Remutaka Rail Trail Mountain Bike Explorer Cycle Tour

Wellington , New Zealand

Remutaka Rail Trail Mountain Bike Explorer Cycle Tour

Active

(47 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the Remutaka area’s rich rail history and natural beauty on an easy, all-inclusive, 6 hour mountain biking day trip. The flagship of the Remutaka Cycle Trail, this trail is suitable for riders of all levels. Cycle through native forest, over bridges and through tunnels while enjoying views of the natural landscape and the old railway system. Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch at the Summit and embark on a fun (but easily controllable) descent to Cross Creek in the Wairarapa, home to some of New Zealand’s most scenic farmland.

You will be provided with everything you will need for your adventure - transport to and from Wellington Station, bikes with trunk bags for your personal effects, and all food - so all you need to do is wear appropriate clothing and be ready to ride!

Please note this day trip is for a Regular Mountain Bike, if you would like to ride an eBike instead, please book the other day trip: 'Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Explorer Cycle Tour'.

Available options

Mountain Bike

Capable & comfortable Mountain Bike

What's included

Lunch and water provided - Please message us your dietary restrictions or if you eat anything ASAP!

All equipment - mountain bikes, helmets and other safety gear, lights and a pannier bag.

All transport - shuttles to and from Wellington

All taxes/fees are included in the headline price - no hidden extras.

Detailed itinerary

We'll pick you up at either 9.15am from Wellington Port (cruise ship guests only) or 9.30am from Wellington Station (main entrance) and shuttle you to the start of the trail at at Kaitoke.

Start point for your 28km ride at Kaitoke, on the trail, you’ll start by cycling through the native bird-filled Pakuratahi Forest. Follow an old railway line over bridges and through tunnels, while pausing, if you like, to check out information stations detailing the enormous task of constructing the “Fell” railway system - a first for New Zealand at the time, and one of only a few around the world. Once you reach the summit, you will stop for a picnic lunch on a large grassy plateau next to the remnants of a historic station. After lunch, enjoy an exhilarating (but easily controllable!) descent to Cross Creek in the Wairarapa, with views of some of New Zealand’s stunning farming heartland. Follow the path along the countryside to Featherston and we'll see you at the Royal Hotel.

Stop 3 Pass by

We'll pick you up at the Royal Hotel in Featherston, before we shuttle you back over the Remutaka ranges, down the Hutt Valley and back to Wellington Station (arriving approx. 3.30-3.45pm) or Wellington Port (cruise ship guests only, arriving approx. 3.45-4.00pm).

Please note: if you are on a cruise ship, we pick you up direct from the Port at 9.15am. We cannot wait for late arrivals - make sure you are there on time otherwise the shuttle will leave without you! We arrive back at Port between 3.45pm - 4pm. Please check that your sailing times allow for these timings, we will not be held responsible if you miss your boat!

What's not included

Ecludes on-trail guide - our friendly staff will brief you and answer any questions you may have

Available languages

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

17 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

30 reviews

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please provide the following at time of booking, so we can make sure your day goes smoothly:

Info regarding your dietary requirements - eg "no seafood please", "gluten free", "vegetarian"

Your approximate height (for bike sizing)

Trips are subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund at your discretion.

Please wear appropriate clothing for outdoor activity. During the warmer months, this means shorts and a t-shirt for riding, and a light jacket in reserve. During the colder months you may prefer long pants or tights (nothing baggy that may catch on the bike!), with a tshirt, fleece and light jacket in reserve. Closed shoes - running shoes are perfect - must be worn at all times.

Which pickup location would you like to be picked up from? Choose from either 9.15 Wellington Port (cruise ship guests only) or 9.30 Wellington Station (main entrance)

Meeting point

Meet outside the main entrance at 9:30am, we will arrive in a white van with 'Wildfinder' signage and a bike trailer, you can't miss us!

Important notes

• Cancellations: Trips are subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund at your discretion.
• What to Wear: Please wear appropriate clothing for outdoor activity. During the warmer months, this means shorts and a t-shirt for riding, and a light jacket in reserve. During the colder months you may prefer long pants or tights (nothing baggy that may catch on the bike!), with a t-shirt, fleece and light jacket in reserve. Closed shoes - running shoes are perfect - must be worn at all times.
• Departure Time: either 9.15am Wellington Port (cruise ship guests only) or 9.30am Wellington Station (main entrance)
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not wheelchair accessible

Please note: if you are on a cruise ship, we pick you up direct from the Port at 9.15am. We cannot wait for late arrivals - make sure you are there on time otherwise the shuttle will leave without you! We arrive back at Port between 3.45pm - 4pm. Please check that your sailing times allow for these timings, we will not be held responsible if you miss your boat!

About Wellington

Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is a vibrant city known for its arts scene, coffee culture, and stunning natural surroundings. Nestled between rolling hills and the harbor, it offers a unique blend of urban life and outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Te Papa Museum

Te Papa is New Zealand's national museum, showcasing the country's art, history, and natural environment.

Museum 2-3 hours Free entry, some exhibits may have fees

Wellington Botanic Garden

A beautiful garden with a variety of plant collections, walking trails, and scenic views of the city.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Mount Victoria Lookout

A scenic lookout offering panoramic views of Wellington and the surrounding coastline.

Nature 1 hour Free

Weta Workshop

A special effects workshop famous for its work on films like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Cultural 1-2 hours NZD 30-50

Wellington Cable Car

A historic cable car offering scenic views of the city and harbor.

Historical 30 minutes NZD 5-10

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hangi

A traditional Māori method of cooking food in an earth oven. The food is wrapped in leaves and cooked underground for several hours.

Dinner Contains meat, vegetarian and vegan options available.

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Contains eggs and dairy, vegan options available.

Fish and Chips

A classic New Zealand dish featuring fresh fish, usually snapper or tarakihi, coated in batter and deep-fried, served with chips (fries).

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and gluten, vegetarian and vegan options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Mountain biking Spa treatments Beach lounging Picnicking Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

December to February

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 22°C 59°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Māori, New Zealand Sign Language
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Wellington is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of common safety precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being cautious in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Wellington Airport • 6 km from city center

By train

Wellington Railway Station

By bus

Wellington Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Metlink is the main public transport system in Wellington, offering a network of buses, trains, and ferries.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

CBD (Central Business District) Te Aro Miramar Karangahape Road (K' Road)

Day trips

Red Rocks

30 km from Wellington • Half day

A scenic coastal area known for its rugged cliffs, sea lions, and wildlife.

Matiu/Somes Island

20 km from Wellington • Half day

A small island in Wellington Harbour with a rich history and scenic views.

Kapiti Coast

60 km from Wellington • Full day

A scenic coastal area known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and hiking trails.

Festivals

Wellington Cup Week • Late February to early March Wellington on a Plate • August Wellington Jazz Festival • Early October

Pro tips

Visit Te Papa Museum, New Zealand's national museum, for a comprehensive overview of the country's art, history, and natural environment.
Explore the vibrant and eclectic Cuba Street, known for its boutique shops, cafes, and street art.
Take a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car for scenic views of the city and harbor.
Visit the Weta Workshop for a behind-the-scenes look at the special effects workshop famous for its work on films like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
Enjoy Wellington's thriving coffee culture by visiting one of the numerous specialty coffee shops and roasteries.