Plan your ride on the Remutaka Cycle Trail

Location: Petone to Ōrongorongo.

Total distance: 122 kilometres.

Recommended time: Two to three days, or longer if you want to soak in the surroundings.

Getting there and back

The Remutaka Cycle Trail can be ridden in either direction, with the official starting point at Petone Wharf, just 15 minutes from central Wellington. Most riders choose to travel clockwise, starting at from Petone Wharf on the Hutt River Trail section and ending at Ōrongorongo on the Wild Coast. You can also complete the loop back to Petone via the Wainuiomata Connector Ride.

Metlink train services connect Hutt Valley, Wairarapa, and Wellington. Plan your journey with Metlink and check their bike policies, as not all services will allow bikes.

Know before you go

• Supplies: Restock in Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt or Featherston. Maymorn dairy is located directly on the trail. There are no shops on the trail beyond Maymorn.
• Cell reception: Mobile coverage is generally strong in towns but can drop out completely for sections of the Rail Trail and Wild Coast.
• Weather: The trail traverses a range of environments, from sheltered bush to exposed coast. Conditions can change quickly. Always check the MetService forecast before you go.
• Closures and updates: Check for alerts, closures or washouts. For regular updates, follow the Remutaka Cycle Trail Facebook page.
• E-bikes are allowed. They must be under 300 watts. There are no charging stations on the trail.
• Shared trail etiquette: The trail is multi-use and multi-directional. Walkers, runners, horses and cyclists all use parts of the trail. Keep left, ride at a safe speed, and give a friendly bell or call when passing. Respect all user types and follow trail etiquette.

What to pack

• Water — there are a few refill spots on the Hutt River Trail. Maymorn dairy is the last water stop on the trail.
• Torch or headlight — for the tunnels.
• First aid kit and bike repair tools.
• Sunscreen and weatherproof layers — be ready for wind, rain, and strong sun.
• Towel and swimwear — for a refreshing river or ocean dip. There are plenty of places to stop along the way.

Tours, bike hire, and shuttles

Wildfinder and Green Jersey are your go-to providers for support along the trail. They offer full-service tour packages including bike hire, shuttles, bag transfers, and accommodation for single and multi-day rides.

Even if you're doing it solo, it’s worth reaching out to check options for tricky logistics or remote pickups.

Trail etiquette

• Respect all trail users. Give way to walkers, use a bell or greeting to announce yourself, and always ride at a safe speed. For emergencies, dial 111.
• Know your ability and make wise decisions. At points, you may need to dismount and walk your bike.
• The environment is changeable. If you find a slip or hazard that doesn’t appear to be a natural part of the trail, let us know through the hazard reporting form.

Location: Petone to Maymorn.

Distance: approximately 35 kilometres.

Mountain Bike Grade: Easy Grade 2.

This section is a flat, easy trail along Te Awa Kairangi (Hutt River). It is mostly wide, sealed paths, with occasional gravel sections — making it suitable for all ages and abilities, including families.

Getting there and back

• By trail: Ride from central Wellington (14km) or Wellington International Airport (20km) to Petone to start the trail.
• By train: Board the Hutt Valley Line from Wellington Railway Station to Petone Station, or any station up to Silverstream (for example Ava or Melling stations). Plan your journey with Metlink.
• By car: A quick 15-minute drive from central Wellington or 30 minutes from Wellington International Airport. Parking is available at Petone or other points along the trail, like Avalon Park or Awakairangi Park.
• Return: You can get back to Petone by bike, catch the train from any station along the trail, or book a shuttle service.

Highlights

• Taita Rock and Whakamoonie swimming holes are perfect spots for a refreshing swim on a warm day.
• Dowse Art Museum is a short detour from the trail in Lower Hutt. The museum focuses on craft and applied arts, with one of the largest collections of this type in New Zealand. There's also an artisan drinking fountain and e-bike charging hub here. 
• Brewtown is less than 2km off the trail in Upper Hutt. It’s a great place to stop for food or craft beer, or entertainment.

