Cyclists riding across the Bridge to Nowhere, Whanganui | Visit Ruapehu

Scenery along the Mt Ruapehu & the 3 Rivers cycle | George Clerk; Getty Images

Pristine and relaxing nature along the Whanganui Journey

Whanganui Journey looking beautiful and lushes

Cycling the quiet back roads of the Rangitikei District | River Valley Lodge

Scenery along the Mt Ruapehu & the 3 Rivers cycle | Janina Delissen

Scenery along the Mt Ruapehu & the 3 Rivers cycle | Adventure South NZ

Most meals are included. Credit Geoff Marks | Geoff Marks

Our new support vehicles are ready to take on the New Zealand roads. | Rob Pieper

North Island Central Plateau Loop (credit: Adventure South) | Annie Lowie

Our morning tea pitstops are full of delicious treats | Geoff Marks

Typical North Island farm shed | Anne Lowerson

Ready to ride through the Manawatu backroads | Lisa Jones

Mt Ruapehu & the Three Rivers

Name: Mt Ruapehu & the Three Rivers
Brand: Adventure South
SKU: MRR
Rating: 5.00 (8 reviews)

A spectacular journey exploring New Zealand's hidden gem, the Manawatu/Whanganui, a region with active volcanoes, 3 mighty rivers, rich farmland, vibrant forests and a fascinating history.

New Zealand

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8 reviews

6 Days from

$2980 USD

Trip Code: MRR

View dates to Book

Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Bike Rental

$130 USD

Drop Bar Gravel Bike Rental

$210 USD

Ebike Rental

$420 USD

Single Supplement

$480 USD

Duration

6 Days

Activities

6 day road/gravel cycle

Accommodation

5 nights hotel/motel

Meals

3 Dinners
3 Lunches
5 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading

3 / 5

Moderate

Carbon Footprint

23kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(116kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

Enjoy Heartland NZ cycleways through the Manawutu and Whanganui regions
Stay 2 nights in the quaint ski village of Ohakune on the slopes of Mt Ruapehu, an active volcano and the North Island's highest mountain
See the magical Whanganui River up close by bike, jetboat and canoe
Explore the fascinating history surrounding the mighty Whanganui, Whangaehu and Rangitikei Rivers as they flow from the Volcanic Plateau and Ruahine Ranges to the Tasman Sea
Enjoy the remoteness of Makoura Lodge, situated on a high country station owned by the McIntyre family for over 125 years

Overview

Explore untouched hinterland and stunning back country rides on this remarkable tour exploring the Manawatu/Whanganui region in the Lower North Island. The region is dominated by the Volcanic Plateau, an active volcanic and thermal area including the North Island's 3 active peaks, Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. We'll also experience the 'spine' of mountain ranges running through the middle of the central North Island, with gentle rolling farmland on both sides coupled with mystical native forests and fast flowing rivers, which run from the Volcanic Plateau and Mountain spine out to the Tasman Sea.

Our journey begins in the shadow of the highest mountain in the North Island, Mt Ruapehu, following a delightful back country cycle route traversing quiet valleys and the Volcanic Plateau to the ski town of Ohakune on the slopes of the active volcano.

2 nights staying on the Volcanic Plateau provides opportunity to spend a full day adventuring in the Whanganui National Park, exploring the River by jet boat and canoe through gorges and amongst native bush. We follow our on-water adventure with a cycle alongside the River on a delightful back country road finishing in the coastal town of Whanganui.

From here we head into the hidden gem of the Manawatu region for 2 days to ride past soaring cliffs and lush farmland against the dramatic backdrop of the Ruahine Range.

Starting and finishing our trip in the town of Taupo, on the edge of the lake of the same name, provides opportunity to extend your holiday and spend a couple of days exploring New Zealand's largest lake and surrounding adventure playground.

