The section of trail along the Puketapu Link, from Redclyffe Transfer Station to Redclyffe Bridge has been temporarily closed.

Please avoid using this section of trail this week, due to health and safety concerns. Thanks for your patience and understanding.

Due to the weather event unfolding in our region, we recommend avoiding getting out on the trails today, for your safety. Once this weather event is over we will be able to fully assess the damage along the coast and at the river mouths. There is surface flooding at various sections all along the coast and road closures, from Napier to Clifton. Stay safe. We will give further updates tomorrow.

•NZTA update: SH51 (coast road Napier to Hastings) is CLOSED between Waitangi Road and Marine Parade. Please detour via SH2 for travels between the Clive area and Napier at this time.

The situation is changing and if you want the latest updates please refer to:
* NZTA - https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/regions/hawkes-bay/traffic-updates or Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/nztahbg

* HB Civil Defence https://www.facebook.com/hbemergency or website https://www.hbemergency.govt.nz/

* MetService - https://www.metservice.com/towns-cities/locations/napier

TEMP CLOSURE for safety improvements at TSB Bridge

We apologise for late notice; we need to temporarily close a section of trail from Black Bridge to TSB Bridge (HAUMOANA) for 22hrs

From: Tuesday midday 30^th April to Wednesday 10am 1^st May.

Please DO NOT USE and avoid. If you need to ride, we recommend a short on-road section from Mill Rd into Haumoana Road to connect back onto the trail. Recommended detour is (Mill Rd/Haumoana Rd), if not comfortable riding 100km hr on-road, please avoid this section of the trails.

Thanks for your respect and understanding.

Trail Updates

1️. Tukituki Resurfacing - River Road to Black Bridge, Temporary Closures
Monday 22nd – Wednesday 24th April, CLOSED
ANZAC weekend, Thursday 25th – Sunday 28th April, OPEN
Monday 29th April to Wednesday 1st May, CLOSED

Fencing work has commenced to ensure cattle are kept off the freshly resurfaced trail.

2. Moore Rd to Black Bridge, Tukituki
Work has been completed along the T/R stop bank (Moore Road to Black Bridge, Haumoana) this section is OPEN.

3. SH51 behind Hohepa, to Clive Bridge - Seawall Rehabilitation Project
Work has been completed ahead of schedule, the trail will now be OPEN in time for the weekend (Sat 20 April)

4. Waimarama Road, end of Te Mata Road to Craggy Range
Temporary closure, Monday 22 April 7am - 5pm. Heavy machinery will be onsite, this section will be CLOSED during this time.

Please note that after resurfacing work, the trail may have uneven areas and soft edges, until fully bedded in; we encourage you to slow down and ride with care once sections have reopened. Take care if you have heavy bikes or skinny tyres.

Your patience is appreciated while we work to resurface and maintain the trails.

Short-term pain for a long-term gain!

The map below indicates the Tukituki Resurfacing closure from River Rd to Black Bridge.

We expect this to be completed in time for the weekend, Saturday 13 April 24. Please avoid this section of the Tukituki River loop as you will be turned back. 

Please be aware that as with any new trail repairs or surfacing, it may be soft on the edges, until fully bedded in. Please slow down and ride with care.    

The section of limesand trail behind Hohepa will be closed, signage will be in place to guide cyclist via the NZTA cycle corridor.
The expected duration of the project is approx. 3 weeks. Your patience is appreciated while this important work is underway.

Temporary CLOSURE - Expressway Underpass, Guppy Rd, Taradale
This section of trails will be closed today, while the team work to remove a tree that has come down.
Please AVOID - there will be heavy machinery onsite, and you will be turned away.
Works are expected to be completed for the weekend.

We will have contractors carrying out safety improvement work to the TSB bridge over Grange Creek in Haumoana today (near Grange Road North)
Please avoid this section, thank you for your patience as we carry out this important work.

Our Waimarama Road section of the Tuki Tuki River Ride opened last week; it was re-surfaced with compacted limesand, however there are still soft spots and loose limesand across areas of this section. 

Newly resurfaced trails need time to ‘bed in’, moisture (gentle rain) and people using the trail assist with this process.

Signage is installed along the section alerting users to use caution/slow down during this phase, so bear with us while the track beds in fully.

Most of our network are Grade 1 & 2 (easiest – easy), however our Tuki Tuki River Ride section is rated as Grade 3 (intermediate).
New Zealand Cycle Trail advise users of Grade 3 trails to expect uneven or loose surfaces, obstacles such as rocks or tree roots, gravel, hills and on road sections with moderate traffic levels.
We encourage you to avoid this section if you are not confident riding on loose surfaces for the next few weeks while the Limesand hardens.

Remember our trails are dynamic and everchanging, please use with caution on all our trails, especially after resurfacing and weather events.

 Learn more about NZCT trail gradings: https://www.nzcycletrail.com/need-to-know/trail-grades/

 For more information read Riding Safely on the New Zealand Cycle Trail: https://www.nzcycletrail.com/need-to-know/riding-safely

Please do not attempt to ride the trail during this timeframe. Contractors will be on site and you will be turned away.

We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience while the team get this section up to scratch.

Please be aware, there is a 200m on-road detour at the Turirau culvert along Springfield Road.

