Discover the Motu Cycle Trails: Ride New Zealand’s Wild East

Ride the Rhythm of Aotearoa’s Untamed East Coast

In the untouched reaches of New Zealand’s Eastland region lies a cycling journey like no other. The Motu Trails aren’t just a collection of tracks—they’re a living, breathing story of this wild land. Each turn of the pedals takes you further from the modern world and deeper into nature’s rhythm, where ancient forests whisper, coastlines sparkle, and the spirit of exploration is alive and well.

This is no ordinary bike ride. It’s a voyage—through time, terrain, and the raw beauty of Aotearoa.

The Pakihi Track – Adrenaline in the Forest

If you’re craving an off-road challenge, the Pakihi Track delivers. A legacy trail that once carried packhorses, it’s now an advanced mountain biker’s dream.

What to expect:

• A thrilling 20km descent through the Urutawa Forest
• Suspension bridges, mossy gullies, and river echoes
• Time: 3–6 hours of concentrated riding
• Grade: Advanced – suitable for experienced off-road riders

The Pakihi Track demands focus and respect. It’s steep, remote, and unpredictable. Fallen trees, narrow drop-offs, and rugged beauty remind you that you’re deep in nature’s domain. But for those with the skills, it’s an unforgettable ride—pure, exhilarating freedom on two wheels.

Motu Road Trail – Where History and Landscape Collide

For riders who love a sense of place with their pedalling, the Motu Road Trail offers a beautifully balanced journey. Once a rally route and old coach road, it now meanders through high country farmland, dense forest, and rolling valleys.

Highlights include:

• 67km of mixed gravel and sealed road
• Matawai’s heritage village, Motu Falls, and panoramic ridgelines
• Time: 1–2 days depending on pace
• Grade: Intermediate – ideal for e-bikes or seasoned cycle tourers

The route gives you a chance to take in the changing scenery at your own pace. There’s a rawness to the landscape—open skies, weathered trails, and the feeling of travelling back in time. Every bend in the road has a story.

The Dunes Trail – Coastal Calm and Family-Friendly Vibes

Craving serenity by the sea? The Dunes Trail is the easiest and most accessible of the three. Following the Pacific coastline from Ōpōtiki, this 9km ride is a gentle meander along golden sand dunes.

Why you'll love it:

• Stunning views of Whale Island and the East Cape
• A flat, well-maintained path perfect for families
• Time: 2–3 hours return, depending on stops
• Grade: Easy

Feel the sea breeze on your face, stop for a beach picnic, and watch the waves crash as you cycle peacefully through one of the country’s most scenic coastal corridors.

Tips for Riding the Motu Cycle Trails

These trails are remote and wild—in all the best ways. But a bit of planning goes a long way toward a smooth experience.

Be prepared:

• Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks
• Dress in layers—weather can change fast
• Carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) on remote trails like Pakihi
• Use a GPS or map; phone service is limited
• Check local conditions before setting out

Accommodation, gear rental, and guided options are available in nearby Ōpōtiki and Matawai.

Why Motu Trails Matter

These aren’t just tracks on a map. The Motu Cycle Trails are a rare chance to connect with the whenua—the land—and its stories. They offer something for every kind of traveller: the thrill-seeker, the history buff, the family adventurer, and the soul-searcher.

Whether you’re descending through dense native forest, cruising along a peaceful beach, or pausing to soak in the silence of the hills, this is an experience that stays with you long after the dust settles on your tyres.

Final Thoughts: Your Next Pedal-Powered Journey Starts Here

If you're ready to swap traffic lights for birdsong and noise for nature, the Motu Trails are calling. With raw landscapes, real adventure, and a deep sense of place, it’s time to ride into the heart of Aotearoa..