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PHOTOS FROM THE 2010 CYCLE SERIES CAN BE ORDERED. EMAIL
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VIEW PHOTOS FOR 7 NOV 2010
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Gorges to Sea (Gorgeous to See) Cycle Trails.
FAT TYRE RIDES With its breath-taking scenery and variety of ascents/descents, the Rangitikei Gorges to Sea Trails offer something for everyone, from a leisurely family outing to an almighty challenge for even the fittest of cyclists.
For more information: Contact the Information Centre Email:
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Phone: 06 388 0604 Fax: 06 388 1919
Click here to view all cycle trails click here to view tidal information
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RIVER VALLEY

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MAJOR SPONSOR OF THE GORGES TO SEA CYCLE SERIES
Michael Hutchins won the River Valley 'Double Trouble' Package - read his comments below:-
"We had a fabulous time at River Valley! We sent Brian a very sincere Thankyou card, and have since been back for lunch, taking my daughter and another friend. We did the scenic rafting trip with our own delightful guide, Ants. Really, I have travelled the wide world over, but nowhere did I find such magnificence and serenity. The pools, the cliffs, the rapids, it is like a splendid dream.
Our deluxe room was comfortable and scrupulously clean, peaceful, and of course with a beautiful outlook. The meals were hearty and graciously served. All of the staff were vivacious,warm, and fun.
We swam in the spectacular natural pool in the river, had a massage, relaxed in the evening in the truly breathtaking spot, there under the sacred Mount Aorangi.
Thank you for facilitating our unbelievable Christmas present!"
Warmest regards,
Michael and Adele.
Visit www.rivervalley.co.nz for more information
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Thanks to Pub Charity for supporting Rangitikei Tourism with the Gorges to Sea Cycle Series 2010. |
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| Omatane |
Maps for each trail can be printed - see the PDF link next to each Trail below. |
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Utiku to Mangaweka 32 km - download the OMATANE trail A hilly ride but the effort is rewarded. The road south from Taihape to the Gorge Road turnoff (6km) is on SH1. Immediately after the turnoff a small bridge crosses the Hautapu stream. As with other bridges in the area it is worth a look down. The junction at Omatane gives views of the Rangitikei canyons at their best. Omatane South Road is arduous but is compensated by an exhilarating down hill run on Potaka Road into the picturesque Kawhatau River Valley. Shortly before the bridge over the Rangitikei River, there is a short walkway to a dam that in times past provided power and water to Mangaweka. The Mangaweka Domain is an idyllic spot for camping and swimming. Mangaweka township is a quirky village with a ghost town flavour. It is now reincarnating itself as an adventure tourism centre. There are cafés, a pub and some accommodation |
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| Pemberton |
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Mangaweka to Vinegar Hill 53.73km - download the PEMBERTON trail This is a day in the country which starts and ends on the Rangitikei River. Starting from Mangaweka township, the route crosses the bridge at the domain. Following the Mangawharariki River on Ruahine Road, the route heads up towards Rangiwahia with views of the Ruahine Ranges all the way. At 11km from SH1, a 2km (return) side trip can be had to the Ruahine Dress Circle, an attractive picnic spot with a waterfall. There is a small settlement at Rangiwahia which boasts a basic camping ground (but no shops). At Pemberton the road descends and then undulates until the Vinegar Hill Domain which marks the end of the trail. The domain is a beautiful place and is ideal for camping and swimming.
Hunterville is another 8km farther on but there is a steady climb out of the river and a section (6km) on SH1. To avoid a narrow section of SH1 shortly before Hunterville, head down Kotukutuku Road (left, south-east).
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| Mt Curl |
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Hunterville to Marton 34 km - download the MT CURL trail This trail has a steep climb worthy of the Tour de France, but the reward is the unparalleled views from the summit of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Taranaki, Kapiti and the Ruahines. The trail begins at Hunterville which is a good place for accommodation and supplies. (For those wishing to eschew the rigours of Mount Curl there is an alternative route via Leedstown Road.) A long undulating downhill (gravel in places) follows to Marton, the capital of the Rangitikei District. Marton has ample accommodation, refreshments, supplies and two bike shops. |
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| Tangimoana |
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Marton to Himitangi 55km - download the TANGIMOANA trail Marton lies at the centre of the lush Rangitikei plains. The hills are left behind and the terrain is flat. The route heads south running parallel to the Rangitikei River past Bulls to the sea. Bulls is the last town on the cycle way before Himatangi. The river provides opportunities for camping, swimming and similar. This is wide scrubby country where the Samba deer roam at large. When the sea is reached, the route heads east then south along the coast to Himatangi Beach (8km). The sand can be soft – the best time is within 2 hours each side of low tide (check Dominion or Wanganui Chronicle weather section). Partially deflate tyres. There is a motor camp at Himatangi Beach. It is a good place for refreshments. Foxton (along the beach) is 10km farther on. |
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