Know before you go

• Amenities: Toilets are available along the Petone foreshore, Fraser Park, Moonshine Park, and the Birchville picnic area.
• Supplies: Basic supplies can be purchased from Maymorn dairy which is located directly on the trail. Artesian drinking water is available from drinking fountains at the Jackson Street and Buick Street intersection in Petone, and Dowse Square in Lower Hutt. There are also drinking fountains in Harcourt Park and at the Birchville picnic area.
• Horse riding: Permitted on formed service roads. Keep off the grassed river berm, stop banks, and pedestrian trails.
• Cell reception: Full coverage on this section.
• Weather: Get the latest forecast from MetService before setting off. 
• Closures and updates: Check for alerts, closures or washouts. For regular updates, follow the Remutaka Cycle Trail Facebook page.
• E-bikes are allowed. They must be under 300 watts. Direct charging points are not available on the trail.
• Etiquette: The trail is multi-use and multi-directional. Respect all user types and follow trail etiquette.

Accommodation

• Silverstream Retreat is just off the trail in Stokes Valley.
• Wallaceville House in Upper Hutt.
• The Top 10 Holiday Park in Petone, Lower Hutt.
• Alternatively, stay at one of many hotels or Airbnbs in the Hutt Valley.

Tours, bike hire, and shuttles

Wildfinder and Green Jersey offer full-service tour packages including bike hire, shuttles, bag transfers, and accommodation for single and multi-day rides. They’re also happy to give free advice to DIY adventurers.

What to pack

• Water — there are a few refill spots on the Hutt River Trail. Maymorn dairy is the last water stop on the trail.
• Torch or headlight — for the tunnels.
• First aid kit and bike repair tools.
• Sunscreen and weatherproof layers — be ready for wind, rain, and strong sun.
• Towel and swimwear — for a refreshing river or ocean dip. There are plenty of places to stop along the way.

Location: Maymorn to Cross Creek.

Distance: Approximately 25 kilometres.

Mountain Bike Grade: Easy to Intermediate Grade 2-3.

Step back in time as you ride through the remnants of the historic railway that once hauled trains over the Remutaka Ranges. The trail starts easy and becomes more technical after the Summit Tunnel. The descent toward Cross Creek includes narrow paths with exposed drop-offs, making the terrain more challenging.

Tip: Less confident riders may need to walk their bikes for the final 2km stretch of this section, before reaching Cross Creek.

Caution: Siberia Gully is prone to high winds (strong enough to push a train off its tracks). If its windy or you're unsure, dismount and walk your bike across the bridge.

Getting there and back

• By trail: Continue from the Hutt River Trail section which officially ends at Maymorn Station.
• By train: Catch the Wairarapa Line to Maymorn Station from Wellington or Featherston. Plan your journey with Metlink.
• By car: Parking is available at Maymorn Train Station along State Highway 2. You can also park and hire bikes from Wildfinder in Kaitoke.
• Return: After finishing this section at Cross Creek, either return to Petone by train from Featherston or book a shuttle service.

Highlights

• Historic remains of the impresive railway that serviced the Fell Engines from 1863 to 1955.
• Summit Tunnel — a 500-metre-long tunnel that is a unique part of the old railway history.
• Siberia Gully Swing Bridge — the site of New Zealand’s first rail disaster, adding a historical aspect to the ride.

Know before you go

• Amenities: Toilets are available at Tunnel Gully, Ladle Bend, Summit, and Cross Creek.
• Supplies: Bring enough water for this section. There are no refill points between Te Marua dairy and Featherston.
• Bike type: A hybrid bike is fine for the climb to the Summit, but a mountain bike is recommended for the descent into Wairarapa. E-bikes are allowed, but must be under 300 watts. Direct charging points are not available on the trail.
• Cell reception: Patchy — plan accordingly for emergencies.
• Weather: Get the latest forecast from MetService before setting off.
• Closures and updates: Check for alerts, closures or washouts. For regular updates, follow the Remutaka Cycle Trail Facebook page.
• Etiquette: The trail is multi-use and multi-directional, respect all user types and follow trail etiquette.