Please keep in mind that this section, while reopened and rideable, is only 80% completed. Finishing works will be carried out in the coming months so please ride with caution.

Ride slowly, keep left, and beware of soft or uneven surface.

See our updated trail map

Te Mata/ Waimarama Road Section
This section of trail is fully cleared - concrete work has been completed, fences removed, and replacement site rails have been installed. The track will be open to the public 21 December 2023. Remaining limesand and retaining walls will be installed in early 2024.

Karamu Stream
Dodge Contractors have been busy finishing work along this section. The fresh limesand is looking spectacular and the section is now open to the public.

Ngaruroro River 
This trail is 80% complete and will be reopened and rideable from 21 December 2023, and will be finished in early 2024.

Waitangi Regional Park
Works were commenced on the southern side bridge underpass in November. Damaged concrete slabs were removed and recycled. Groundwork is completed, with concrete poured under the bridge. This will reopen 21 December 2023.

Please keep in mind that these sections, while reopened and rideable, are only 80% completed. Finishing works will be carried out in the new year so please ride with caution.
Ride slowly, keep left, and beware of soft or uneven surface.

See our up to date Trail Map

Please note that the current works on SH2 Estuary Bridge, affecting the Estuary Bridge under pass on both sides, have been delayed because of the weather. Further extensions of these works have now been confirmed.

Overnight closures will be in place 7pm to 5am until Tuesday 12 December.

Apologies in advance for any disruption the work may cause.

To keep updated, please visit: https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/journey-planner

Please be advised of the upcoming works on SH2 Expressway (Estuary Bridge)

Estuary Bridge under pass on both sides, along our Water Ride will be temporarily closed:

• Monday 27 November - Monday 11 December (excluding Sunday nights)
• 7pm - 5am

Apologies in advance for any disruption the work may cause. To keep updated, please visit: https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/journey-planner

Please avoid these closed sections, we have reports of people accessing these areas. It is a health and safety concern and slows rebuild progress.

Waimarama Road
CLOSED: Works are underway, our friends at Hastings District Council are working with contractors to start the rebuild of this section. We expect these works to go through to December.

Ngaruroro River Corridor – Waitangi Regional Park to Fernhill
CLOSED: Works are in the pipeline with our contractors. We expect this to be reopened in time for the busy summer holidays. 

Waitangi Regional Park - Tutaekuri River Corridor to Johns Rd (above Brookfields Bridge)
CLOSED: We are currently working hard to find a solution with KiwiRail so we can commence the rebuild of this section.

Puketapu Loop
CLOSED: This is a big piece of work, with multiple agencies/engineers working on major washouts, damaged bridges, stop bank repairs. Stay tuned, this is a big job with a lot of behind-the-scenes work being done. We are hoping to have one side of the loop repaired for summer. We encourage you to make the trip up Puketapu Road, into the village to visit our wonderful friends at the Puketapu Pub.

We appreciate your patience as we continue the hard mahi of rebuilding these sections. We are looking forward to reconnecting our communities via our network of trails.
Please be aware that we are unable to give exact dates of reopening's at this stage, the rebuild works rely on weather and lots of moving parts, such as contractors and key stakeholders.

A map of our trails, including the 140kms of open sections can be found here. 

Funding secured to repair the remaining damaged areas of the Hawke’s Bay Great Rides Trail

• An initial $293,000 was approved in March 2023 for repair to open sections of the network - 70 percent of the 200km network.
• Minor works are already completed throughout the section of open trails in the network.
• Future enhancement projects of a Bay View Whirinaki Extension and Karamū stream Extension have had their MBIE funds redirected. The $750,000 allocated to these two projects has been redirected into Gabrielle recovery of $2.2 million.
• The Hawke’s Bay Trails is one of Aotearoa/ New Zealand’s 23 Great Rides which collectively contribute $1 billion per year to regional economies.

The Annual Hawkes Bay Marathon is upon us again. The race is being completed on Saturday 26 August, the event will run from 6:00am to 4:00pm. The race will start at Anderson Park Napier and finish Elephant Hill Estate and Winery Hastings. Road Closures will be in place from 6:00am and will be removed as the race is completed.

We encourage all cyclists and members of public to avoid the sections of trail along the Hawke's Bay Marathon course on Saturday 26 August, 6am-12pm (approx.) Please refer to the map below.

There will be a series of temporary road closures in place to allow for this event to safely take place, for more information please visit:

Temporary road closures on Saturday 26 August due to Hawke's Bay Marathon 2023. | News Centre | Napier City Council

Tukituki River (Tennant Road) trail closure due to works removing fallen Poplar trees.

Please avoid this area during this time, works are expected to be completed by Thursday 17th August 23.  

Big thanks to our community for avoiding the Lagoon Farm trail and using the detour this week. It allowed our contractors to get on with the job and work quickly. The trail is now open again, the limesand path is looking fresh!
Please note, we have closed a section of the Water Ride, this is to allow maintenance on the section near the beacons, on the Landcorp side. Please avoid this area.

Lagoon Farm Trail Closure for Repairs –  Use Prebensen Drive Detour

Lagoon Farm Trail will be closed from Monday 24^th to Wednesday 26^th July 2023, reopen to public Thursday 27^th July.

