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.
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.
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.