Adventure brief
Coast to Country
Cycle 20km along New Zealand’s Cape Coast with Napier City Bike Hire, stopping at premiere wineries and admiring views of Te Mata Peak. This easy-paced ride combines fresh air, local flavor, and scenic backroads.
South of Napier in New Zealand’s Hawke's Bay, the Coast to Country ride by Napier City Bike Hire offers a thoughtfully paced 20km cycling route that threads together coastal vistas, rolling vineyards, and the distinctive silhouette of Te Mata Peak. This trip stands out by blending accessible outdoor activity with the region’s celebrated wine culture. Starting from Clifton, riders are transported to the trailhead, where the day unfolds gently with a coffee stop at Hygge Café, a historic sheep station turned cozy local favorite.
The route follows quiet backroads and the Haumoana estuary, where native flax and cabbage trees wave against the ocean breeze. This adds a subtle natural dimension to a trip otherwise punctuated by world-class wineries like Clearview Estate and Elephant Hill. With wine tastings and a recommended lunch stop at one of these vineyards, riders have time to unwind and enjoy the local flavors amid dramatic views of Te Mata Peak—an iconic geological formation that towers over the Tukituki River valley.
What makes this experience particularly inviting is how Napier City Bike Hire simplifies logistics: e-bike and regular bike rentals come with helmets, locks, bags, route maps, mechanical support, and round-trip transport. This fully supported service removes common barriers for casual riders, letting visitors of various fitness levels soak in the scenery without stress or complicated planning. The region itself is one of New Zealand’s oldest viticultural areas, with rich red soils and a Mediterranean climate supporting grape varieties that have gained international acclaim.
By cycling through this landscape, visitors connect with both the natural environment and the local heritage of Hawke’s Bay. Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or a wine lover looking to add subtle adventure to your itinerary, the Coast to Country trip offers a unique outdoor experience at the intersection of rugged coastline and cultivated land.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Reserve winery lunches in advanceessential
Many wineries require bookings on weekends; plan ahead to secure your spot for lunch or tastings.
- 02Bring water and sunscreenessential
Hawke’s Bay sun can be strong—stay hydrated and protect your skin during the ride.
- 03Use provided mechanical supportinfo
Napier City Bike Hire offers on-ride mechanical assistance to keep your journey smooth and stress-free.
- 04Wear comfortable cycling shoesinfo
Choosing the right footwear will enhance pedaling comfort and grip on bike pedals.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable padded cycling shorts
Enhances comfort during the ride, especially over longer distances.
summerEssentialUV protection sunglasses
Protects eyes from glare and UV rays during open-road cycling.
summerEssentialLight rain jacket
Provides weather protection against occasional showers and wind.
spring|fall|winterReusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated on the trail with easy access to fluids.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Hygge Café at Clifton for a quiet coffee stop, Haumoana estuary birdwatching area
Local fauna
Tūī (native songbird), Estuarine fish species
Historic heritage
Te Mata Peak is a culturally significant landmark for local Māori iwi and a defining natural feature of Hawke's Bay.
Mindful exploration
This cycling route emphasizes low-impact travel and supports local wineries committed to sustainable viticulture.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Te Mata Peak vista points, Haumoana estuary boardwalk, Winery cellar doors and vineyards
- Subjects
- Dramatic landscapes, Vineyard rows, Local wildlife like tūī birds
- Best times
- Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon), Mid-morning with softer light
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Are electric bikes available for this tour?
Yes, both electric and regular bikes are offered to fit different rider preferences.
Do I need to book wineries in advance?
Yes, booking lunch and tastings at wineries is recommended, especially on weekends.
Is the cycling route suitable for beginners?
Absolutely—this 20km route is mostly flat with easy terrain, great for novice riders.
What’s included with the bike rental?
Helmet, lock, saddle bag, map with route advice, and mechanical assistance are all included.
Are there age restrictions for riders?
Riders need to fit the bike; those under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian on e-bikes.
How do I get to the trailhead?
Napier City Bike Hire provides transport from their store to the Clifton trailhead for the ride start.