DO NOT ENTER signs are up at the locked gates, with Prebensen Drive detour maps. The instructions are clear to stay off this section of trail, yet there's always one...!  Staff will be policing any members of public who feel that the rules don’t apply to them.

DO NOT ENTER for safety reasons as heavy machinery and contractors will be onsite.

Public accessing closed sections ultimately delays our reopening, so adhere to the detour and do not attempt to access the closed section during this time.

The month of March hasn’t quite finished however early insights of trail numbers indicate it’s around the same as the previous two years for March. This is thanks to the fine weather, and amazing considering we have 1x counter drowned and not working, 30% of the network closed and 2x counters in these sections. Just goes to show the support for the trails and how we all want to get out to ride or walk – thank you.

Approximately 70% of the Hawke’s Bay Trail network are open, the map is available to download at www.hbtrails.nz We are asking that locals/visitors please respect these closures, we need to be able to work in these areas and/or it’s not safe or appropriate for people to be in the closed sections.

Our first phase is to bring back the trails back to standard in the open sections, these too have suffered trail/signage damage. We have assessed the damage and have applied to a central government fund for Great Rides (MBIE) for these immediate repairs. We are working to get them repaired asap, now dependent on contractor’s availability. We have already updated all 12x map boards around HB, and outside the Napier iSITE, with the ‘Gabrielle’ map and fixed damaged signage on the Landscapes ride.

The next phases in the coming months will be working towards assessing damage/repairs required for the significantly damaged and more complicated sections that are closed.

Hawke’s Bay Trails Status update 1730hrs 27/2/23

'Gabrielle' hit NZ and has devastated our beloved region and many others - our thoughts go out to families, communities and businesses affected.

As with all our communities, we have some amazing teams working super hard around our region to clean up and fix. There are too many to name, from large to small, from our defence force to national agencies, from local government to your neighbourhood volunteers it all helps, we salute and thank you!

While we are still in the repair phase, we have started looking to recover.  The cyclone has caused significant damage to many parts of the cycle trails and will mean some changes to your favourite rides for a while, as our region fixes more significant issues first. Here's what you need to know if wanting to ride Hawke's Bay Trails:
* Please find the most current updated map on www.hbtrails.nz - check back regularly as things can change
* We've had to close temporarily some of the sections, the most damaged sections that are in need of major long-term repairs. DO NOT ride or walk these sections - this is for your safety and our contractors.
* Majority of trails can be ridden or walked - however there will still be minor damage or maybe unexpected 'repair' traffic.
* Even on OPEN sections please use CAUTION, as we may not have been able to fix it just yet - watch out for water scouring, unexpected surfaces, safety signage or detours. Thanks for your patience.
*Check the individual Recommended Rides 'Google maps' to learn more about the current status of hazards on the ride you want to do, before you head out. We will update regularly.
* The Water Ride out past the Airport to Onehunga Rd is an authentic Water Ride - the water tables are very high still, and after rain you will get wet feet, as there will be surface flooding. Avoid for a few days, if it’s been raining.
Thanks for your understanding - we appreciate you supporting our local business's as we recover from Gabrielle

Hawkes Bay Trails Update Tues 21/2/23 1700hrs

With the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle our region has been hit hard, our hearts go out to those affected directly and in need.

Especially devastated are some of our river corridors, those areas where our trails normally go. As we are still in a Civil Defence Emergency, we ask you to please respect the following and not to ride the majority of trails until next week, updates below:  

• WARNING: River silt and dust can be harmful to your health
• Closed: Water Ride – Landcorp Farm (Beacons) from Hawke’s Bay Airport to Onehunga Road
• Closed: Water Ride – Ahuriri (Westshore Wildlife Park) to Airport as still flooded in parts
• Closed: At this stage both Tutaekuri and Ngaruroro river stop bank sections are closed (exception being between PGA and Guppy Rd) while our teams clean up waste, carry out important repairs
• Closed: Karamu Stream is covered in debris/silt and needs to dry out
• Closed: Tukituki Loop has damage with slips/scouring and trees down from Te Mata Rd to Red Bridge
• Wineries Ride: Closed while repairs to scouring take place
• We are expecting a closure on Saturday 25^th to Tues 28^th Feb on Waitangi/Awatoto bridges for urgent repairs. Do not use on these dates and respect all closures.
• You can ride the concrete sections and coast route from Bayview to Marine Parade to Awatoto, (EXCEPT on above dates) to Clive.
• You can ride from Clive to Black Bridge and out to Clifton, and the iWay routes. If it doesn’t look safe, please turn around or safely go around.
• Our council staff/contractors/emergency services are currently undertaking many other important duties for our communities/region, your cooperation and support for them is appreciated.
• Please do not ride or walk on the closed trails and just let our teams get on with the hard mahi.

Next week we will publish a map with the open sections for you to ride/walk. Until then our advice is to avoid, stay to your local neighbourhood and let us try to safely get repairs done, to make it safe, as soon as possible.

We will do our best to phase in openings sections over the coming weeks/months as they are fixed.

Kia kaha, be kind and stay safe.

