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Motu Trails

Motu Trails well underway

The Motu Trails Cycleway is part of Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail which is a national project to build a network of world class cycle trails, and the Opotiki District is part of it!

The project is a collaboration between Opotiki and Gisborne District Councils and the Department of Conservation (DoC).  Construction of the trail is cotsing around $2 million and these costs will be met by the Ministry and the DoC. This funding represents a massive investment by the government into our local economy that will boost the local tourism industry.  It also recognises something we have known for along time – our scenery, our beaches and our bush - is the best!

Commencing in Matawai the Cycleway has two options; the skilled pedlies can descend down the remote and historic Pakihi track while those looking for a more leisurely ride can cruise down the Motu Road to connect with a new dedicated cycle track through the sand hills, along the  beach and into to town.

This is a new way to cruise the coast. Either option will bring the happy cyclists face to face with our superb natural scenery - hill country farms, bush clad hills, mist shrouded valleys and of course rivers and beaches with plenty of opportunities to stop a while, swim and soak in the scenery.

And don’t go thinking this is all for the tourists. Part of the deal will be a trail along the top of the stop bank and  bridge over the Otara River connecting Memorial Park with Te Ngaio Beach (Snells Beach).  This really is a dream come true for many who have wished for a walking bridge from Opotiki to the beach. Even if your biking days are in the past then you’re going love this walk to the beach!

It is going to be a very busy and exciting, and construction of the trail has created jobs within the district.

And, the Motu Trails cycleway means much more for Opotiki than just a bike ride. The real success will come when we take advantage of the opportunity to grow local business around  the activity.

Riders are going to want good accommodation, cafes and restaurants, shuttles, guides, camp cooks, puncture repair kits and of course, our welcoming hospitality.

Use your imagination - mix a little adventure with your friendly outgoing nature and you might have a business opportunity on your door step!

Motu Trails

The Motu Trails Cycleway is part of Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail which is a national project to build a network of world class cycle trails, and the Opotiki District is part of it!