Accommodation

• Free camping spots are available at Ladle Bend or the Summit with basic facilities.
• Featherston Motels and Camping
• Royal Hotel Featherston
• Alternatively, stay at one of many hotels or Airbnbs in the Hutt Valley or Wairarapa region.

Tours, bike hire, and shuttles

Wildfinder and Green Jersey offer full-service tour packages including bike hire, shuttles, bag transfers, and accommodation for single and multi-day rides. They’re also happy to give free advice to DIY adventurers.

What to pack

• Water — there are a few refill spots on the Hutt River Trail. Maymorn dairy is the last water stop on the trail.
• Torch or headlight — for the tunnels.
• First aid kit and bike repair tools.
• Sunscreen and weatherproof layers — be ready for wind, rain, and strong sun.

Location: Cross Creek to Featherston or Ocean Beach.

Distance: Approximately 42 kilometres.

Mountain Bike Grade: Intermediate Grade 3.

This section is mostly on road, but the journey through farmland and lakeside views are worth it. From Cross Creek you can take an optional 10km out-and-back detour to Featherston to stock up on supplies, or extend your stay in to the Wairarapa region. If you're not heading to Featherston, it's approximately 32 kms from Cross Creek to Ocean Beach where you start the Wild Coast.

Caution: The trail surface is a mix of sealed country roads and off-road single tracks. A large portion is on-road and narrow in places. The traffic is not heavy, but large vehicles including cattle trucks share the roads. Be careful, wear bright clothing, stay to the left, and ride in single file.

Getting there and back

• By trail: Continue from the Rail Trail, reaching Western Lake Road at Cross Creek.
• By car: Parking is available at Cross Creek or Ocean Beach for the Wild Coast section.
• Return: If ending at Ocean Beach, arrange transport back to Wellington before you go.

Highlights

• Fell Locomotive Museum Featherston is home to the last Fell locomotive in the world. Museum bookings are essential.
• Wairarapa Moana Wetlands Park is a must-visit for bird watchers, with stunning natural scenery.
• Sample locally made cheese at C’est Cheese.
• Lake Ōnoke (Lake Ferry).
• Walk around the grounds of the All Saints Church on Western Lake Road.
• Go on a bird-watching tour at Te Rakau Birding.
• Extend your stay to explore shopping, artisan food, and wine country in the Wairarapa region.

Know before you go

• Amenities: Toilets are available at Cross Creek car park, Fox Street in Featherston, and Wairarapa Lake Shore Scenic Reserve.
• Supplies: Stock up in Featherston. There are no shops or drinking water directly on the trail for the rest of the ride.
• Cell reception: Mostly available but can be patchy.
• Weather: Get the latest forecast from MetService before setting off.
• Closures and updates: Check for alerts, closures or washouts. For regular updates, follow the Remutaka Cycle Trail Facebook page.
• E-bikes are allowed. They must be under 300 watts. Direct charging points are not available on the trail.
• Etiquette: The trail is multi-use and multi-directional. Respect all user types and follow trail etiquette.

Accommodation

• Stay on the trail at Te Rakau Cabins and Bunkhouse on Western Lake Road for a peaceful coastal experience.
• Featherston Motels and Camping
• The Royal Hotel Featherston
• Spend time off the trail and stay at a hotel or Airbnb in the Wairarapa region.

Tours, bike hire, and shuttles

Wildfinder and Green Jersey offer full-service tour packages including bike hire, shuttles, bag transfers, and accommodation for single and multi-day rides. They’re also happy to give free advice to DIY adventurers.

What to pack

• Water — there are a few refill spots on the Hutt River Trail. Maymorn dairy is the last water stop on the trail.
• Torch or headlight — for the tunnels.
• First aid kit and bike repair tools.
• Sunscreen and weatherproof layers — be ready for wind, rain, and strong sun.