Hawke’s Bay Trails Update Mon Feb 13^th Cyclone Gabrielle 1030hrs

With the arrival of Cyclone Gabrielle, we are expecting very high winds and substantial rainfall in the coming 48hrs till Wednesday. Then rivers will still be flooded and trails damaged.  

It is not safe to use the trails, do not use please. This is for your safety, due to risk of trees falling, slips and flooding.

We are expecting surface flooding and damage to the trails across the network, especially in river areas of the Tukituki, Tutaekuri, Ngaruroro, Clive, Karamu, and Waitangi Regional Park.

Please avoid all river corridors and coastal trails, stay at home. Please follow HB Civil Defence Emergency Management Group for more updates on the situation and what to do.

Once the Cyclone has passed, we will be out assessing damage and planning for repairs. We will advise once we know more. Stay safe.

Hawke’s Bay Trails Update 30th Jan 2023 0800HRS

Even though the sun is shining we've experienced some flooding to low sections of the trails over the weekend. We are again assessing the trails post-Saturday/Sunday rain. Due to high rainfall in the region and ranges, the rivers were flooding into berm areas again. Below are the sections and their status, once we know more we will let you know.

• The Water Ride - Puketapu Loop, currently checking for damage today.
• The Landscapes Ride - Tukituki loop, expecting some water scouring/minor slips - use caution.
• The Landscapes Ride – Karamu Stream in Havelock North is still flooded – please avoid till water levels subside
• Ngaruroro/Pakowhai trails are still partially underwater at underpass areas and damaged, please use caution and we will update later in week.
• The Water Ride is open but still very wet, hoping it dries out over the next few days with some sunshine and breezes.
• The coastal sections of trails from Bayview to Napier, Clive to Clifton are good to go, with cafes and wineries along the way.
• CLOSED temporarily, the 'loop' trail around Waitangi Star Compass had severe damage to trail, scouring and silt. Please use the concrete trail beside the road.

If out riding and it’s flooded please turn back, do not ride in the flood waters – it’s dangerous and you do more damage to the trails. Thanks for your co-operation and understanding.

Hawke’s Bay Trails Update 30th Jan 2023 1530HRS

 Due to high rainfall in the region and ranges over the weekend, we have had some trails flooded. The Karamu river in Havelock North is still flooded this afternoon and the Ngaruroro river has receded off the trails overnight. Below are the sections and their status

• The Water Ride - Puketapu Loop no flooding - OPEN
• The Landscapes Ride - Tukituki loop, expecting some water scouring/minor slips - use caution - OPEN
• Ngaruroro/near Pakowhai Regional Park is still partially underwater at underpass areas and damaged, please use caution and we will update once repaired – OPEN
• The Water Ride is open but still very wet, hoping it dries out over the next few days with some sunshine and breezes - OPEN
• The coastal sections of trails from Bayview to Napier, Clive to Clifton are good to go, with cafes and wineries along the way - OPEN
• CLOSED – Karamu Stream in Havelock North is still flooded – please avoid it till water levels subside – as they say ‘if it's flooded- forget it’
• CLOSED - Waitangi Star Compass loop had severe damage to the trail. DETOUR is still in place, use the concrete shared trail beside the road.

If out riding and the trail is flooded please avoid or turn back, do not ride in the flood waters – it’s dangerous and you do more damage to the trails. Thanks for your co-operation and understanding.

Hawke’s Bay Trails Update 20th Jan 2023 1400HRS

Its been a busy week, cleaning up post last weeks weather event. Below are updates on sections and their status.

• OPEN Puketapu Loop, all sections have been graded and trails are open and looking gorgeous.
• OPEN The Tukituki loop, the team have fixed the slip/scouring on the hilly Te Mata section. Mel and her fabulous team at Redbridge coffee look forward to serving you coffee and treats. The tree avenues are looking stunning at the moment.  
• OPEN Ngaruroro River - Waitangi Regional Park to Pakowhai Regional Park/Farndon Rd sections of the trails are no longer flooded at low lying areas and will be fixed next week. Please use caution.
• OPEN All coastal sections of trails from Bayview to Napier, Clive to Clifton are good to go, with cafes and wineries open along the way.
• CLOSED The one section temporarily closed, is the 'loop' trail around Waitangi Star Compass, with some significate damage, so please avoid as its not safe. Please use the concrete trail beside the road between the two clip on bridges.

Its a good reminder to remember all trails are dynamic and surfaces can change quickly, so be aware when out riding. Here's to some more glorious sunshine this weekend.

Hawke’s Bay Trails Update 13th Jan 2023 1800HRS

We have assessed nearly all the flooded sections across the network and started the clean up. Below are sections and their status.

• Puketapu Loop, we have contractors going in tomorrow morning to clean up silt, so will be good to ride in the afternoon onwards.
• The Tukituki loop has had some slip/scouring on the hilly Te Mata section, again will be tidied up but is Ok to ride, just use caution. Mel and her fabulous team at Redbridge coffee look forward to serving you coffee and treats. The tree avenues are looking stunning at the moment.  
• Ngaruroro/Pakowhai trails are still partially underwater at underpass areas and damaged, please use caution and we will action next week.
• The Water Ride is open but still very wet, hoping it dry out over the weekend with some sunshine and breezes.
• The coastal sections of trails from Bayview to Napier, Clive to Clifton are good to go, with cafes and wineries along the way.
• The one section temporarily closed, is the 'loop' trail around Waitangi Star Compass, we have some large holes, scouring and silt. Please use the concrete trail beside the road.

