoucan’thandlethishillcomfortably,youwon’tenjoythegreatEastCapebiketourandyoushouldamendyourplansthereandthen.

Makaroribeachisheavenforsurfers.JustpastthehilltopofMakororiHeadlandisagreatspottowatchthesurferscatchwavesthatare,attimes,simplymassive. AnotherhillwaitsnorthofMakororibeachbeforegoingdownatTatapouri(13km),wherethereisgreatplacetowatch,orevenexperience,stingrayatDiveTatatouri.Forthenextsixkilometresorso,theroadfollowstheoceanuntilPouawa,homeofTeTapuwaeoRongokakoMarineReserve.Pitywhenyouforgottopackgogglesandflippers,butstillaniceplaceforaquickstop. FromPouawaStateHighway35turnsinlandtoTolagaBay(55km),butnotbeforetwohills(PanikauandLoisels)havebrokenyourrhythm.AtthebottomofPanikauyoucanmakeashortsidetouralongPaRoadtoWhangaravillageandadmirewheretheinternationallyratingmovieWhaleRiderwasfilmed.

Surfing at Wainui Beach Gisborne Tolaga Bay Wharf

Stingray feed - Dive Tatapouri


TolagaBayisagoodplaceforashortorlongerstop.Amustdoisthe660metrelongwharf,systematicallydescribedasthelongestpierinthesouthernhemisphereandanicespottowatchpeoplefishandkidsjumpintothesea. ThewharfonceusedtotransportsheeptoGisborneandbeyond,literallywasindangeroffallingintotheseabecausebeachsandwasusedwhenmixingtheconcrete,andthesand’ssaltattackedthemetalrods.Along-termrestorationprojecthasnowsecuredthepier,andtheentryareahasrecentlybeenbeautified,givingthewharfevenmoreprestige. ThenearbyCooksCovewalkwayisabeautifulwalkifyouarestillfeelingenergeticandinneedofdoingsomethingphysicalthatavoidssaddlesores.TolagaBayalsohasshops,cafes,andovernightaccommodation. FromTolagathehighwayturnsinlandagain.Somesideroadsleadtodelightfulandoftendesertedbeaches,butonlytheroadtoKaiauaissealed.AcoupleofhoursnorthofTolagaisTokomaruBay(91km).SixkilometresbeforethisbeautifulBayisBusby’sHill,oneofthesteepestclimbsontheEastCapeTour.Thankfully,itisnotthatlong,butwhenyouarenegotiatingit,youwillnotagreewiththatstatement. Whenyou’vemasteredBusby,yousurelywillhaveearnedabeeratTePukaTavern,twokilometresnorthofTokomaru

Bay’scentre,alongthebeachroadtoWaimaandtheTokomaruBaywharf,whichunfortunatelyisinasadstate,justasthenearbyformerfreezing(slaughterhouse)works.Itwasbuiltover100yearsago,andhandled500sheepand60cattlebeastsperday.Stocknumbershavefallenandimprovedroadsmadethewharfsuperfluous,justlikeatTolagaBay.PlanstorestoreTokomaru’shistorictreasurersarebeingdeveloped,butfundingissueswillbechallenging. ButTePukaTavernhasoneofthebestviewsinNewZealand,andchancesarethatyouwillstopformorethanonebrew.Enjoythis,andthememoryofbeach,beerandbaywilllinger. Ifthelureofthebeersistoomuch,youshouldstayattheBayovernight.ThenexttenuphillkilometrestoTePuiaSprings(101km)requireafinelytunedbody.ThisrunningsectionisthelastobstacleofthelocallyfamousEastCoastDuathlonfromGisborne(a100kilometrerunningandbikingevent),andtherelentlessclimbhasreducedthestrideofmanyfineathletesfromimpressivemightyleapstosadstumbleswithinthespaceofafewkilometres. TePuiaSprings,asmallcentrewithahospital,agolfcourseandaGisborneDistrictCouncilofficewithtouristinformation,hasahotelwithhotspringsandatakeawayshop.AdetourtobeautifulWaipiroBay,withmoreremnantsof

