Explore New Zealand’s Remutaka Rail Trail: An Easy Mountain Bike Journey Through History and Landscape
Ride through native forests, historic rail tunnels, and scenic farmland on New Zealand’s Remutaka Rail Trail. This easy mountain bike tour blends engineering history with natural beauty for a memorable six-hour adventure.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear layered clothing
Weather in the Remutaka ranges can shift; bring a light jacket and change layers as needed to stay comfortable.
Use closed-toe shoes
Running or cycling shoes provide the best pedal grip and protect your feet during the ride.
Stay hydrated
Carry a water bottle and refill at stops; the ride covers 28 km with moderate effort under the sun.
Check your bike fit
Provide your height at booking to ensure the mountain bike fits well for a safer, more comfortable ride.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stop briefly at Cross Creek’s historic railway remnants for a quiet moment
- •Explore Featherston’s local cafés and small galleries after the ride
Wildlife
- •Tūī bird, often heard singing in the forest canopy
- •New Zealand fantail, darting among the trees
Conservation Note
The trail runs through native forest areas where ongoing conservation efforts protect endemic flora and fauna from invasive species.
The Fell railway system was a pioneering lift-and-brake design built in the late 19th century to navigate steep rail gradients of the Remutaka Ranges.
Photographer's Notes
- • Summit plateau picnic area
- • Bridge crossings over native streams
- • Tunnel entrances with filtered light
What to Bring
Mountain bike helmetEssential
Protects your head during off-road cycling sections of the trail.
Water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated throughout the six-hour ride.
Light windbreaker or jacketEssential
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Running shoes or mountain biking shoes provide grip and foot protection during cycling.
Common Questions
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the trail is designed for riders of all levels with mostly gentle terrain and easy-to-control descents.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Trips can be canceled due to unfavorable weather, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.
Are eBikes available for this trail?
This tour uses regular mountain bikes; eBikes are offered on a separate Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Explorer Cycle Tour.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a picnic lunch and water are provided during the stop at the Summit plateau.
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour starts at Kaitoke after shuttle pickup from Wellington and ends at Featherston, followed by transport back to Wellington.
Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets and all necessary safety gear come with the bike rental included in the tour package.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Wellington, Wellington
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required; riders should be comfortable with 28 km cycling on mixed terrain
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