Hutt River Trail section
Remutaka Cycle TrailTake a gentle ride along Te Awa Kairangi with swimming and picnic stops on the way.
Walking time
Varies
Length
42.5km
Uses
Walking/Running, Mountain Biking
Type
Shared trail
Walking difficulty
Easy: Walking track
Mountain Bike Grade
Intermediate: Grade 3
Profile
96m highest point
Dogs
Yes
About the ride
The third section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail takes you 42.5km through the Wairarapa countryside between Featherson and Ocean Beach, a small settlement perched on the wild South Coast. The trail surface is a mix of sealed country roads and off-road single tracks.
From Cross Creek, take the out-and-back route (10km each way) north-east into Featherston. The charming town is a great overnight stopover for those riding the Remutaka Cycle Trail and an ideal base to sample local wines, and experience the region’s country charm.
To continue the trail, return south-west on Western Lake road past Cross Creek and along the shores of Lake Wairarapa, passing sheep and cattle farms. There are beautiful picnic spots at All Saints Church and Wairarapa Lake Shore Scenic Reserve.
You’ll pass Lake Ōnoke, part of the Wairarapa Moana Wetlands Park, where indigenous and migratory waterbirds flock. The final stop is on the South Coast at Ocean Beach where you’ll find rows of classic Kiwi baches. This is the start of section four of the cycle trail.
Getting there
- Bike hire and shuttle services are available.
- By car: Parking is available at the Cross Creek car park. The drive from Wellington takes just over one hour.
- By train: Take the Wairarapa Line to Featherston. Check the Metlink timetable for information, updates, and its policy on carrying bikes.
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At start of items
Rail Trail section
Remutaka Cycle TrailTake an invigorating ride tracing an historic railway line through stunning native bush.
Wild Coast Trail section
Remutaka Cycle TrailThe final and most scenic section includes a windswept ride along a remote and rugged coastline.
Cannon Point Walkway
Zigzag through the hills north of Upper Hutt to the historic Birchville Dam.
Greytown to Woodside Trail
The original Greytown to Woodside railway line provides a beautiful and family-friendly walking path.
Holdsworth roadend to Powell Hut/Mount Holdsworth
Spend the night at Powell Hut or continue on to the Mount Holdsworth summit on this one or two-day adventure in the Tararua Range.
Mount Holdsworth Jumbo Circuit
The multi-day circuit around Mount Holdsworth gives you the opportunity to explore the tops of the Tararua Range. Enjoy 360-degree views of the Wairarapa region and Wellington.
Red Rocks Track
Waimapihi Reserve, Brooklyn Turbine and Te Kopahou ReserveAdventure along the ridgelines on the south coast for huge views of the Cook Strait and then down to the coastline to meet the fur seals.
Fenceline
Waimapihi Reserve, Brooklyn Turbine and Te Kopahou ReserveFollow the boundary of Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne ecosanctuary and tune into native birdsong.
Electric Avenue
Belmont Regional ParkAn adventurous downhill mountain bike ride with features to hone your skills along the way.