Here's to some sunshine this weekend.

Hawke’s Bay Trail Status Update Wed 11th Jan 1400hrs

 With the arrival of Ex Cyclone Hale we have experienced some river berms and surface flooding affecting the trails. These rivers are fed from a large catchment in the ranges and could still rise. Our team has started assessing but until the water subsides, we will not know the full extent of the damage. At this stage we have flooding to low-lying areas of the Tutaekuri, Ngaruroro, Clive, Karamu rivers and the  Waitangi Regional Park loop is flooded.

 Please avoid the below sections - they may be flooded, closed, or have detours while we complete these repairs. 

1. Water Ride, Waitangi to Puketapu - the Tūtaekurī river is flooding to the base of the stop banks – please avoid as underpasses and low lying areas are flooded.
2. Waitangi Regional Park – Ātea a Rangi Star Compass, the loop trail has been flooded, please use detour on the concrete trail parallel to the road. Underpasses have been flooded.
3. Water Ride - the section from Hawke’s Bay Airport to Onehunga Road, Bayview or the Pāmu Landcorp Farm section we expect to be very wet and some surface flooding.
4. Water Ride - around Clive bridge and from Fernhill to Waitangi Regional Park
5. Landscapes Ride Tukituki Loop, we have not checked from Te Mata Road, up and over to Craggy Range, to check slips/scouring. We will check in the coming days.
6. Landscapes Ride Karamū Stream, flooding over the trails between the bridges in Havelock North

Please DO NOT use the trails if there is trail flooding – turn back. Rain is still expected overnight/tomorrow, and river flooding may still occur quickly if falling in upper catchments. Do not ride through flooded areas, you are doing more damage to the trails and putting yourself at risk. Once the rivers recede there will be trail debris, scouring and silt (very slippery) that our teams will need to fix. Please follow and respect all safety signage for closures, detours, and warnings.

Thanks for your patience and understanding. If you wish to report damaged sections, please let us know via www.hbtrails.nz  and the contact us email.

TRAIL STATUS UPDATE

1. Water Ride: Taradale - the stop bank work has been completed and it’s riding sweetly. This coming weekend/week expect a short detour as the team finishes the part, the Guppy Road entrance/new gates. Please respect all detours and signage, and use caution -  it’s for your safety.
2. Due to the wet season and now the summer temperatures the grass/weeds are flourishing. Our team has a schedule of mowing, so bear with us as they get on with the job. Please always use caution around all our mowing tractors, like on the road please make eye contact with drivers and follow all instructions/safety signage.
3. If there are any trees down or overgrowth (tis the season) feel free to report via Hawke’s Bay Trails website, ‘Contact Us’ page or if on the iWay network via the respective NCC or HDC websites and the ‘Fix it’ section.

Hawke’s Bay Trails celebrates 10th anniversary

Hawke’s Bay Trails is celebrating its 10^th anniversary since it opened as one of 23 iconic ‘Great Rides’ in New Zealand. The network of 200 kilometres of mostly off-road scenic trails through the region, passes through vineyards, and beside winding rivers, orchards, mountains and the Pacific coastline.

To mark this significant milestone, today in Taradale, trail partners, council staff <anyone else?> jumped on their bikes to ride the Puketapu Loop, as it was done to open the trails in 2012.

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council Cycle Network Coordinator Vicki Butterworth says the trails have experienced exceptional growth and development over the years. “We know that the Marine Parade trail has seen a 55% increase in trips since 2014.”

The trails are the busiest of all 23 Great Rides in the country, with the majority of the trails being used by locals, followed by visitors to the region, according to research from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. People enjoy cycling the trails and stopping at the range of cafes, country pubs and wineries. 

Before the trails opened, there were no dedicated cycle tour or bike hire operators in Hawke’s Bay. Now, there are 12 bike hire and tour companies employing local people across the region, says Ms Butterworth.

“The trails contribute economically to our region, and they’re also leading the way in sustainable tourism.

Where trails have been developed, we’ve seen wetlands restored, which sequester carbon, and attract wetland and coastal birdlife and enhanced biodiversity.

The trails have sparked collaboration of community groups - and the development of tourist attractions like the magnificent Ātea a Rangi Star Compass in Waitangi Regional Park and the Cape Coast Trail, filled with art sculptures and early heritage stories, all supporting and enriching our communities”, she says.

Hawke’s Bay Trails is a local collaboration led by Hawke’s Bay Regional Council. Working with key stakeholders including Rotary Pathway Trust, Hastings District Council, Napier City Council, Hawke’s Bay Tourism, NZ Transport Agency and many other landowners including Department of Conservation, Hawke’s Bay Airport, Landcorp Pamu Farm and others, to create Hawke’s Bay Trails ‘Water’, ‘Winery’ and ‘Landscape’ rides.

With the wet month of Sept behind us, the sun looks to be out for October and our long weekend - fabulous news! Which also means its drying out, so our teams have been busy fixing the damage, from this extraordinary wet spring.

