Discover the Remutaka area’s rich rail history and natural beauty on an easy, all-inclusive, 6 hour mountain biking day trip. The flagship of the Remutaka Cycle Trail, this trail is suitable for riders of all levels. Cycle through native forest, over bridges and through tunnels while enjoying views of the natural landscape and the old railway system. Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch at the Summit and embark on a fun (but easily controllable) descent to Cross Creek in the Wairarapa, home to some of New Zealand’s most scenic farmland.
You will be provided with everything you will need for your adventure - transport to and from Wellington Station, bikes with trunk bags for your personal effects, and all food - so all you need to do is wear appropriate clothing and be ready to ride!
Please note this day trip is for a Regular Mountain Bike, if you would like to ride an eBike instead, please book the other day trip: 'Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Explorer Cycle Tour'.
Capable & comfortable Mountain Bike
We'll pick you up at either 9.15am from Wellington Port (cruise ship guests only) or 9.30am from Wellington Station (main entrance) and shuttle you to the start of the trail at at Kaitoke.
Start point for your 28km ride at Kaitoke, on the trail, you’ll start by cycling through the native bird-filled Pakuratahi Forest. Follow an old railway line over bridges and through tunnels, while pausing, if you like, to check out information stations detailing the enormous task of constructing the “Fell” railway system - a first for New Zealand at the time, and one of only a few around the world. Once you reach the summit, you will stop for a picnic lunch on a large grassy plateau next to the remnants of a historic station. After lunch, enjoy an exhilarating (but easily controllable!) descent to Cross Creek in the Wairarapa, with views of some of New Zealand’s stunning farming heartland. Follow the path along the countryside to Featherston and we'll see you at the Royal Hotel.
We'll pick you up at the Royal Hotel in Featherston, before we shuttle you back over the Remutaka ranges, down the Hutt Valley and back to Wellington Station (arriving approx. 3.30-3.45pm) or Wellington Port (cruise ship guests only, arriving approx. 3.45-4.00pm). Please note: if you are on a cruise ship, we pick you up direct from the Port at 9.15am. We cannot wait for late arrivals - make sure you are there on time otherwise the shuttle will leave without you! We arrive back at Port between 3.45pm - 4pm. Please check that your sailing times allow for these timings, we will not be held responsible if you miss your boat!
You will make your own way to the meeting points
• Cancellations: Trips are subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund at your discretion. • What to Wear: Please wear appropriate clothing for outdoor activity. During the warmer months, this means shorts and a t-shirt for riding, and a light jacket in reserve. During the colder months you may prefer long pants or tights (nothing baggy that may catch on the bike!), with a t-shirt, fleece and light jacket in reserve. Closed shoes - running shoes are perfect - must be worn at all times. • Departure Time: either 9.15am Wellington Port (cruise ship guests only) or 9.30am Wellington Station (main entrance) • Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions • Not wheelchair accessible Please note: if you are on a cruise ship, we pick you up direct from the Port at 9.15am. We cannot wait for late arrivals - make sure you are there on time otherwise the shuttle will leave without you! We arrive back at Port between 3.45pm - 4pm. Please check that your sailing times allow for these timings, we will not be held responsible if you miss your boat!