Mountains to Sea

The Ohakune Old Coach Road, Fishers Tracks and Mangapurua Valley parts of the trails are open and each represent great day and overnight rides.   The trail is part of the New Zealand Government's network of 18 cycle trails and the Ohakune Old Coach Road portion was officially opened by the Prime Minister, Rt Hon John Key in July 2010. Check out this trail map below for a quick overview.  Please note that approximately 54 km of track work is yet to be completed however 269km are currently available.  

Ohakune Old Coach Road (Ohakune to Horopito)

The trail connects Ohakune to Horopito along the track that was once used by horse and carriage to connect train travellers between Ohakune and Raurimu before the rail heads joined in 1909. 

This is a 14 km track comprising predominately grade two level, although there are some sections that are grade three and would pose a challenge to novice riders.

A significant feature on the trail is the Hapuawhenua Viaduct, which is a rare, curved lattice viaduct with 13 concrete piers and four steel towers, constructed in 1908.   It holds a Category 1 listing by the Historic Places Trust.

The trail features interpretative signage highlighting key features and history at various points.

Fishers Track (National Park Village to Oio Road)

From National Park Railway Station a gentle 3km climb takes cyclists over the saddle where they then descent 520 m into the Retaruke Valley before ending, at the Oio Road junction.     This follows the old bridal trail between the Upper Retaruke Valley and National Park Village.

The track features spectacular view of the volcanic mountains and travels through native bush.  In total Fishers Track is 21 km. 

Oio Road to Whakahoro

From Retaruke Road the trail follows Oio road to Whakahoro for 27 km - 18km of this is gravel. This is a scenic ride along a relatively quite back country road (only 25 vehicles per day) following the Retaruke Valley with bridges over several steep side tributaries.

Mangapurua Valley/Raetihi Loop

Enter this spectacular area via Ruatiti and loop to the Bridge to Nowhere via the Mangapurua Track.  This trail features a jet boat leg down the Whanganui River  to Pipiriki.

The initial up-hill and remote nature of this track is most suited to more adventurous, competent riders. 

Riders start the trail ascending for approximately 1 hour to the Mangapurua Trig and from there the ride is downhill thorugh the Valley.  The second day incorporates the Bridge to Nowhere (pictured right) and a jet boat ride to Pipikiri.
 

Information Credit: Central North Island Rail Trail: Feasibility and High Level Business Case prepared for the Ruapehu District Council and Rural Mayoral Taskforce for Economic Development Cycleway Committee.