1. Landscapes Ride - Waimārama/Te Mata off road section was damaged multiple times, its now dry enough that it can be repaired this week. We will be looking at future resilience work on this section, to ensure we limit future damage from weather events. In the mean time be aware this is a beautiful but dynamic section, so always look for surface damage i.e. water scours. Please dismount and walk if not confident and always be prepared to stop on blind corners.

2. Water Ride - Puketapu loop, the water scouring near the pub is fixed and the flood silt debris down steam of the bridge has been removed. The underpass scouring near Waiohiki Marae is next to be fixed.

3. Water Ride - this section certainly delivers on an authentic water ride experience after rain, however it drying out well.

4. Wineries Ride - water scouring near Bridge Pā school has been fixed.

5. Finally check out the new 'Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand' sign at Clive. These have popped up at three key locations telling you more about similar rides around New Zealand.

Any other maintenance issues, please let us know through the contact us section of this website. We appreciate your feedback. 

Enjoy your rides this weekend and if out enjoying the trails remember to complete our trail survey here.

Earlier this year an evaluation of Great Rides was completed by Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trail. It investigated the numbers and delves deeper into the value our cycle trails bring to our communities and country. Thanks to all who completed the trail surveys and stakeholders who provided information.

In a nutshell, it told us:

1. Majority of use of the trails is by locals, followed by visitors to our region
2. Over 2 million trips nationally, Hawke’s Bay Trails were the busiest with over 400,000 trips
3. Trails are highly valued by the community, and help us to be sustainable and we appreciate nature more
4. Visitation to ride trails in regions in past year equated to a $941 million spend nationally
5. We are seeing continuing increases in usage for both walking and cycling
6. Whether riding to work/school, recreationally or on holiday, you value the health benefits (including mental health, physical fitness and social connections).

The full report can be found here:  Evaluation of Nga Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand Jan 22

So it’s no surprise when we get emails like this – thanks Charlie. Well we think you guys rock too – keep up the friendly, social group rides and being our Ride Leader champions.

Hi Vicki, 
Our group E-bike Social Riders Hawkes Bay. On todays ride our accumulated group kms for 2022 exceeded 100,000 kms. (100,202 kms) 
Whilst not all of these kms are a result of riding on the Hawkes Bay Trails the vast majority are.
Correlation of the group kms is not totally accurate simply number of riders x ride distance. This simple formula does not allow for riders that leave the ride early but this is more than compensated by the number of riders that ride considerable distance to our various start points.
To date in 2022 we have hosted 112 group rides and have involved 164 individual riders. The majority of our riders are local but some are returning out-of-town riders.
The takings from this data are:
1. We have ridden over 100,000 kms without any serious incidents which is a testament to the safety of the trails.
2. The majority of our group riders can be classified as elderly 65 to 80. Without the trails they possibly would not be gaining the health benefits from cycling.
3 The diversity of the “hub” of trails maintains interest in group riding and with some “out of the square” thinking from our ride leaders our ride routes avoid the norm.
4 .Our group provides social contact which is important in these times and many friendships have developed as a result of our rides.
5. Each ride includes a coffee stop, which supports the local hospitality industry.
6. Buying a bike is just the first step we provide ongoing support for the local cycling shops.

I don’t envy your position which at time must seem like being between a rock and a hard place. Along with negative feedback from riders that you are trying to support it must be quite difficult to remain positive.
However on behalf of our group I say thank you for the work you do and without the trails we would have no group.
Charlie - E bike Social Riders Hawkes Bay

After the high rainfall the last few weeks (and more rain expected shortly), we have had some significant damage to the trails. When riding or walking the trails, please use caution and be aware of any damaged surfaces. Water scoured or rutted sections of trails mean you might have a fall, if you ride over them. If not confident please dismount and walk for your safety. As soon as it dries out our team will be out there fixing the trails.

Be aware of the following issues:

• Tukituki Loop  - Waimarama Rd section beside Te Mata Peak has suffered water scouring and slips. Please AVOID or use extreme caution, we suggest walking damaged sections. We need this to dry out before we can fix
• Puketapu Loop - there is water scouring damage to the trails near Puketapu Pub
• Water Ride - surface flooding in various locations on both Lagoon Farm and out past the airport on Landcorp/Pamu Farm, near Onehunga Road.
• Wineries Ride - near Bridge Pa, water scouring near where you cross the road

There may be further damage, or if you find trees down please report via our www.hbtrails.nz 'Contact Us' page.

Please take care out there, and we are all hoping for our Hawke's Bay sunshine and the ground to dry out, so we can get in and tidy trails up.

After the weather event in overnight, we have had some substantial rainfall creating some damage and flooding to the trails.

Please be aware of the following:

1. Tukituki Loop, section beside Te Mata Peak has suffered water scouring and slips. Please avoid or use caution, while I do team do their best to fix asap.
2. Awatoto - the underpass in beside the Tutaekuri river (near BioRich/Ravensdown) is flooded. Please avoid the section from Taradale to Waitangi Regional park until the water recedes.
3. Puketapu Loop- below the bridge the trail is flooded (True Right bank). If riding this loop, please stay on Taradale side only, just ride up and back. Once water recedes there will be water scouring/slippery river silt.
4. Water Ride - surface flooding in various locations, use caution

There may be further damage, if you find trees down or water scouring issues please report via our Contact Us page.  