Itinerary

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Welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand and your North Island Adventure! Meeting at a central location in Taupo, we'll start with a short tour briefing, load up and head off to Taihape, the Gumboot Capital of New Zealand (taking approx 2.5 hours). After a bike fitting, safety briefing and a picture by the gigantic iron Gumboot, we head off on our first ride to the ski village of Ohakune, also known as the Carrot Capital of New Zealand..... The ride traverses quiet valleys and the Volcanic Plateau following a series of backroads, both sealed and gravel, with the main attraction of the ride being the delightful landscape. On a clear day the views of the active volcano, Mt Ruapehu, are outstanding as we approach Ohakune. Ohakune's claim to being the Carrot Capital reflects the importance of market gardening in the area, but perhaps of more interest is its proximity to Tongariro National Park and the skifields on the slopes of Mt Ruapehu. On arrival, we'll settle into our accommodation before enjoying our first group dinner Cycle : Taihape to Ohakune Heartland Ride : Up to 51km, +819m, 39% gravel

Meals: D

The Whanganui National Park is a special place which was created to protect the upper reaches of the Whanganui River. Once an important transport route for both Maori and early European settlers, the river flows from Tongariro National Park to the Tasman Sea through wild lowland forests. Today's excursion on the Whanganui River will be a truly memorable excursion. A short transfer to Pipiriki and we start our adventure with a 55 minute jet boat journey upriver 32 kms to the Mangapurua Landing, through an area of spectacular natural features with deep river gorges covered with lush native vegetation. From the drop off, it's an easy grade 40 minute walk following in the footsteps of the early pioneers along the old roadway to the “BRIDGE TO NOWHERE” . Here you will stop for lunch on this historical monument of a bygone era and learn the history from your local guide. The next part of your adventure is an easy grade canoe back down the Whanganui River to Pipiriki, through a landscape of remote hills and bush clad valleys. We'll pass through the scenic gorge of the Manganui o te Ao River and the Ngaporo and Autapu rapids should provide some 'gentle' excitement. More exotic trees and farmland, an eel weir and the Paparoa rapid follow before reaching the boat ramp below Pipiriki village. A short transfer back to Ohakune for a second night. Cycle : No cycling today - jetboat and canoeing

Meals: B,L

Today we're back on our bikes to complete our adventure in the Whanganui National Park. We head back to Pipiriki and ride south along the Whanganui River Road, a fully sealed road but gently undulating with a couple of challenging ascents near the start and finish. The effort, however, is well worth it, not least of all for the elevated views along the river, but also for the many Maori and European heritage sites along the way. Between them, they tell quite the story of New Zealand’s early settlement, beginning with early Maori for whom the river was a primary highway. Major landmarks include Hiruharama (Jerusalem), a Catholic Church and convent built at the end of the nineteenth century and the restored Kawana Flour Mill, built in 1854. We finish the day in the picturesque riverside city of Whanganui, one of the first cities to be founded in NZ. Dinner at your leisure tonight with plenty of options. Cycle : Back country roads, 100% asphalt Standard : Pipiriki to Upokongaro 62km, +955m Avid : Pipiriki to Whanganui 72km, +1140m

Meals: B,L

Mainly following quiet country roads through farmland, the Three Rivers Heartland Ride connects arty Whanganui and the rural hub of Hunterville, making for a picturesque journey passing through heartland Rangitikei. The Three Rivers route traces historic stock routes as it winds its way north to the Volcanic Plateau. Highlights include Whanganui’s quirky Durie Hill elevator, tunnel and tower; and pretty rural scenes. From Hunterwille it's about an hour's transfer to Makoura Lodge, located on a high country station on a remarkable slice of rural New Zealand's landscape. The property has been owned by the McIntyre family since 1896 and our hosts are the 5th generation on the property. Cycle Options : Back country roads Standard : 62km, 890m, 100% asphalt Avid : 73km, +1140m, 25% gravel

Meals: B,D

This morning we enjoy a delightful ride mostly on the Manawatu Cycleway. This area is rich in native bush and lush farmland and there are some amazing photo opportunities as you wind your way down into the Pohangina Valley and follow alongside the Pohangina River on the western flank of the Ruahine Ranges. Head down past the historic Komako St Bartholomew’s Church, a beautiful building that has served as a place of worship for around 100 years. We'll enjoy a picnic lunch in the rural village of Kimbolton, renowned for its world class gardens and quaint country charm and also pass through Apiti, known as the gateway to the Ruahine Ranges. We return to Makoura Lodge for a 2nd night, with our final group dinner to be enjoyed. Cycle Options : Back country roads Standard : 53km, 733m, 16% gravel Avid : 85km, +1183m, 21% gravel

Meals: B,L,D

Today we stay off the beaten track on another scenic and often surprising journey through rural Manawatu, full of natural wonders and local history. We wind our way up the Mangawharariki Valley, following deep sided Papa cliffs with wide ranging views to the Ruahine Ranges and vistas of snow covered Ruapehu in the distance. The ride includes stunning climbs and descents overlooking the Kawhatau River and meanders through pretty valleys and native bush. This will be a memorable final ride, after which we have a 2hr 30 min drive back to Taupo, where you will be dropped in a central location early evening. Cycle Options : Back country roads Standard : 60km, 876m, 27% gravel

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

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What's included?