Location: Ocean Beach to Ōrongorongo.

Distance: Approximately 18 kilometres.

Mountain Bike Grade: Intermediate to Advanced Grade 3-4.

This coastal ride is the most challenging, yet most scenic section of the entire Remutaka Cycle Trail. There are a number of areas where you may need to walk your bike, which require a high level of fitness.

Caution:

• Due to the remote nature of the area, caution is required.
• There is an active slip 1.5 km from Ocean Beach. It is best to cross this at mid to low tide and walk your bike around the bottom of the slip.
• There are a few stream crossings on this section that are particularly hazardous after heavy rain. Please check the forecast and take care when crossing. If rivers look to be in flood or the flow is heavy, turn back and do not cross.
• Sand drifts are often present on this section. You may need to walk your bike. E-bikes may struggle in the sand, and the push assist function will come in handy here.
• The Kotumu Fan is constantly changing. Although this is regularly graded, sometimes it is not rideable and you may need to walk your bike over this section. Take care when walking over rocks.

Getting there and back

• By trail: Start this remote coastal section at Ocean Beach, continuing from the Western Lake Road section. The Remutaka Cycle Trail officially ends at Ōrongorongo. To complete the loop you can take the 28km Wainuiomata Connector Ride back to the starting point in Petone.
• By car: Park at Ocean Beach and arrange transport back from Ōrongorongo before you go. Wildfinder and Green Jersey can help with transfers.
• Return: Turn around and go back the way you came, or complete the loop by taking the 28km Wainuiomata Connector Ride back to the starting point in Petone.

Highlights

• Turakirae Head — home to the largest fur seal colony in Wellington.
• Earthquake-raised beaches — see unique geological formations created by ancient earthquakes.
• Dolphins are frequently spotted on the South Coast, so don't forget to look out towards the ocean.

Know before you go

• Remote area: The South Coast is remote with no vehicle access. Be well prepared and tell others about your plans.
• Amenities: Toilets are available at Corner Creek Campsite, Mukamukaiti picnic area, and the Ōrongorongo River car park.
• Supplies: Stock up in Featherston. There are no shops or drinking water directly on the trail for the rest of the ride. Untreated water is available at Corner Creek Campsite and Mukamukaiti picnic area, but it’s recommended to bring enough water with you.
• There are squeeze gates at Ōrongorongo Station and Windy Point. You may need to unload your bike panniers to get through. These are in place to keep 4-wheel drive vehicles out and protect the trail for all users.
• Cell reception: Limited throughout the section.
• Weather: Coastal weather can be extreme. Avoid the trail during or after heavy rain due to stream crossings. Get the latest forecast from MetService before setting off.
• Closures and updates: Check for alerts, closures or washouts. For regular updates, follow the Remutaka Cycle Trail Facebook page.
• E-bikes are allowed. They must be under 300 watts. Direct charging points are not available on the trail.
• Etiquette: The trail is multi-use and multi-directional. Respect all user types and follow trail etiquette.

Accommodation

• Corner Creek Campsite — a Department of Conservation campsite with basic facilities.
• Ride on to Baring Head Lighthouse — just a few kilometres from the end of the trail. The newly refurbished Assistant Lightkeeper's Cottage is available for rent.
• Spend time off the trail and stay at a hotel or Airbnb in the Wairarapa region.

Tours, bike hire, and shuttles

Wildfinder and Green Jersey offer full-service tour packages including bike hire, shuttles, bag transfers, and accommodation for single and multi-day rides. They’re also happy to give free advice to DIY adventurers.

What to pack

• Water — there are a few refill spots on the Hutt River Trail. Maymorn dairy is the last water stop on the trail.
• Torch or headlight — for the tunnels.
• First aid kit and bike repair tools.
• Sunscreen and weatherproof layers — be ready for wind, rain, and strong sun.
• Towel and swimwear — for a refreshing river or ocean dip. There are plenty of places to stop along the way.