Please take care out there, and hope you get to enjoy the long weekend on the trails. 

Looking forward to a taste of spring this coming weekend on the trails, with mild temperatures and sunshine predicted. Please be aware we have some upgrade work happening around or near the trails:

1. Water Ride: The Napier City Council Pump upgrade near the airport is now complete and this section is now open and resurfaced.
2. Water Ride: Taradale Stopbank, majority of trail is now open with a new improved stopbank to ride on, just expect two short detours either end.
3. Water Ride: Napier City Council is upgrading the sea-water well next to the National Aquarium of New Zealand, off Marine Parade, between now and October. While this takes place, there may be minor disruptions to trail access and the fitness area. If you’re passing the area, please take care and stop on request. It should not affect the trails, however some Traffic management may be in place to assist pedestrians and cyclists when required.
4. Landscapes Ride: Waimarama Rd, off-road section of trail has been partially repaired but use caution. Like all trails they are dynamic and can change after rain events, you should always look for hazards i.e. changes to surface/scouring, exercise caution and be prepared to stop, especially on blind corners.
5. Wineries Ride: Hastings District Council is upgrading a section of trail out near Stock Road, look forward to the new surface, please follow all safety signage.
6. Damage to council property – there has been some wilful damage to gates recently and increased motorbike activity, please report any suspicious behaviour to police and report via ‘Contact Us’ on www.hbtrails.nz

1. Water Ride: Wed/Thursday this week resurfacing taking place in a short section of trail, near airport/pumpstation. While previous detour has been removed, there maybe disruptions(750m)/alternative route, while work is completed. Thanks for your understanding while we undertake repairs and follow all safety signage.
2. Water Ride: Taradale Stopbank, majority of trail is now open, two short detours either end.
3. Landscapes Ride: Waimarama Rd, off-road section of trail has been damaged/slips. It is open but use caution. Like all trails they are dynamic and require you to always look for hazards i.e. changes of surface/scouring, always exercise caution and be prepared to stop. Dismount and walk if you are not confident in your skills. As soon as weather conditions permit it will be repaired, please follow all safety signage.
4. Damage to council property – there has been some wilful damage to gates recently and increased motorbike activity, please report any suspicious behaviour to police and report via ‘Contact Us’ on www.hbtrails.nz

If planning a ride on Hawke’s Bay Trails this weekend, we recommend postponing till the sun is shining again. 

Due to heavy rain there is flooding in our river corridors and at our river mouths, affecting our low-lying sections of Hawke’s Bay Trails and all our underpass areas. There is more rain predicted and flooding occurring still.

We expect damage from this heavy rainfall, with flooding causing slips, washouts, water scouring to trail surfaces, fallen trees, debris and silt build up.

Please avoid using The Water Ride (except concrete sections) – Lagoon Farm (Park Island to Ahuriri), Landcorp Farm (Bayview to Ahuriri), Puketapu Loop, Brookfields bridge, Waitangi Regional Park, Clive, Pakowhai and use caution on the Landscapes Ride Tuki Tuki Loop. 

DO NOT use the trails if there is trail flooding – turn back. Do not ride through these areas, you are doing more damage to the trails and putting yourself at risk. Councils are concerned about the potential risk of wastewater contamination in some areas. Please follow all safety signage for closures or warnings. Once the flood waters have receded and our team have assessed the damage, we will begin the clean-up. We will keep you updated with progress, thanks for your understanding.

To notify any issues https://www.hbtrails.nz/contact-us/ 

TRAIL ALERTS UPDATE 2/03/22: Details on maintenance/detours happening on Hawke's Bay Trails. Please follow all safety signage, detours and use caution. Thanks for your understanding while we undertake this work.

1. Hawkes Bay Airport Detour - due to Napier City Council pump station upgrade, there is a short detour near the airport, please use caution and follow detour. Expect some surface flooding end of this week.

2. Clive River section upgrade - final finishes being made this week, follow all detours.

3. Stop bank renewal Guppy Rd to Redclyffe Bridge. Work and detour to continue till April. Stop bank CLOSED from Redclyffe Bridge to Guppy Road till June 2022 for maintenance. DETOUR will be in place around Taradale, (Murphy Rd, Howard Rd, Gloucester Street) please follow all directions.

To notify any issues https://www.hbtrails.nz/contact-us/ 

A short detour will be in place from early January – June 2022 . Located on the Water Ride, near Hawke's Bay airport, it will be clearly marked and run through an adjoining section owned by Hawke’s Bay Airport. Napier City Council contractors will complete work to install a new pump station and decommission the existing one. Work is to upgrade a critical piece of wastewater infrastructure near Hawke’s Bay Airport. Please follow all detour signage.

Our newsletter brings you the latest news, stories and tips. To receive the newsletter sign up on this page.

Follow this link the December newsletter. 

UPDATE: We've got tree maintenance, that requires a temporary closure of one side of Puketapu Loop on Friday 3^rd Dec and Monday 6th Dec (AM only). For those wanting to get to Puketapu, we recommend using the true right bank (Waiohiki Marae side/Poplar Lane), to go up and back.

