Cape Palliser Pedals – 2 Days

2 days
Moderate
From $800
Palliser Ridge

Palliser Ridge

Enjoy a short but steep farmland ride, stopping at the woolshed and Kaikoura Lookout for spectacular views over Palliser Bay.

Putangirua Pinnacles

Putangirua Pinnacles

Take a self-guided walk among these dramatic rock formations while your lunch is prepared, combining exploration with a perfect midday break.

Cape Palliser Lighthouse & Fur Seal Colony

Cape Palliser Lighthouse & Fur Seal Colony

Encounter the North Island’s largest fur seal colony, then climb 253 steps for sweeping coastal vistas from the historic lighthouse.

Discover the rugged beauty of the South Wairarapa coastline on this exclusive cycling adventure. Ride across private farm tracks with stunning views of Palliser Bay, visit the dramatic Putangirua Pinnacles, and cycle along the remote Cape Palliser Road. Encounter the North Island’s largest fur seal colony, climb to the historic Cape Palliser Lighthouse, and explore the legendary Kupe’s Sail rock formation. Experience thrilling 4WD track riding to Tora, with expert guides ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. With breathtaking landscapes, unique access to private land, and unforgettable coastal scenery, this tour is a true off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Day 1 - Tuhitarata - Ngawi

Day 1

Riding Distance: 50 kms (Sealed Road, Farm Tracks and Quiet, Coastal Road)

After a tour briefing, we visit the funky Landgirl Cafe, at Pirinoa, enjoying their yummy cheese scones and coffee, before starting a short but steep ride across Palliser Ridge Station’s private track, visiting their Woolshed enroute and stop at the Kaikoura Lookout to savour its breathtaking views of Palliser Bay. We ride out on the Cape Palliser Road, turn left (East) and head to the Putangirua Pinnacles.

Enjoy a self-guided walk to view the Putangirua Pinnacles while your lunch is being prepared. After lunch, we continue our journey on the Cape Palliser Road, to Ngawi. At Waimeha, prepare yourself for some amazing kai and a fun-filled night, hosted by the legendary JP.

Day 2 - Cape Palliser to Tora

Day 2

From Waimeha we head towards the Cape Palliser Lighthouse - encountering some great sights en-route.

We visit the North Island’s largest Fur Seal Colony – turn off at Mātakitaki a Kupe Reserve sign and find the seal kindergarten pool by going as far down to the left - right amongst the rocks.

Cape Palliser Lighthouse – walk for the top (climb the 253 steps) for sweeping views over Palliser Bay.

Kupe’s Sail - This huge sandstone slab, on the south Wairarapa coast, is named Ngā Rā o Kupe (Kupe’s Sail), as it resembles the sail of a Polynesian double-hulled canoe. Kupe is an early ancestor of many Māori tribes, and is said to have camped on the flats near this rock as he explored the Coastline

When the road comes to an end, we continue our journey on 4WD tracks to Whiterock and on to Tora. Two Green Jersey guides (positioned front and rear) will ensure a safe passage for all riders. The trail can be pretty bumpy, but is not technically difficult. Our guests are encouraged to hop-off and walk their bikes where required.

The incredible scenery is not to be missed and access to these areas is unique to Green Jersey. We have negotiated permits with both DOC and the land-owners.

At the end of the day we will transport you back to Martinborough with timing to suit your evening or other travel arrangements.

Book This Tour

Price from $800 per person
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Tour Includes:

  • Guide safety and route briefing
  • Bike access over Palliser Ridge Station, including a visit to their eco farm products shop
  • On-ride support, with backup available if needed
  • Lunch at the Putangirua Pinnacles
  • One night’s accommodation (with bag transfer)
  • One breakfast (cooked or continental), two lunches, and one evening meal
  • Shuttle from Cape Palliser back to Martinborough