THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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.
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.
Book with Experience Gisborne
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Experience Gisborne · Gisborne, Gisborne
Experience Gisborne invites adventure seekers to the Eastwoodhill Express, a six-hour supported bike tour showcasing one of New Zealand’s most unique natural assets. Located near the city of Gisborne on the North Island’s rugged east coast, this trip combines immersive arboretum walks with a scenic cycling route through rich pastoral landscapes and renowned vineyards.
The journey begins with a comfortable shuttle from Tairāwhiti Gisborne to Eastwoodhill Arboretum, a sprawling 131-hectare sanctuary established by Douglas Cook. Eastwoodhill boasts the largest and most varied collection of Northern Hemisphere trees found south of the equator, including champion specimens of redwoods, oaks, and maples. Visitors can meander along well-marked trails that suit varying fitness levels, culminating in a climb to Mt Arateitei. From here, panoramic views sweep across the arboretum’s vast canopy and the undulating hills beyond.
After soaking in the botanical diversity and peaceful atmosphere, the tour shifts gears to cycling. Riders will savor an exhilarating descent down Ngatapa Hill, a thrilling downhill segment rewarding riders with speed and stunning vista moments. The ride continues across the expansive Poverty Bay Flats, where fertile soils nurture premium vineyards. The day closes with a visit to a local cellar door offering an expertly curated vineyard platter paired with regional wines, a perfect blend of nature and culture.
This tour suits all skill levels with mostly easy rides covering approximately 35 kilometers. Bikes and helmets are provided, making it accessible and low-stress. The combined experience of forest immersion, dynamic cycling, and wine tasting highlights why Eastwoodhill Express stands out as a compelling outdoor adventure in the Gisborne region. It captures the essence of Tairāwhiti’s diverse landscapes and local heritage in a single, unforgettable itinerary.
easy.
6 hours approx.
Suitable for riders with basic fitness who can handle light cycling and moderate walking.
No prior experience is needed; the ride is mostly easy terrain with gentle grades.
Yes, Experience Gisborne supplies quality bikes and helmets for the entire tour.
Yes, a vineyard platter and wine tasting session are part of the experience.
Currently, standard bikes are provided; inquire with Experience Gisborne for any e-bike options.
The tour runs rain or shine; dress appropriately with waterproof layers.
The cycling route covers around 35 kilometers, including a thrilling downhill.
Douglas Cook began planting Eastwoodhill in 1945, creating a living library of exotic trees that challenges New Zealand’s flora norms.
Eastwoodhill maintains sustainable practices including minimal pesticide use and community education to protect its botanical heritage.
Experience Gisborne is a local tour operator based in Gisborne that presents a range of guided, self-guided and supported experiences across the Tairāwhiti/Gisborne region. The business lists a variety of day experiences including vineyard tours, city sightseeing, scenic rides and combined nature-and-food trips. Offerings named by Experience Gisborne include Eastwoodhill Tour with Vineyard Platter, Bike Hire, Tairawhiti Gisborne City Tour (guided), Tolaga Bay Tour with Lunch, Vineyard Tour (self-guided), Great Taste Tour (self-guided and with lunch), Eastwoodhill Express (supported), Rere Express (supported), Afternoon Wine Tour with Vineyard Platter and Rere Falls & Eastwoodhill Tour with Refreshments. Several options combine food and wine elements such as vineyard platters and lunches alongside visits to regional highlights. Experience Gisborne provides bike hire alongside a variety of tour formats to accommodate self-guided explorers and visitors seeking guided or supported rides. The operator is featured on The Adventure Collective, where the trip names and formats are listed for travellers to compare options and plan itineraries. Prospective guests can review the available trip types and select guided, supported or self-guided formats depending on preference. Listings indicate when refreshments, platters or lunches are included in specific tours. Experience Gisborne focuses on facilitating access to key Gisborne attractions through multiple delivery formats and accessible bike hire options.
Book with Experience Gisborne