This article was first published in the Tararua Tramper Volume 96 No.1 February 2024
Hawke’s Bay cycling trip
20-23 November 2023
On Monday morning, with a mixed weather forecast, we drove to Hawke’s Bay, making our first major stop for lunch at Norsewood. The plan for a ride in the countryside to Ormondville and return was abandoned because of the rain. Instead, after visiting the local café, we explored the Wop Wops Wetland Park, known for its large longfin eels, followed by a visit to and purchases from the New Zealand Natural Clothing Shop, more commonly known as Norsewear.
On day two the drizzle persisted. We selected a shorter ride to Taradale, to cross the Tutaekuri River and have lunch at the Silky Oak Chocolate shop. The Redclyffe Bridge was now open, having been closed for six months after being severely damaged during the Cyclone Gabrielle event in February.
On day three the drizzle cleared soon after departure, and we rode the coastal trail to Clifton and return. Highlights were the reconstructed railway bridge over the Ngaruroro River, the birdlife on the Clive coastal lakes, particularly a royal spoonbill nest, and a lone fur seal at our Clifton lunch spot.
On our final day of cycling, in sunny weather, we completed the Water Ride via the north coast towards Bay View, through the conservation areas adjacent to the airport, observing birdlife in the estuaries from the bird-watching viewing points.
A total of over 150 kms was ridden on some very nice cycleways. Although there was plenty of evidence of the destruction caused by the cyclone, the repairs were to a high standard. Some of our participants stayed on for another day in Napier to make the most of the spell of good weather.
Eighty percent of the cycle tracks had been returned to service and on average in good condition, The Water Ride, adjacent the Airport, had considerable improvements from raising the level of the pathways around some tidal areas under bridges.
The only closed trails were along parts of Tutaekuri River stopbanks, including one to Puketapu where there was serious damage alongside the river. Work was progressing in repairing these areas.
For those thinking of visiting the area, accommodation prices have increased. The need for social housing appears to have decreased, but contractors have taken their place, for the rebuild. It is great to see that Hawke’s Bay is now welcoming visitors and tourists.
- Party members
- Robyn and Frank Usmar (leaders and scribe), Kwai Chan, Michele Dickson, Julia Fraser, Ann Hayman, Neil Parker, Jennifer Roberts, Sue Wilson, Cos and Sue Van Lier