Distance 78.4km
Grade Intermediate (Grade 3/4)
Time 2-3 Days
Location Kahurangi National Park
About the Ride
The Heaphy Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks and a bucket-list ride for mountain bikers. It is unique in that it is only open to bikers during the winter season (May 1 to November 30). The track crosses the Kahurangi National Park, offering the most diverse scenery of any Great Walk.
You’ll start (typically) from the Golden Bay side, climbing up to the expansive Gouland Downs, before descending through lush rainforest featuring giant Rata trees and Nikau palms to the wild West Coast beaches.
Key Highlights
- Gouland Downs: Limestone outcrops and tussock plains that feel prehistoric.
- Suspension Bridges: Exciting swing bridges crossing major rivers.
- Coastal Section: Riding right alongside the crashing waves of the Tasman Sea.
- Nikau Palms: The most significant grove of Nikau palms in the country.
How to Ride
On the Cheap
$105 / person / personA true wilderness adventure. Simple, effective, and unforgettable.
- 2 Nights in Great Walk Huts
- Self-catered (Gas cookers provided)
- Standard shuttle bus from Karamea back to start
- Carry all gear
No Expense Spared
$950+ / person / personTurn the logistics into part of the adventure with scenic flights.
- Scenic Flight from Karamea return to Takaka
- Pre-ride accommodation in Golden Bay
- Gourmet freelance catering (dehydrated)
- Premium full-suspension bike hire