E-Bikes - The Big Backcountry Ride

Set against the raw, expansive landscapes of New Zealand’s Manawatū-Whanganui region, River Valley Ventures offers a standout adventure with The Big Backcountry Ride—a full-day, 40-kilometer e-bike journey rolling from the high country down to the comfort of River Valley Lodge. Starting atop the famous Gentle Annie on the Napier–Taihape Road, riders are immediately treated to sweeping views of Mt. Ruapehu and the rugged Otupae and Ruahine Ranges, setting an elevated tone for the day.

This route winds through the vast pastoral stations of Otupae and Mangaohane, lands steeped in farming heritage and open space, before descending to the Rangitikei River crossing at Mangaohane Bridge. Here, on warmer days, a refreshing river swim is an inviting reward, offering an authentic way to cool off amid nature’s tranquility. The varied terrain includes long stretches of exhilarating downhill rides paired with a handful of steady climbs—perfectly suited to e-bikes that amplify your pedaling power while maintaining ease and stability.

River Valley Ventures equips riders with a choice of well-maintained e-bikes ranging from step-through frames to mountain-bike styles, accommodating riders of different preferences and sizes. Their operation is deeply connected to the local landscape, offering shuttle services and optional picnic lunches that elevate a simple ride to a carefully curated outdoor experience. What sets this trip apart in the Taihape area is its seamless blend of high-country grandeur and gentle riverside charm, accessible through electric pedal-assist that lets you focus on the scenery and your ride’s rhythm.

River Valley Ventures plays an important role in the local outdoor scene by providing an eco-conscious way to experience terrain that’s otherwise challenging for many, making high-adventure backcountry more approachable. Whether you’re chasing big views, crisp river air, or a day of active immersion in New Zealand’s wide-open spaces, The Big Backcountry Ride hooks you into a distinct slice of wild that’s rarely so smoothly delivered.