3 Day Hawke's Bay Loop Tour

Itinerary Details

1. Day 1Ahuriri to Havelock North

   Departing Napier’s port village of Ahuriri, it’s a short distance (5 km/3.1 mi) to the Napier CBD, famed for its Art Deco style. Lock up your bike at the information centre and take a stroll around the town to take in the fascinating facades and distinctive architectural styles of the 1930s. Continuing along the seafront you follow Marine Parade lined with the iconic Norfolk palm trees that are so recognised as a symbol of Napier. You’ll pass by the statue of the Spirit of Napier, which represents the city rising from the ashes of the 1931 earthquake, and David Trubridge’s magnificent Ecliptic monument, celebrating the new millennium.

   On reaching the Horseshoe Wetlands where the Tutaekuri and Ngaruroro rivers reach the sea, you’re very likely to see kite surfers, fishermen and white-baiters making the most of this unique environment. Enjoy refreshments in Clive before following the Clive River to the East Clive Wetlands. It’s worth taking some time to sit on one of the viewing benches along the trail to observe the many native birds and flocks of black swans which inhabit the area.

   From Black Bridge, a detour to the coastal communities of Haumoana and Te Awanga give you the opportunity to visit the excellent wineries of Elephant Hill and Clearview Estate, or perhaps the British Car Museum. Returning to the Tuki Tuki River the last part of today’s cycle is through apple orchard and vineyard country to the bustling, stylish village of Havelock North where you will spend your first night.

   
   

   Click here to download a full-sized version of the trail map.

   • 18.6 - 28 miles
   • Accommodation in Havelock North
   • Breakfast

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     Millennium Arch

     Located on Marine Parade in Napier, this sculpture was designed to be in the exact position the sun rose on the dawn of the new millennium

2. Day 2Havelock North to Taradale via the River Trails and Wineries

   This morning you will enjoy a pleasant ride through flat farmland on the outskirts of Havelock North. A visit to the renowned Birdwoods Gallery and Sweet Shop is highly recommended! Arriving in the world acclaimed Ngatarawa Gimblett Gravels vineyard region (20 km/12.4 mi), there’s much to enjoy as you spend some time focusing on the wonderful cellar doors of the area. Those offering wine tastings include Ngatarawa, Trinity Hill, Te Awa and Unison Estate. Leaving the wineries behind, join the Ngaruroro River Trail at Fernhill and cycle through apple orchard and farming country to Pakowhai Country Park. At this point, leave the Ngaruroro Trail and link onto the Tutaekuri River Trail for the final 10 km (6.2 mi) into Taradale.
   

   • 18.6 - 31.1 miles
   • Accommodation in Taradale
   • Breakfast
3. Day 3Taradale to Ahuriri via Puketapu and the Estuary Trail

   Today you spend the morning cycling the scenic 20 km (12.4 mi) ‘Puketapu Loop’ trail. A real favourite with locals as well as visitors, the trail follows the Tutaekuri River west to the rural community of Puketapu; its classic Kiwi pub is a great stop for refreshments. Visits to the historic Otatara Maori Pa site, Moana Park winery, the Silky Oaks Chocolate Factory and two extra special winery visits are all features of this final day.

   The much-awarded Church Rd Winery offers tastings and winery tours before you move a further 500m (1640ft) up the road to New Zealand’s oldest winery, The Mission Estate. The beautiful building which houses the cellar door and restaurant not only survived the 1931 earthquake but also a move up the hill from its original site on the flood-prone lowlands a few kms away, so is definitely worth a visit.

   • 15.5 - 31.1 miles
   • Breakfast