Western Lake Road section

Walking time

Varies

Length

33.7km

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

@tekorimako

About the ride

The third section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail takes you 36km through the Wairarapa countryside to Ocean Beach, a small settlement perched on the wild South Coast. The trail surface is sealed country road except for 1km section of off-road single track.

From Cross Creek, head south-west on the road 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.

If you want to take a detour to explore the Wairarapa, Featherston is 10km away from Cross Creek. Featherston is a great overnight stopover and an ideal base to sample local wines, and experience the regions country charm.

  • Bike hire and shuttle services are available.
  • By car - Parking is available at the Cross Creek carpark. The drive from Wellington takes just over one hour.
  • By train - Take the Wairarapa Line to Featherston, then cycle 10km along Western Lake Road to join the trail again at Cross Creek. Check the Metlink timetable for information, updates, and their policy on carrying bikes.

How was your ride?

Let us know by completing our survey and go into the monthly prize draw to win cycle books from the Kennett Brothers. Your feedback helps us build a better trail.

Remutaka Cycle Trail Survey