Sun in your face, wind in your hair, and 100% pedal-powered.

There’s nothing like exploring country roads, coastal dunes and lush rainforest by bike. Here are some of the best cycling experiences for first-time visitors in Tairāwhiti to enjoy.

Gisborne Rail Bikes

Even without much biking experience, you can enjoy a great day out on wheels with a tandem rail bike adventure. The Gisborne Railbike experience offers three stunning railbike routes ranging from one-hour to half-day excursions. Choose from a 1-hour Waipoa Bridge ride or two half-day options including the scenic Beach Loop or Blacks Beach excursion. No balancing or steering required you’ll take in incredible views and vistas as you railbike along retired rail lines through an enchanting network of tunnels, bridges, and historic landmarks.

Motu Trails

One of the Great Rides of Ngā Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail, the legendary Motu Trails reveals the vibrant pulse of Tairāwhiti and beyond. Off the beaten path and into the great big beautiful wilderness, the Motu Trails are a must-do for first-time visitors to Tairāwhiti. And with plenty of options for accommodation along the way, you can pick your favourite trail to stay and play, making the most of all the outdoor experiences to discover in every direction when you’re here on Tairāwhiti time. From half day to multi-day adventures, you can enjoy the Motu Trails all year-round with bike hire and shuttles available in the region.

Oneroa cycle and walkway

Bike along the Oneroa cycleway to take in Gisborne’s best sights, riverside and beachside scenes. This popular cycleway and shared walking path takes you in and around the heart of Gisborne exploring historical landmarks, local hotspots and along the newly developed Tupapa Heritage Trail. The Oneroa Cycleway is mostly flat, with a wide concrete path and offers several access points from the city to enjoy a relaxing, easy ride. Currently 2km long from Waikanae Beach to Midway Surf Club, a 1 km extension is underway to Awapuni Stadium.

Gisborne to Wainui Beach

For an easy, breezy ride from the city to the beach, hop on your bikes to explore the Gisborne to Wainui Beach cycleway. A smooth, relatively flat path, this 6km ride winds through city streets to quiet neighbourhoods as well as local parks and schools. Also popular for local commuters, this is a great way to get from the city to beach and back while discovering the charming coastal community of Wainui Beach.