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MOTU TRAILS

As one of the country’s 22 Great Rides, Motu
Trails offers you fabulous cycling and walking
opportunities. Choose from the family-friendly
Dunes Trail, the historic heartland escape of the
Motu Road Trail, and the classic adventure of the
Pakihi Track.
You can ride all the trails in one big loop, if you wish staying with quality
accommodation providers. Or, you can catch a shuttle up to Matawai, Motu, or beyond,
and enjoy a ride with far more downhill than up. Wherever you go, this is an area rich in
history, and in key places interpretation boards tell the stories of Māori and early settlers.
Be set free!
Dunes Trail THINGS TO SEE & DO IN OUR REGION - MOTU TRAILS
Grade: Easy/Grade 2
Distance: 18 km return
Estimated Riding Time: 2 -3 hours
Access Points: Snell Road, Hukuwai
Reserve, Pukeariki Beach Reserve,
Wairakaia Road or
Tirohanga Beach Road
Recommended Riding Direction:
Memorial Park Reserve to Jackson
Road and return. Dunes Trail Tirohanga Beach
Starting at the Pakowhai ki Otutaopuku - Photo by Jim Robinson
Bridge (See photo below) at Memorial Park Reserve, the trail meanders along a
spectacular stretch of coast to a shelter at the 9 km point, then Jackson Road and the start
of the Motu Road Trail. Hugging the sand dunes, the trail provides excellent vantage
points from which to enjoy unspoilt views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged hinterland of
the East Cape.
This is an easy (grade 2) trail that caters for cyclists of all abilities and fitness levels,
providing an ideal family day out. The trail has an easy gradient that is enjoyed by
walkers, runners and cyclists. The return journey of 20km can be comfortably ridden in
half a day from either end – with plenty of time to stop for a swim and a picnic along the
way. Right on the edge of the trail is a great holiday base Tirohanga Beach Motor Camp
See advert page 61.
Oasis Accommodation: 30 King St. Ph 07-315 5165. Welcome to our charming,
Kauri Villa. Secure bike locks & wash facilities. See advert page 36.

Pakowhai ki Otutaopuku Bridge - Photo by Brian Young
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