Please follow all health & safety signage, directions, detours and use caution. Thanks for your understanding while we undertake this important work. 

NOTE: If you are confident of riding on the road you can use the below Puketapu Rd/Springfield Rds to avoid the closure.

Reminder: Detour is in place near Pettigrew Green Arena/EIT. The Stop bank is CLOSED from Redclyffe Bridge to Guppy Road till January for strengthening work. For your safety a detour is in place around Taradale, (Guppy, Murphy and Howard Roads) please follow all directions. Thanks for your co-operation.

The Hawke's Bay Trails map has been updated, with the Tuki Tuki loop now included. This incorporates the urban iWay networks.  

Thanks to Hawke's Bay Tourism, once they have been printed they will be available from iSITE's, Official Partners and from Hawke's Bay Regional Council.

For the latest downloadable version go to our home page here:  www.hbtrails.nz

Here's a fantastic NZ Herald Travel article, all about why you need a cycling holiday riding Hawke's Bay Trails and a few more good reasons visit our region. Thanks Sarah Bennett.

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/travel/post-lockdown-planning-cycling-holidays-in-napier-and-hawkes-bay/HAQYKDAK56D6YUZVMNMFJUQC24/

Construction of a second flood wall underneath Ahuriri Estuary Bridge has started and is expected to be completed in mid July.
The trail is open during construction, however please follow all safety signage.

Officially re-opened on Tuesday 15th June 2021, the Tuki Tuki Loop section of the Landscapes Ride is again open, and it is a stunner. We've created a new off-road 2.7km section to avoid the most unsafe part of this loop. Expect both off-road and on-road sections and a few hills while passing by olive groves, vineyards, orchards and enjoying beautiful views of  the Tuki Tuki river/valley and the majestic Te Mata peak. 

This new off-road section of trail is freshly completed and as expected, it’s quite soft until in packs down. So please use caution when riding it, remember to keep left and give way at all road crossings. We have a few final safety touches to come, however you can head out and have a ride now. For more info on best way to ride this 30k loop check out the Fav Rides Section on our website, look for the 'Tuki Tuki Loop - Landscapes Ride'. 

Local tip: Red Bridge Coffee is our latest Official Partner, located on the ride at Red Bridge. Welcome Mel and your fabulous team  - there will be many cyclists enjoying your coffee and treats.

Fabulous to host the 5th Hawke's Bay Sotheby's International Realty Marathon, wonderful to see so many running on our Hawke's Bay Trails. As always the energy and support around this event has been wonderful, thanks to all who ran or walked, supported, volunteered and helped with this amazing event.

Hawke’s Bay is a winner in winter, boasting one of the country’s best networks of easygoing, free-draining cycle trails with the bonus of plenty of off-season sun and mild temperatures.

The Hawke's Bay Trails' 200km-plus network of coastal, cross-country and riverside pathways link lashings of must-see sights such as bird-filled wetlands, Napier’s beautiful art deco buildings, wineries galore and friendly pubs where you can tuck into great local grub. It really has got something for everyone – from wine-touring and art and architecture, to restful contemplation of natural wonders and panoramic views.

Local tour company Tākaro Trails can help you make the most of your time on the trail, offering a range of cycling tours with plenty of scope to tailor them to your group’s skills, interests and itineraries. Tākaro Trails’ Three-day Highlight Tour is the perfect mid-winter trip, looping widely around the region on easy, flat trails taking in the region’s stunning scenery. The tour generally features 30–55km riding each day, most of which is on dedicated off-road pathways lining the riversides, wetland and coast, and traversing beautiful countryside. This tour has plenty of flexiblity, starting with three different levels of accommodation to suit your budget. Choose the distance you want to ride each day, arrange special pick-ups and drop-offs, and add in all sorts of extras such as dinner at the restaurant of your choice. E-bikes are also available.

Three-day Hawke’s Bay tour highlights:

• art deco Napier & Marine Parade
• wineries including Black Barn, Te Mata, Sileni & Trinity Hill
• beautiful riverside Puketapu Loop for a pub lunch
• Ahuriri Estuary Trail
• fascinating earthquake history
• artisan local flavours – cheese, honey, fresh produce
• optional detour to Cape Kidnappers wineries including Clearview
• flexibility to extend your stay, see more and do more

Read more about Tākaro Trails' tours 

 If you have any questions regarding Hawke's Bay Trails, we’re checking social media regularly and the Regional Council is taking calls on 06 835 9200 or 0800 108 838.

Te Matua-a-Māui Art and Heritage trail unveiled Te Waka Huhua - The Waka of Plenty this morning. Blessed by local kaumatua Tom Mulligan, from Matahiwi Marae and opened by Sandra Hazlehurst, Mayor Hastings District Council. This amazing sculpture sits on the Landscapes ride, on the Cape Coast section between Haumoana and Te Awanga. You can find it the ride in our Fav Rides section of this website, look for the 'Kidnappers Coast Ride', from Clive to Clifton. Bought to you by the Cape Coast Art & Heritage Trust with help from the local community. Go check out this latest Ricks Terstappen sculpture - can you find the kiore or rat?