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Explore New Zealand’s Timber Trail: Ongarue to Pureora Shuttle Adventure - Ongarue

Explore New Zealand’s Timber Trail: Ongarue to Pureora Shuttle Adventure

Ongaruechallenging

Difficulty

challenging

Duration

4–8 hours

Fitness Level

Riders should have solid endurance and mountain biking experience to manage long climbs and technical descents.

Overview

Discover seamless access to New Zealand’s iconic Timber Trail with the Shuttle Ongarue - Pureora. Ride at your own pace through ancient forests and breathtaking suspension bridges on this rugged 82km route.

Ongarue, Manawatū-Whanganui

Shuttle Ongarue - Pureora

82km Timber Trail | Ride at Your Own Pace | Luggage Transfer Option| From $70pp

Shuttle

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Adventure Photos

Shuttle Ongarue - Pureora photo 1

About This Adventure

Shuttle Ongarue - Pureora

The best way of doing it! We shuttle you to the start, and you ride the Timber Trail back to Ongarue at your own pace.


Rates

Shuttle Only - $70pp Shuttle + Luggage Transfer (includes luggage transfer between Ongarue & Piropiro accommodation Camp Epic, Timber Trail Lodge or DOC Camp) - $80pp

2 Day Hardtail Mountain Bike Hire - $130 2 Day E-Bike Hire - $250

(Please note we do not hire out bikes for completing the entire 82km in 1 day)

Credit card fees additional.


Times

Meet the shuttle at Bennett Rd Carpark in Ongarue before 8.30am. Shuttle departs once everyone is loaded and takes approximately 55-60minutes. If riding over 2 days, each day takes on average 4-6hours (this time includes stops along the way). If riding the whole trail in 1 day (competent mountain bikers only) it takes on average 6-8hours.


About

  • Meet us at our base in Ongarue before 8.30am at Bennett Rd Carpark and we shuttle you and your bikes to Pureora
  • Your luggage is transferred from Ongarue to your accommodation at Piropiro (Camp Epic, Timber Trail Lodge or Piropiro DOC Camp only) and returned the next day.
  • Whether you are taking a leisurely 2-day ride or smashing it out in a day, you finish back where you parked your car
  • So, no deadline to catch a shuttle, no waiting for other groups to finish, no long shuttle after your ride

What to Bring for your Ride

You’ll need appropriate gear to mountain bike in and always bring a jacket in case of wet and/or weather. The weather in Pureora Forest Park is very variable and can change rapidly. If staying overnight on the trail, bring warm clothing for the evening as it can get very cold.

Ensure you have plenty of water and food with you for a full day of riding. Always carry bike spares just in case of a mechanical breakdown such as a spare tube, pump, chain link, multi-tool, etc. Other things to consider bringing with you are sunscreen, first aid kit, PLB (can be hired from some i-sites).

Adventure Tips

Book shuttle in advance

Reserve your seat early during peak season to ensure availability and smooth pick-up.

Wear layered clothing

Weather can change quickly in forested terrain; dress in breathable layers for comfort.

Carry sufficient water

Trail amenities are limited; bring enough water for at least 4-6 hours of riding.

Use a bike with good suspension

The trail includes technical sections and rough terrain that require a sturdy mountain bike.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Kererū (native wood pigeon)
  • North Island brown kiwi

History

The Timber Trail traces historic logging routes in an area significant for pioneering timber extraction and conservation efforts dating back to the 20th century.

Conservation

The trail supports sustainable tourism by promoting low-impact riding and encouraging preservation of native forests in Pureora Forest Park.

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Adventure Hotspots in Ongarue

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Mountain bike with suspension

Essential

Critical for handling rough and variable Timber Trail terrain.

Helmet

Essential

Mandatory safety gear for all riders.

Hydration pack

Essential

Ensures easy access to water during long stretches without facilities.

summer specific

Rain jacket

Useful to stay dry in unpredictable weather common in forested areas.

spring specific