Motu Trails
Credit: Motu Trails Charitable Trust
- Grade: Easy - Advanced
- Duration: 1-3 days
- Total Length: 11-91km
- Location: Bay of Plenty
The Motu Trails offer it all. There are stunning beaches and spectacular native forest. Plus, all the trails are open all year round. You have three trails to choose from, with the option of combining them all. That means the Motu Trails has something for all fitness levels and preferences. The Dunes Trail offers family friendly riding for 11km along the Eastern Bay of Plenty coastline. This is ideal for all cyclists. The Motu Road Trail heads 67km from the end of the Dunes Trail to the settlement of Matawai. You cycle a quiet unsealed road through scenic farmland and forested conservation reserves, with some hills for challenge and fun. The Pakihi Track is the third trail in the Motu trilogy. This is a 100-year-old track that twists through remote forest. The Pakihi is rated grade 4 because in places, the trail is narrow with steep drop-offs to the side.
Opotiki is in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, and is known as the gateway to East Cape. Gisborne is New Zealand's eastern-most city. Whakatane and Gisborne offer the nearest airports to Opotiki while bus services connect Whakatane, Opotiki and Gisborne.
The Motu Trails traverse a remote area of New Zealand. If you're planning a long ride you'll need to go well prepared. Beyond Opotiki and Gisborne, mobile phone coverage is limited. There is no mobile coverage on the Pakihi Track or most of the Motu Road Trail. All roads are open to the public so expect vehicles at any time and take care crossing fords after heavy rain. There are two fords on the Motu Road Trail.
For more information, view the Motu Trails page provided by NZ Cycle Trail.
Bay of Plenty
Find out more about the Bay of Plenty region by following the links below:
- Bay of Plenty Accommodation
- Bay of Plenty Attractions and Activities
- Bay of Plenty Cuisine and Dining
- Bay of Plenty Tours
- Bay of Plenty Transport
- Bay of Plenty Visitor Information
All Bay of Plenty accommodation can be booked online.
