The Remutaka Rail Trail is one of the region’s most rewarding off-road trails. It can be ridden end to end (allow 4-5 hours) or broken up into two smaller sections - beginning and finishing on the Wellington side of the Remutaka Ranges or beginning and finishing on the Wairarapa side of the ranges.
Learn more, check out our handy FAQ's, check the status of the track here before you begin your journey and hire your bikes.
Other great day rides are:
A gentle cruise: Petone to Maymorn 3-5 hours
Easy 35 kms
Begin at Petone’s foreshore after fuelling up at nearby Jackson St, a popular and picturesque street filled with boutiques, cafés, bars and restaurants. Ride north on a flat, off road cycle path alongside the Hutt River. They are plenty of picnic and swimming spots along the way. To make it a one way ride catch the train from Maymorn Railway Station back to Petone. This is an easy ride for all abilities.
The Wild Coast
This section can be broken into two rides, or done in one day:
Featherston to Ocean beach to Orongorongo
Mixed Grade 63 kms 6–8 hours
Cross Creek to Ocean Beach
Intermediate 36 kms 2-3 hours
Ocean Beach to Orongorongo
Advanced 18kms 3-5 hours
Either start this day ride from Featherston following Western Lake Road, which has some dedicated cycleway sections, or get dropped off at Ocean Beach which will trim two hours or more off the ride. Ride past the shores of Lake Wairarapa, through rolling countryside and past the turn-off to Wharekauhau Country Estate and prepare to be wowed.
If your ride finishes at Ocean Beach you can catch a ride with Rimutaka Shuttles to accommodation, towns and train services. You’ll need to book this in advance.
Suitable for intermediate to advanced riders, this adventure requires a reliable bike, spare tubes, and plenty of food and water. You’ll also need a pick-up from Orongorongo at the end of the Wainuiomata Coast Road. Be sure to pre-book a shuttle from Rimutaka Shuttles.
This south eastern corner of the North Island is rugged and remote and on a good day rewards riders with remarkable views over Cook Straight to the Kaikoura Ranges. Its coastal/rural aspect means riders see seabirds, fur seals, sheep and horses while the steep hills behind contain hardy plant life including wizened karaka trees that have withstood the elements.
It can be extremely windy here - prone to both southerly and north-westerly winds - making riding tough. It’s recommended to attempt this section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail only in fair weather. Due to the dynamic nature of the environment be prepared to get out of your saddle and push or lift your bike at times.
Accommodation is available close to Ocean Beach.
Mix up your visit to the Wairarapa with other activities nearby - here are some ideas including the very popular cycling the vines.