This wide, smooth path affords stunning views across the Pacific Ocean, Tukituki River and countless vineyards (it's the GREEN section on the Hawke's Bay Trails map).
The main sections include:
Cape Coast - Clive to Clifton
Setting off from the south-eastern side of the Clive River follow the main path towards the sea and follow the path along the shoreline contours before turning back inland once you reach the Tukituki River stopbank. You'll cross the river at Black Bridge and head into the coastal village of Haumoana (with a couple of coffee stops) then through Te Awanga and to the end of the path at Clifton. You'll have largely interrupted views towards the iconic Cape Kidnappers for much of the journey.
Options for refreshments include Clearview Estate, Elephant Hill, and Te Awanga Estate wineries, along with the delightful Hygge at Clifton Bay at the far end of the journey.
From early November to late February, the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers is a marvel of nature. Book your overland with Gannet Safaris.
Approx. 15km of riding
The Tukituki Loop
Park up at River Road, and head off back up towards Te Mata Road and Havelock North. Head over Te Mata Mangateretere Road and turn left on to the newly developed cycle path which takes riders up and over the small rise and into the valley beneath Te Mata Peak, before crossing the main ride to ride past (or perhaps stop in at) the legendary Craggy Range Winery.
Continue through the tree-lined paths towards Red Bridge where you can cross the Tukituki River, turning left onto Tukituki Road. The locals' favourite Red Bridge Coffee is an ideal spot for a refreshment before continuing your journey. The next section involves approx. 10km of riding on the road, with a few climbs thrown in as you ride through Tuscan-like landscapes. On the final descent, look out for the left turn into Moore Road - at the bottom you can connect back with limestone trails on the stopbanks, which you will follow all the way to Black Bridge.
Up and over Black Bridge, and you can turn left back onto the stopbanks to follow the Tukituki River all the way back to your car at River Road. Stop in at Askerne winery, accessible directly off the cycle trail, for a tasting and bite to eat.
Approx. 30km of riding
Havelock North to Clive
Riding out from Havelock North, follow Te Mata Road all the way to the end, where you'll pass plenty of tempting stops including Black Barn Vineyards and Te Mata Estate. Cross over Te Mata Mangateretere Road onto River Road, and onto the limestone path atop the Tukituki River stopbank.
From here, it's easy riding all the way to Black Bridge, where you can use the underpass to emerge on the other side of the bridge and then rejoining the trails through a gate. Continue along the path sitting above orchards as you ride towards the ocean, with a brief period riding parallel to the shoreline. As you admire the Waitangi Wetlands, you'll turn left back towards Clive to ride along the banks of the Clive River.
Arriving in Clive, you have the choice of stopping for refreshments, before either continuing towards Napier, or returning via the same path to Havelock North.
Approx. 18km of riding
For the most up to date information and maps, refer to the Hawke's Bay Trails website.