Hans van Kregten and Anelia Evans climbing Panikau HillKaiuau beach horses photo by Ian Trafford


abandonedfreezingworksisworthwhile,butwilladdsomekilometresandinvolveextrahillclimbing. NextstopisRuatoria(128km),thelargestsettlementontheEastCoast.RuatoriaisalsoagoodplacefromwheretowalkupMountHikurangi.ThisisthespiritualhomeoflocalMaoriiwiNgatiPorou,thehighestnonvolcanicmountainintheNorthIslandandthefirstplaceintheworldtoseethesuncomeupbeforeSamoachangedtheInternationalDateLine.Theclimbtakesatleastaday,butanovernightstayatthehut(bookatNgatiPorouTourism,068648660)400metresbelowthesummitwillmakecatchingtheday’sfirstraysaloteasier. AtTikitiki(147km),don’tforgettoadmireStMary’schurch,builtin1920tocommemoratelocalsoldierswhodidnotsurvivetheslaughteroftheFirstWorldWar,literallyhalfaworldawayfromhere.Thechurchisprettyontheoutsideandstunningindoors,decoratedwithcarvings,

tukutukupanelsandstainedglasswindowswithMaorimotifs.Thechurchisanationaltreasureinanunlikely,remoteplace. TheroadbetweenTikitikiandTeAraroa(174km)ischallengingbecauseofitssteepclimbs,buttherewardsatTeAraroaandnearbyHicksBay(189km)areample.Theareaisstunninglybeautiful.FromTeAraroaanunsealedroadtakesyoueasttotheEastCapelighthouse,abeautifulspot,butmanycyclistswillgivethisamiss,asthereisnocircularroutetoreachthislandmark. HicksBayhasanotherwharfthatneedsrepair,plusbeautifulOnepoto(Horseshoe)Bay,whichisagreatplaceforasafeswim.AtHicksBaythereisalsoalargemotelwitharenownedrestaurant,andthepossibilitytowatchglowwormsatnighttime. FromHicksBayStateHighway35runsinlandforsome30kilometresandcrosseslocalgovernment(Gisborne-BayofPlenty)andMaoritribal(NgatiPorou-TeWhanauaApanui)boundariesbeforereachingthecoastagainatWhangaparoa(216km).FromherethereisalongbeachstretchingallthewaytoCapeRunaway. FromheretoOpotiki,theroadisneverfarfromtheseaandridingabikealongthissectionoftheEastCapeTourissimplyasgoodasitgets.Don’tforgettohaveafishandchipsmealatthebeautifulhotelatWaihauBay(218km)andtakeyourphotographwiththebackdropofthestunning120yearoldChristChurchatthepromontoryatRaukokere.Thatimagewillbecomean

Hikurangi Hero photo courtesy Ngati Porou Tourism

First sunrise in the world - East Cape Lighthouse


iconicreminderofyourEastCoastjourney.WhanaruaBay(246km)hasbeenmentionedastheprettiestbayinNewZealand.Ithasasubtropicalmicroclimateandamacadamiaorchard,andgreatswimmingandsnorkeling. TeKaha(264km)wasonceathrivingwhaling,thendairyfactorysettlement.Thesedaysitseconomyiscentredonkiwifruitorchardsandtourism.AnotherhighlightistheMotuRiver(290km)whichflowsintotheBayofPlentyhere.Don’tmisstheopportunitiestomakeastunningjetboatrideupthisunspoiledriverthroughendlessindigenousforestland.LastcenturytherewereplanstodamtheMotuwhichhasafallof487metresoverits110kilometreruntogenerateelectricitybutthoseplanswereshelved.Itiscertainthatifthesewereeverdustedoffagain,massiveprotestswouldresult. FromTirohanga(328km)youcanridethefinalsixkilomtresintoOpotikialongthenewcoastaldunestrack,partoftheMotuCycle

