Eastwoodhill Express Bike Tour by Experience Gisborne
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours approx
Fitness Level
Suitable for riders with basic fitness who can handle light cycling and moderate walking.
Overview
Discover the Eastwoodhill Express—a unique supported bike tour blending lush arboretum walks and scenic vineyard rides near Gisborne. Embark on a day of nature, cycling thrills, and local wine indulgence.
Eastwoodhill Express • Supported
For All ages! • 6 Hours Approx!
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About This Adventure
Duration
6 Hours Approx
About
You will be shuttled from Tairāwhiti Gisborne to Eastwoodhill Arboretum. Eastwoodhill encompasses over 131 hectares planted in exotic and native trees, shrubs, and climber plantings. The collection was planted by Douglas Cook and is regarded as the largest and most comprehensive collection of Northern Hemisphere trees south of the equator. Begin your day with a walk around the magnificent gardens. Eastwoodhill walks cater for all levels of fitness and abilities, from flat tree lined paths to a steep climb up Mt Arateitei which rewards visitors with glorious views of the arboretum and the surrounding countryside. All walks are clearly signposted, and maps are available from the visitors’ centre.
When you are ready, get on your bike, prepare for a change of pace as you head down Ngatapa Hill, an exhilarating downhill route. Wind your way back to Tairāwhiti Gisborne through the productive Poverty Bay Flats, home to quality vineyards and wineries. Enjoy a vineyard platter and wine tasting at one of our lovely Tairāwhiti Gisborne cellar doors.
This tour offers easy riding, and you will travel +/- 35 kilometres.
Inclusions:
- Shuttle to Eastwoodhill Arboretum
- Entry into Eastwoodhill Arboretum
- Refreshment at Eastwoodhill
- Vineyard platter
- Wine tasting
- Bike & helmet
More info
What you can add on:
- A guide for the day (Enquiry Only)
- Jeep/walking tour (Enquiry Only)
- Shuttle outside city limits (Enquiry Only)
What to bring
- Comfortable riding clothes & shoes
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- A warm jacket and or raincoat
- Water bottle
Adventure Tips
Wear layered clothing
The weather can shift from cool forest shade to open vineyard sun—bring a warm jacket and raincoat.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses
Exposed cycling sections demand sun protection to keep you comfortable and safe all day.
Stay hydrated
Carry a water bottle to stay refreshed during the arboretum walks and cycling segments.
Use the provided bike helmet
Helmets ensure safety on fast downhill rides like the Ngatapa Hill descent.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- New Zealand fantail (pīwakawaka) frequent in the arboretum
- Occasional sightings of tūī birds singing among native trees
History
Douglas Cook began planting Eastwoodhill in 1945, creating a living library of exotic trees that challenges New Zealand’s flora norms.
Conservation
Eastwoodhill maintains sustainable practices including minimal pesticide use and community education to protect its botanical heritage.
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Adventure Hotspots in Gisborne
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Cycling helmet
Protects your head on downhill and flat cycling sections.
Water bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the day’s physical activity.
Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses)
Necessary for extended sun exposure during vineyard rides.
summer specific
Layered clothing and rain jacket
Allows you to adjust for changing weather conditions and forest shade.
all seasons specific