Bike

Te Ara o Mahurangi is a one-way, intermediate mountain bike trail that winds through 2km of native bush at the eastern end of Te Āpiti. Designed for riders seeking a more technical experience, the trail delivers a fast-flowing downhill ride through the forest.

Rated Grade 3 (Intermediate), the track includes some steeper downhill sections and is not suitable for beginner riders. The trail can become slippery after heavy rain, so riders are advised to take extra care and check conditions before setting out.

To access the trail, riders can either cycle 1.6km up Hall Block Road before beginning their descent or arrange a vehicle drop-off near the trail entrance at the top of the road.

Getting there

From Gorge Road, Ballance, turn onto Hall Block Road. Follow the road for approximately 1.8km to the start of the mountain bike track. Limited roadside parking is available near the trail entrance.

The trail finishes at the start of Hall Block Road, just off Gorge Road, where additional roadside parking is available.

Type: One-way, unsealed
Distance: 2km
Grade: 3 – Intermediate

The Wind Farm Ride is a rewarding challenge for confident riders, combining a steady climb with spectacular views across Te Āpiti Manawatū, Ashhurst, Woodville and Palmerston North. You can get up close to the towering turbines that generate enough renewable electricity to power around 120,000 households each year.

Getting there

Beginning near Ballance, the route climbs Hall Block Road before reaching the wind farm high on the ranges. The ride continues along North Range Road before descending via the Pahiatua Track to Aokautere and Palmerston North.

This is a one-way ride ending in Palmerston North, so you’ll need transport to drop you off at the starting point.

Before you go

Weather conditions on the ranges can change quickly and may be extreme at times. Check the forecast before setting out, carry adequate food and water, and pack extra layers. Strong winds can make this ride challenging, so plan accordingly.

Please stay on formed roads and tracks, leave gates as you find them, and help protect this special environment by taking all rubbish with you.

Type: One-way, sealed and unsealed sections
Distance: 41 km one-way
Grade: 3 – Intermediate

Experience Te Āpiti from a new perspective along the Te Ahu a Turanga Shared User Path. Suitable for both walkers and cyclists, this 10.5km route follows Te Ahu a Turanga – Manawatū Tararua Highway.

Along the route, you'll enjoy views of the Ruahine and Tararua Ranges, the Manawatū River, and nearby townships including Ashhurst and Woodville. You'll also catch glimpses of Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge and pass beneath the towering turbines of Te Āpiti Wind Farm.

One of the highlights of the journey is the lookout on Parahaki Bridge, suspended 30 metres above the Manawatū River. Located at the western end of the pathway, it offers sweeping views across Parahaki Island, the river corridor and the wider gorge environment. The lookout features mahi toi (artwork) and interpretive signage that share local stories and cultural insights.

While this sealed pathway follows the highway corridor, it deviates from the road at several points and passes beneath it in places. Rest areas and lookouts along the route provide opportunities to pause, take in the views and enjoy the journey.

A moderate level of fitness is required as there are some long, steep climbs.

Before you go

Weather conditions on the ranges can change quickly and may be extreme at times. Check the forecast before setting out, carry adequate food and water, and pack extra layers. Strong winds can make this ride challenging, so plan accordingly.

Type: One-way, sealed
Distance: 10.5 km one-way
Grade: 3 - Intermediate