networkbetweenGisborneandOpotiki.Mostofnetwork’stracksandroadsarenotsuitableforroadbikes,butthedunetrackis,anditisastunningdiversionawayfromtheasphalt.Sadlyitisrathershort. ThroughthedunestrackyouwillreachOpotikiacrossthenewcyclebridgePakowhaikiOtutaopukunicknamedtheGoldenGate.OpotikiisthelargestcentreafterGisborneontheGreatEastCoastTour,andhasallfacilitiesyouwillneed,includingbikeshopsandsupermarkets. FromOpotikiyoucanmakeyourwaybacktoGisbornethroughStateHighway2alongtheWaioekaGorge.ThisroadisbusierthanStateHighway35,butthetrafficlevelsarestillrelativelybenign.Takecareonthenarrowersections,andwherevisibilityislimited.BetweenOpotikiandMatawai,gradientsaremostlyeasy,apartfromthesteepriseuptoTraffordsHill(725metres),neartheboundarybetweenGisborneandtheBayofPlentyregions. Afewkilometressouthofthis,whereHighway2StatecrossestheMotuRiver,analternativeandbeautifullongersignpostedNewZealandcycletrailsdiversionroutereachesGisborneafter110kilometresthroughRereFalls,andEastwoodhillArboretum,butsome45kilometresofthatroutearenotsealed,andtherearenoshops. Matawaihasaccommodation,acoffeeandtakeawayshop,andisaconvenientlunchorovernightstop.FromMatawai,some500metresabovesealevel,theridetoGisborneiseasy,apartfromthelittlegrindupOtokohill,halfwaybetweenMatawaiandTeKarakawheretherearemoreshops.FromTeKaraka,StateHighway2followstheWaipaoaRiver,isofeasygradientandcrossesthePovertyBayFlatswithitsmanyvineyards,theviewofwhichwillnodoubtgeneratethirstyfeelingsofthecyclistsfinishingtheirGreatEastCoastTourwithGisborneapproachingfast.Norm Graham, Gisborne’s Dr Bike

East Cape Lighthouse aerial view


Hauraki

railtrailhauraki

Rail Trail

Some of the best cycling and walking in New ZealandIncluding: Whirinaki, Whakatane, Opotiki,

Gisborne & East Cape also featuring The Motu Trails

Eastland / Bay of Plenty

2

Wainui Beach

Te Puia Springs

Tikitiki

Ohope

Hicks Bay

Te Kaha

Gisborne

35

35

Wairoa

Ohiwa

Whakatane

Rere Falls Trail

Opotiki

Motu Trails

Matawai

2

2

Cycling Tracks • Walking Tracks • Mountain Bike Trails • All Tracks n Trails

Cycling Tracks • Walking Tracks • Mountain Bike Trails • All Tracks n Trails

Promote your business to the fastest growing tourism market in New Zealand. Over 1million Kiwis now ride bikes on a regular basis and cycling is fast becoming our favourite holiday destination.

Cycling

Tracks • Walking

Tracks • Mo

untain Bike Trails

Cycling

Tracks • Walking

Tracks • Mo

untain Bike Trails

Phone: 07 868 2703 • [email protected]

This one or two day escape combining nature, gourmet food and wine starts in the hills and travels, mainly downhill over 65 - 70 km of quiet rural sealed roads. The tour takes you via the fabulous Rere rockslide and falls, Eastwoodhill Arboretum, the national arboretum of New Zealand, and some of Gisborne’s finest wineries. Spend a tranquil night at Eastwoodhill, take a tour, or just sit back and enjoy this magic spot.

ONE or TWO-DAY RERE VIA EASTWOODHILL ARBORETUM DOWNHILL CYCLE TOUR

“Cycle up an appetite”

06 927 7021info@ gisbornecycletours.co.nz www.gisbornecycletours.co.nz

This cultural tour takes you on a journey through our city, the first to see the light and also the first to greet discoverer Captain James Cook. Complete with a bicycle a local guide and all the gear you need for the day you will be taken back over 600 years and learn about the settlement of our city by Maori and more latterly Europeans. Your guide, a true story teller will enchant you with family legends.

We can work with you to design a perfect adventure for you, your family and friends.

Our vineyard cycle tours visit boutique wineries and other interesting destinations on the luscious Poverty Bay flats. Meet the winemakers as you travel from winery to winery and enjoy a delicious local vineyard platter or gourmet picnic at one of our local vineyards. Our comfortable low step full suspension bikes with padded gel seats are just what you need to make your way around the wineries. We tailor all our tours to set our customer’s needs.Guided, self-guided, half-day, full-day all is possible just talk to one of our friendly staff…

THE GOURMET VINEYARD TOUR CAPTAIN COOK CITY CULTURAL TOUR

Documents

Eastland/Bay of Plenty