Included

Tasty breakfasts (x5), lunches (x3), dinners (x3) catered to all dietary requirements
5 nights comfortable motel/lodge accommodation on twin share basis
Whanganui Jetboat & canoe River Adventure
Transport pick up from and drop off to one central Taupo location
Pre departure information kit to help you plan and prepare
Concession fees paid to the Department of Conservation

Not included

Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
All beverages (other than breakfast or trailside)
Bike Hire (available to rent)
International or domestic flights and taxes
Airport Arrival and departure transfers
Water bottle (help us save the environment and bring your own bike drink bottle)
Personal expenses (eg. phone calls, internet, laundry, shopping etc)
Travel insurance

About your guide

Our guides are one of our biggest assets and we pride ourselves on their level of quality and high standards. You will have two experienced members of our guiding team. You’ll know you’re in safe hands as all of our guides are certified in first aid and CPR and many of them are trained bike mechanics. They come from all walks of life but our guides have a common desire to give you the best possible experience, fun and lots of fond memories to take home with you.

Reviews (8)

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Responsible Travel

Extra trip info

Sinch eBikes - Sizes XS, S, M, L, XL

Designed right here in Aotearoa New Zealand, our fleet of Sinch eBikes is made to handle the country’s trails with ease. These pedal-assist bikes take the edge off hills and longer rides thanks to smooth, reliable Shimano motor systems and a comfortable, upright riding position.

They come with front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and air-sprung dropper seat posts to help fine-tune your comfort on the go. The smaller sizes (XS, S, M) feature step-through frames and swept-back handlebars for a relaxed touring posture, while large and XL frames are also available in a step-through option on request.

Whether you’re riding through the Mackenzie Basin, tracing the path of the Molesworth muster, or rolling past vineyards in Hawke’s Bay, the Sinch eBike is built to help you enjoy the ride.

Tap the arrows left and right to explore the other bikes on offer for this tour.

Sinch eBike (Front suspension mountain bike style) - Sizes L & XL

They come with front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and air-sprung dropper seat posts to help fine-tune your comfort on the go. Large and XL frames are also available in a step-through option on request.

Whether you’re riding through the Mackenzie Basin, tracing the path of the Molesworth muster, or rolling past vineyards in Hawke’s Bay, the Sinch eBike is built to help you enjoy the ride.

Tap the arrows left and right to explore the other bikes on offer for this tour.

Avanti Discovery - Hard Tail Mountain Bike (Not an eBike)

Our custom Avanti Discovery bikes are built for real-world Aotearoa New Zealand trails — simple, solid, and comfortable. Fast-rolling tyres and upgraded suspension forks keep things smooth over mixed terrain, while the 1x10 drivetrain makes gear changes easy and intuitive.

Hydraulic disc brakes give you reliable stopping power, and the rear rack fitted with one of our rack bags (included in hire) is ideal for stashing your layers, lunch or camera. With a relaxed upright riding position, this is a great choice for those who want a traditional, pedal-powered ride without sacrificing comfort.

Whether you’re cruising through the Roxburgh Gorge, flying across the Shotover Bridge, or pedalling beside the wild surf of the Taranaki coast, the Avanti Discovery is a dependable trail mate.

This bike is also available in a low-step model on request!

Tap the arrows left and right to explore the other bikes available to rent for this tour.

Avanti Gran-Durance 3 - Drop Bar Bike

The Avanti Gran-Durance 3 is our go-to do it all drop bar bike — stable, responsive, and ready for the kind of North island riding we love to share. Built with a lightweight aluminium frame and fork, it’s designed for long days in the saddle, with relaxed geometry that takes the edge off the climbs and keeps you feeling confident on the descents.

It’s the perfect match for the kind of riding we love to share.

Tap the arrows left and right to explore the other bikes available to rent for this tour.