Hawke’s Bay – New Zealand wine, Art Deco … and cycling capital? In a region often celebrated for its culinary delights and architecture, the Hawke’s Bay Trails are rising in popularity as one of Ngā Haerenga’s 23 Great Rides of New Zealand.
The Hawke’s Bay Trails are managed by Hawke’s Bay Regional Council and feature 177 kilometres of flat, easy-riding cycling paths that wind through diverse views in Napier and Hastings, connecting over 50 local attractions. The trails are designed to lead both locals and visitors to cultural, historical and scenic highlights, allowing everyone to experience Hawke’s Bay at its best.
Following Cyclone Gabrielle, 170 kilometres (96 percent) of the trails have been successfully restored, while the remaining sections are closed pending repairs. We’ve picked some popular rides that are open and ready for you to enjoy in Te Matau-a-Māui this summer.
1. Landscapes Ride
Distance: 15 kilometres
Trail Surface: Limesand with short on-road sections
Traffic: Light to moderate
If you’re looking to cruise on flat trails with beautiful landscapes, coastal views, and local heritage, you can’t go past the Landscapes Ride. We recommend checking out the ‘Cape Coast’ section of the Landscapes Ride, which stretches along the Pacific Ocean from Clive to Clifton, offering views of Te Kauwae-a-Māui (Cape Kidnappers).
One of the key features of the Landscapes Ride is its accessibility for all types of cyclists. The trail offers a range of distances, allowing everyone – from families with young children to experienced cyclists – to enjoy the ride at their own pace.
You can start from Clive, where there is plenty of parking, toilets, coffee and supplies. Follow the trail beside Waitangi Regional Park and cruise the Pacific coast on well-marked trails. Head through Hawke’s Bay’s coastal towns and keep your eyes peeled for a series of sculptures that portray the region’s rich culture.
There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy food and wine at some of the regions best wineries and cafés and kid-friendly activities.
2. Wineries Ride
Distance: 30 kilometres or 60 kilometres
Trail Surface: Limesand and short on-road sections
Traffic: Light
Are wineries more your style? The trails have you covered! The Wineries Ride is perfect for friends, couples or anyone looking to combine outdoor activity with wine tasting and tasty food. You’ll be treated to some of Hawke’s Bay’s best views, and with some of the best cellar doors – ranging from boutique wineries to larger estates – dotted along the trail, it’s a fantastic day out.
There are both guided and self-guided options available for this ride, along with convenient bike hire. The trail forms a loop, allowing you to choose the starting point that suits you best – just pick your spot and get going.
For those seeking variety, the Wineries Ride offers distance options that cater to a variety of fitness levels. If you’re keen to go the distance, choose the longer leg from Clive, stretching 60 kilometres via Oak Avenue, or opt for the shorter 30-kilometre stint from Roy’s Hill Reserve. You can also pick your preferred cellar doors and tailor the route to your selection.
3. Water Ride
Distance: 35 kilometres
Trail Surface: Concrete and limesand sections
Traffic: Light to heavy
A staple in the summer itinerary must be the Water Ride. A good choice for all ages, this 35-kilometre, well-maintained trail provides the perfect blend of seaside scenery and activities. As you navigate the trails, you’ll be treated to views of the Pacific Ocean, Ahuriri Estuary and Tūtaekurī River.
This trail is looped, so if you’re not up for a full day of cycling, you can break it into smaller sections. A great option is the popular trail from Ahuriri to Bay View.
The path is concrete, approximately seven kilometres long, and is accessible for a variety of recreational activities, including hand bikes, wheelchairs, recumbent bikes and trikes.
For a longer ride, a good place to start is at Napier’s Marine Parade, where you can find bike rental shops and cafés to start your adventure. Follow the coastal paths toward Bay View through the Ahuriri wetland. Keep an eye out for native wildlife while you cycle the coast – Hawke’s Bay is home to a diverse array of birds and aquatic species, so you might just spot some special locals.
You’ll also find plenty of cafés, restaurants and picnic spots on your way, so it’s easy to stop and recharge. Want to take a dip? Cool off at the popular Ahuriri or Westshore beaches.
The Landscapes Ride, The Wineries Ride and The Water Ride are just three Hawke’s Bay Trails highlights, but there’s plenty more to explore! Plan your Hawke’s Bay Trails summer adventure and book a tour at hbtrails.nz
