GISBORNE BIKE RENTAL FIELD GUIDE
From Arboretum Paths to Ngatapa Rush: The Eastwoodhill Express
A supported, approximately six‑hour shuttle-and-bike loop out of Tairāwhiti Gisborne that pairs a walk through one of the southern hemisphere’s great arboreta with an exhilarating downhill ride and cellar‑door tasting.
From Arboretum Paths to Ngatapa Rush: The Eastwoodhill Express.
Adventure brief
From Arboretum Paths to Ngatapa Rush: The Eastwoodhill Express
You are shuttled from Tairāwhiti Gisborne to Eastwoodhill Arboretum, a 131‑hectare collection of exotic and native plantings established by Douglas Cook and regarded as the most comprehensive collection of Northern Hemisphere trees south of the equator; after a walk through signposted paths and viewpoints you swap boots for a bike and descend Ngatapa Hill back toward the productive Poverty Bay Flats and nearby cellar doors.
Experience Gisborne invites adventure seekers to the Eastwoodhill Express, a six-hour supported bike tour showcasing one of New Zealand’s most unique natural assets. Located near the city of Gisborne on the North Island’s rugged east coast, this trip combines immersive arboretum walks with a scenic cycling route through rich pastoral landscapes and renowned vineyards.
The journey begins with a comfortable shuttle from Tairāwhiti Gisborne to Eastwoodhill Arboretum, a sprawling 131-hectare sanctuary established by Douglas Cook. Eastwoodhill boasts the largest and most varied collection of Northern Hemisphere trees found south of the equator, including champion specimens of redwoods, oaks, and maples. Visitors can meander along well-marked trails that suit varying fitness levels, culminating in a climb to Mt Arateitei. From here, panoramic views sweep across the arboretum’s vast canopy and the undulating hills beyond.
After soaking in the botanical diversity and peaceful atmosphere, the tour shifts gears to cycling. Riders will savor an exhilarating descent down Ngatapa Hill, a thrilling downhill segment rewarding riders with speed and stunning vista moments. The ride continues across the expansive Poverty Bay Flats, where fertile soils nurture premium vineyards. The day closes with a visit to a local cellar door offering an expertly curated vineyard platter paired with regional wines, a perfect blend of nature and culture.
This tour suits all skill levels with mostly easy rides covering approximately 35 kilometers. Bikes and helmets are provided, making it accessible and low-stress. The combined experience of forest immersion, dynamic cycling, and wine tasting highlights why Eastwoodhill Express stands out as a compelling outdoor adventure in the Gisborne region. It captures the essence of Tairāwhiti’s diverse landscapes and local heritage in a single, unforgettable itinerary.
Route Schematic
Route at a glance
A supported loop that begins with a shuttle to Eastwoodhill Arboretum, moves through walks and viewpoints, then transitions to a downhill bike leg returning through vineyard country.
Shuttle from Tairāwhiti Gisborne
Group shuttle transfers participants from Tairāwhiti Gisborne to Eastwoodhill Arboretum to begin the day.
Eastwoodhill Arboretum walk
Explore signposted paths across the 131‑hectare arboretum; options include flat tree‑lined routes and a steeper climb to Mt Arateitei for panoramic views.
Ngatapa Hill descent
Change of pace to cycling for an exhilarating downhill run on Ngatapa Hill, followed by easy riding across the flats.
Return through Poverty Bay Flats and cellar‑door
Wind back across the productive Poverty Bay Flats, finishing with a vineyard platter and a wine tasting at a local cellar door.
The outing is described as easy riding and covers roughly +/- 35 kilometres; Eastwoodhill walks cater for a range of fitness and ability levels, and maps are available from the visitors’ centre.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Eastwoodhill Arboretum — a living collection
Eastwoodhill covers over 131 hectares of exotic and native trees, shrubs and climbers planted by Douglas Cook; its clearly signposted walks range from flat tree‑lined paths to steeper climbs that open wide views across the arboretum and countryside.
Ngatapa Hill — the downhill change of pace
After the arboretum walk the route switches to bikes for an exhilarating descent down Ngatapa Hill and an easy‑riding loop of roughly +/- 35 kilometres back toward Gisborne across largely flat farmland.
Poverty Bay Flats and cellar‑door finishes
The return crosses the productive Poverty Bay Flats — home to quality vineyards and wineries — and includes a vineyard platter and wine tasting at a local Tairāwhiti Gisborne cellar door.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The day opens with a calm, contemplative walk among mature plantings at Eastwoodhill; later the tempo lifts — you mount a provided bike and follow roads down Ngatapa Hill, enjoying easy riding across the coastal flats before lingering over a vineyard platter and tasting at a local cellar door.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this supported outing suits
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Approximately 6 hours total for the shuttle, arboretum time, cycling and cellar‑door stop.
Comfortable riding clothes and shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a warm jacket and/or raincoat, and a water bottle are recommended.
Shuttle to Eastwoodhill Arboretum, entry to Eastwoodhill, a refreshment at Eastwoodhill, vineyard platter and wine tasting, plus bike and helmet are all included.
A guide for the day, a jeep/walking tour, or shuttle outside city limits are available by enquiry only.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the Eastwoodhill Express take?
The experience runs for approximately 6 hours.
What is the cycling distance and difficulty?
The route involves easy riding and covers roughly +/- 35 kilometres overall, with a notable downhill section on Ngatapa Hill.
What is included in the tour price?
Included are the shuttle to Eastwoodhill Arboretum, entry into Eastwoodhill, a refreshment at Eastwoodhill, a vineyard platter and wine tasting, plus bike and helmet.
Where does the trip depart from?
Participants are shuttled from Tairāwhiti Gisborne to Eastwoodhill Arboretum to begin the experience.
What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable riding clothes and shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a warm jacket or raincoat and a water bottle.
Can I add a guide or other transport?
Yes — a guide for the day, a jeep/walking tour, or shuttle outside city limits can be arranged by enquiry.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-25T01:18:58.571Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.