Puketapu Loop

On a hot summer’s day you can't beat a cruisey ride through old graceful trees along the Tutaekuri River followed by a pit stop at the iconic Puketapu Pub for a cold drink and a snack.

Distance: 18km
Trail Status: Open
Surface: Lime sand and short on-road section
Traffic: Light to Moderate
Grade: 1-2

From FishBike, follow the signs for Church Road and then Taradale. In Taradale at the Perigrew Arena, look for the signposts and trail near the entrance, just off Gloucester Street. From the stopbank path beside the car park, the crushed limestone trail leads you up one side of the river to Puketapu village, cross the on-road one lane bridge on Vicarage Road, turn sharply after the bridge and head back down the other side of the river. Cross the river for the second time near Waiohiki Marae at Redcliff bridge, using the cycle/ walking clip-on to return to the carpark. This trail can be ridden in either direction.

Puketapu has a charming, award-winning country tavern (The Puketapu) the perfect stop for coffee, cold drinks snacks or authentic kiwi pub style meals.

Distance: 18km
Trail Status: Open
Surface: Crushed limestone and short on-road section
Traffic: Light to Moderate
Grade: 1-2

For a slightly longer rides start at FishBike, 10Km to Waitangi Regional Park and head inland. It’s about 10km from the coast to Taradale following the crushed limestone trail. This option loop is about 38km return.
At king tides or after heavy rain up-stream, the underpass at Awatoto sometimes has tidal flooding. Use caution to cross, or avoid during/ after heavy rain.