Putangirua Pinnacles Walk
Explore the stunning rock formations on a self-guided walk.
Cape Palliser Lighthouse
Climb 253 steps for breathtaking views over Palliser Bay.
Tora Coastal Ride
Cycle through remote farmland and rugged coastline with ocean views.
Explore the rugged beauty of the Wairarapa coast on this epic three-day cycling adventure. Ride across private farm tracks with stunning views of Palliser Bay, visit the striking Putangirua Pinnacles, and cycle along the remote Cape Palliser Road to Ngawi. Encounter the North Island’s largest fur seal colony, climb to the Cape Palliser Lighthouse for sweeping ocean views, and discover the legendary Kupe’s Sail rock formation. Experience thrilling 4WD track riding to Tora, followed by an unforgettable coastal ride through Te Awaiti Station’s wild and untouched landscapes. With expert guides, exclusive access to private land, and incredible scenery, this is a true backcountry cycling experience.
Day 1 - Tuhitarata - Ngawi
Riding distance: approximately 50km (quiet rural and coastal roads)
After a tour briefing, we stop at the wonderfully quirky Landgirl Café in Pirinoa for coffee and one of their famous cheese scones before beginning our ride towards Palliser Bay.
Following quiet rural roads, we make our way to the dramatic Putangirua Pinnacles. Here, you’ll have time for a self-guided walk among the remarkable rock formations while lunch is prepared.
After lunch, we continue east along the spectacular Cape Palliser Road. With the rugged Aorangi Range on one side and sweeping views across Palliser Bay on the other, the route carries us through the small coastal settlements towards Ngawi.
Our day finishes at Waimeha, where some excellent local kai and a memorable evening hosted by the legendary JP await.
Day 2 - Cape Palliser to Tora
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.
Accommodation: The Tora Cookhouse
Dinner: BBQ
Day 3 - Discover the magnificent Tora Coastline
Today we continue our glorious coastal rides by cycling along the coast through the historic Te Awaiti Station.
This is an awesome day where we discover the awesome native bush trails, river valley trails, open coastal farmland and the wild and untouched coastline of Te Awaiti. Sensational views and an unrivalled trail ride
At the end of the day we will transport you back to Martinborough with timing to suit your evening or other travel arrangements.