Ride stunning parts of rural North Island New Zealand you never knew existed on this fully supported Wairarapa and Hawkes Bay Backroads cycling trip. Bike along purpose-built cycleways, quiet rural roads and easy unsealed trails with picturesque postcard views through wine country, farmland and forest. Ride gently up the leafy Hutt Valley and over the forested Remutaka Ranges and visit the historic Martinborough Hotel, in the heart of Pinot Noir wine country. Head to Masterton on a pleasant touring route, enjoying stunning Wairarapa views of vineyards and farmland. Meet rare, New Zealand wildlife at the Mt Bruce National Wildlife Centre and enjoy the world-class Hawkes Bay wines in between pedalling on purpose-built bike paths.
Starting in Wellington you’ll head over the Remutaka Ranges on an easy gradient trail, dropping down into the first wine region, Martinborough.
You'll enjoy easy riding on the Hawke’s Bay trails through vineyards and orchards, tackle Te Mata peak by bike or hitch a ride in the van, and explore Havelock North, one of New Zealand's most picturesque small towns. Over to the Manawatu via the stunning Gentle Annie, you’ll bike the delightful Manawatu cycleway and can choose to enjoy a scenic rafting trip on the Rangitaiki River or a horseback ride through stunning back country.
Staying at some unique, historic properties along the way, you’ll enjoy warm hospitality in some very special places, well away from the noise, distraction and chronic busyness of every day.
The Wairarapa and Hawke's Bay Backroads tour is graded introductory. The trails are not technical but you will need to be comfortable riding on a mix of dedicated cycle paths, sealed back roads and unsealed trails. You'll need to be able to ride 3-4 hours comfortably at a time. Good preparation, fitness and practice riding on off-road trails will add to your enjoyment of the tour.